Week 21 of Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide
Congratulations on reaching week 21 of your pregnancy! You’re now in the second trimester, and your baby is growing and developing rapidly. This week, you may start to feel your baby move, and you’ll likely experience a number of other changes as your body prepares for childbirth.
Your Baby’s Development
At 21 weeks, your baby is about the size of a banana. They weigh about 12 ounces and are about 10 inches long. Their head is still disproportionately large, but their body is starting to fill out.
Your baby’s organs are now fully formed, and they’re starting to function on their own. Their lungs are beginning to produce surfactant, which will help them breathe after birth. Their kidneys are also functioning, and they’re producing urine.
Your baby’s hair is starting to grow, and their fingernails and toenails are beginning to harden. They’re also starting to make facial expressions, and they may even be able to suck their thumb.
Your Body
Your uterus is now about the size of a grapefruit. It’s starting to push up on your stomach, which may cause you to feel heartburn or indigestion. You may also experience constipation, as the hormones of pregnancy can slow down your digestion.
Your breasts are also continuing to grow and change. They may be tender or sore, and you may start to leak colostrum, a clear or yellowish fluid that is the precursor to breast milk.
Your weight gain is likely to accelerate this week. You should gain about 1-2 pounds per week for the rest of your pregnancy.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of pregnancy at week 21 include:
- Fetal movement
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Constipation
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Mood swings
- Back pain
- Leg cramps
What to Expect at Your Prenatal Appointment
At your 21-week prenatal appointment, your doctor will likely perform the following:
- Check your weight and blood pressure
- Measure your belly to track your baby’s growth
- Listen to your baby’s heartbeat
- Perform a urine test to check for protein and glucose
- Discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing
- Answer any questions you have
Your doctor may also recommend that you have an ultrasound this week. An ultrasound can provide a detailed view of your baby and can help to rule out any potential problems.
Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy
Here are a few tips for a healthy pregnancy:
- Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Get regular exercise.
- Take a prenatal vitamin.
- Get enough sleep.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
- Manage stress.
- Attend all of your prenatal appointments.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Swelling in your hands, feet, or face
- Difficulty breathing
These symptoms could be a sign of a serious pregnancy complication, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
Conclusion
Week 21 of pregnancy is an exciting time. Your baby is growing and developing rapidly, and you’re likely experiencing a number of changes as your body prepares for childbirth. By following the tips in this article, you can help to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.