Pregnancy: Week 21

Pregnancy. There are four months left until childbirth, and it is time to start preparing for this extremely important event — perhaps even by enrolling in special courses.

By the 21st week of pregnancy, many women have gained around 4 kg, and from this point on weight gain usually accelerates. The expectant mother looks radiant: her skin, hair, and nails are pleasing to the eye. In general, well-being at this stage is usually quite good.

What happens at the 21st week of pregnancy

Pregnancy has, so to speak, reached its peak. For now, there is no pronounced fatigue caused by increased strain on the lower back and pelvis; shortness of breath and insomnia are usually not troublesome. However, even during such a comfortable period, a woman may experience certain discomforts. These sensations are often associated not with real physical problems, but rather with increased emotional sensitivity.

At this stage, lower back pain may appear. However, if you avoid sitting in one position for too long and do not maintain uncomfortable postures, the pain usually subsides. Learn to relax and listen to your body. This also applies to sleep. The most correct and comfortable sleeping position is on the right side. There is no need to toss and turn all night — simply prepare yourself to sleep soundly in this position in a dark, well-ventilated room.

The uterus is only about 1 cm above the navel and presses on internal organs. However, this should not cause serious problems. The baby actively moves and pushes, and you can even determine from the outside which part of the abdomen the little one is playing in.

Condition of the fetus at 21 weeks

By the 21st week, the fetus reaches about half of its birth length. However, its weight is still significantly less than at birth — only about 360 grams.

This week, the baby’s digestive system is actively developing. The baby continues to swallow amniotic fluid, thereby training not only the lungs but also the esophagus. Even now, the expectant mother can begin forming healthy eating tendencies for her baby.

The baby’s endocrine glands have started functioning, and at 21 weeks the spleen also begins to play its role. At night, the baby may become very active; to help the baby fall asleep, gently stroke your belly or sing a lullaby. Babies are sensitive to their mother’s voice and emotional state.

Share more maternal affection

A woman increasingly feels herself as a mother, as she can clearly sense her baby. It is important to remember that the process of upbringing begins now: you can and should talk to the “little resident” inside your belly. Speak to the baby gently, softly, sincerely, and with love — the baby feels everything.

Suddenly, issues related to sexual life may concern the expectant mother for the first time. You will need time to adjust to your changing body. Do not become discouraged and do not avoid intimacy with your partner (of course, if there is no abdominal pain and your doctor has not prohibited it). Overcome this delicate period with patience and attentiveness.

Want to eat? Make a schedule

Controlling appetite becomes increasingly difficult. However, do not give free rein to your cravings: even one extra pastry or a glass of soda can become the starting point for rapid weight gain.

If you accustom yourself to a structured routine, you can maintain good physical condition right up to delivery. All you need is a meal schedule: a hearty breakfast, a light second breakfast, a nutritious lunch in moderate portions, a healthy afternoon snack, and a light dinner.

A break from tests

At 21 weeks of pregnancy, special tests, examinations, or ultrasounds are usually not scheduled. The second routine ultrasound has already been completed, and blood and urine tests are typically taken before the ultrasound appointment.

If something worries the expectant mother, the doctor will prescribe individual examinations as needed.

Sensations at 21 weeks of pregnancy

This is the period when a pregnant woman truly blossoms. Weight gain is not yet significant, but the body shape becomes graceful and feminine. The breasts are lifted and full, and the belly is still relatively compact. The skin and hair usually look healthy.

One possible concern is pigmentation spots. However, these changes do not occur in all women, so there is no need to worry in advance. Often, they are barely noticeable to others. At this stage, the expectant mother usually wants to look brighter and more attractive and easily knows how to conceal minor imperfections.