You are in the second half of your pregnancy at 21 weeks pregnant. As your baby grows, your baby has more control over limb movements, which explains why you might be feeling more kicking and stretching going on in there. You may also be feeling the effects of extra fluid in your body.
How many months is 21 weeks?
You’re in your fifth month if you are 21 weeks pregnant. Only 4 months left to go!
Your Baby’s Development at 21 Weeks
At 21 weeks, the baby’s height is approximately 10 inches (25.9 centimeters) from the top of the head to the heel (crown-heel length). The baby weighs around 14 ounces (398 grams). That’s approximately the size of a carrot, and the weight of 5 pitta breads.
Meanwhile, you may soon feel like he’s practicing martial arts as his initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to her activity as you get to know her better.
Your baby has been developing a fine, downy layer of hair called “lanugo” – the purpose of this fur coat is probably to keep your baby at the perfect temperature, and it usually vanishes before the birth.
Your Body at 21 Weeks Pregnant
Stretch marks: At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby might be starting to leave his mark in the form of stretch marks, that is all over your stomach, butt, thighs, hips and breasts. These pink, red, purple, reddish-brown or dark brown streaks appear as your body expands and your tummy and breasts just keep on growing.
21 Weeks Pregnancy Symptoms
Bloating and gas: The increasing pressure your uterus is placing on your rectum can mean that you’re having a hard time containing yourself. Drink plenty of water and eat fiber rich foods to avoid becoming constipated, which makes gassiness worse.
Bleeding gums: If your inflamed, bleeding gums are turning your toothbrush pink, avoid eating sticky candies, especially when you can’t brush afterward.
Spider veins: You may also notice so-called spider veins, particularly on your ankles, legs, or face. They may have a spider- or sunburst-like pattern with little branches radiating from the center, they may look like the branches of a tree.
Swelling: Your belly may not be the only thing getting bigger. Your feet and ankles might be expanding, too. Swollen feet and ankles are often worse:
- At the end of the day
- After standing or sitting for a long time
- When the weather is hot