21 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect
Your Baby's Development
At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of an ear of corn, measuring around 10.6 inches long and weighing in at just over a pound. During this week, your baby is getting ready for the big journey, as they start to "practice" breathing motions. As their lungs mature, they will be able to properly breathe in and out of the amniotic fluid while they're still in your uterus.
Your baby's eyes are also developing, and they may even be able to open and close them. Their ears are becoming more sensitive, and they will be able to recognize different sounds, including your voice. This is a great time to start talking to them and reading aloud to them.
Changes for You
At 21 weeks pregnant, your body is continuing to change and prepare for the arrival of your baby. You may start to feel more movements from your baby. As your baby continues to grow, you may also feel increasing pressure on your bladder, which can make it difficult to get a full night's rest.
You may also start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as "false labor". These contractions are usually not painful, but they can be uncomfortable. They can also be a sign that your body is preparing for labor, so it's important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing them.
Your Diet and Exercise Routine
At 21 weeks pregnant, it's important to focus on eating a healthy and balanced diet. This will help to ensure that your baby is getting all the nutrients they need to grow and develop properly. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is a great way to make sure you and your baby are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need.
It's also important to stay active during your pregnancy. This can help to keep your energy levels up and your muscles strong. Swimming and walking are great exercises for pregnant women, but it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
Common Concerns
At 21 weeks pregnant, some common concerns include back pain, constipation, and heartburn. To help ease these symptoms, it's important to stay active, eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of water. You can also talk to your doctor about taking a pregnancy supplement, as well as using a heating pad or taking a warm bath to help ease muscle aches.
It's also important to watch for any signs of preterm labor, including vaginal bleeding, cramping, or abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor right away.
Tips for the Next Week
At 21 weeks pregnant, here are some tips for the next week:
- Continue to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Stay active by walking or swimming.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Take a pregnancy supplement.
- Talk to your doctor about any concerns.
- Watch for signs of preterm labor.
Preparing for Labor
At 21 weeks pregnant, it's also important to start preparing for labor. This includes talking to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have, as well as creating a birth plan. It's also important to start thinking about who you will want to be with you during labor and who will take care of your baby after they are born.
This is also a good time to start taking childbirth classes and learning about the different stages of labor. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can help to make labor and delivery a little less stressful.
Conclusion
At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby is continuing to grow and develop, and your body is continuing to change. It's important to focus on eating a healthy diet and staying active, and to be mindful of any signs of preterm labor. It's also a good time to start preparing for labor and delivery, and to get your questions answered by your doctor.
