Week 21: Baby's Movements Get Stronger
Your baby is now about the size of a carrot.
Avg. Length: 26.7 cm
(Crown to Heel)
Your Baby This Week
Your baby's kicks and moves are becoming more coordinated and noticeable. Covered in a soft layer of lanugo and developing the sucking reflex, your little one might even suck their thumb. Baby can now hear noises from outside the womb and is starting to grow hair and eyebrows.
Your Body This Week
Welcome to the second half! As your bump grows, your center of gravity shifts, so you might feel a bit unsteady. Your baby is developing their own sleep schedule, which might not match yours. You'll likely be feeling lots of those little movements now, especially when you're trying to rest.
Tips for Your Partner
This is a great week to feel the baby's kicks! Place a hand on her belly and see if you can feel those little taps. You can even play 'kick-back' by gently tapping in return. Keep talking and listening to your partner about her feelings—open communication is key.
References
[1]
Fetal Development: Week-by-Week Stages of Pregnancy - Cleveland Clinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
[2]
Fetal development: The second trimester - Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20046151
[3]
21 weeks pregnant guide - Best Start in Life - NHShttps://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/2nd-trimester/week-21/