21 Weeks Pregnant
What’s happening this week?
You’re now 21 weeks pregnant. Stretch marks and back pain to name just of few of the symptoms you may start feeling now find out more.
How is my baby developing?
At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby’s growth slows a little to allow for major developments in the central nervous system. Your baby’s skin also continues to mature, as well as the digestive system, which now can contract and relax.
Also this week, your baby’s nail beds have formed, and nails are growing. Nails are soft now, protecting your baby from scratches.
At this stage, you may start noticing that your baby has hiccups, which you can feel as repetitive or rhythmic movements that occur for several minutes.
In cases of twin pregnancies, both babies are now aware of each other’s presence and may even try to kick the other one. You’re 21 weeks pregnant and your baby measures 25 cm and weighs about 360 grams
How is my body changing?
You’re 21 weeks pregnant and your uterus continues to grow. You’re feeling good, but unfortunately, there are a few unpleasant pregnancy 21 weeks symptoms coming your way!
These aren’t so much caused by hormones but by your body reacting to your expanding abdomen and include stretch marks, as your skin stretches; back pain, and varicose veins. You may be also experiencing some problems sleeping, caused by nocturnal leg cramps, restless leg syndrome, and hot flashes.
To help you sleep better, turn on your side, and place a pillow between your legs and another behind your back. Bear in mind that regular exercise can also alleviate most of these symptoms.
Even a brief 15-minute walk will help you sleep better. If you’re already feeling your baby’s movements, soon will be daddy’s turn to feel them when he places his hand on your tummy.
At 21 weeks pregnant your weight gain is roughly 10 to 13 pounds. Remember that every pregnancy is different and you may have gained more or less than this, which is also normal.
The baby blues: what to expect after birth?
Around 80% of women will experience some kind of “baby blues” after delivery. This is normal as hormone levels go back to normal and should subside within a few days or weeks.
You may feel anxiety, fatigue, and irritability or just generally feel down. However, in the more serious and prolonged conditions it becomes a condition called postpartum depression.
Symptoms may include insomnia, crying, lack of interest in your baby, loss of appetite, anxiety, irritability, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts. If you’re having any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.