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Your pregnancy at Week 21

Highlights: #

Your Baby at Week 21 #

He's got the moves
Your baby's arms and legs are in proportion, and movements are now more coordinated. The measurement changes from crown-to-rump to crown-to-heel length, which explains the sudden growth.

More blood cells
The bone marrow is now developed enough to produce blood cells in addition to the liver and spleen's efforts.

Baby's drinking
While the placenta remains the primary source of nourishment, your baby now consumes small amounts of amniotic fluid.

Baby's taste buds develop
Your baby swallows amniotic fluid, allowing them to taste different flavors based on what you eat. Researchers suggest that this exposure may influence food preferences after birth.

Baby's getting coordinated
Your baby has better control over limb movements, leading to kicking, stretching, and body surfing (or belly surfing) sensations.

Your Body at Week 21 #

Stretch marks
You might notice pink, red, purple, reddish-brown, or dark brown streaks on your stomach, buttocks, thighs, hips, and breasts as your body expands. These are stretch marks that appear when the supporting tissue under your skin gets torn due to stretching.

Relieving anxiety
As your pregnancy becomes more visible, you may experience ambivalent or anxious feelings. It is normal and healthy to acknowledge these emotions and discuss them with your partner or friends who have had babies.

Pregnancy Symptoms in Week 21 #

Fetal movement
You may start feeling gentle love taps as your baby twists, turns, and kicks in the womb.

Increased appetite
Pregnancy can cause an increased appetite. Carry healthy snacks to ensure you and your baby are nourished throughout the day.

Bloating and gas
Pressure from your uterus on your rectum can lead to bloating and gas. Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods to avoid constipation.

Backaches
Your center of gravity shifts during pregnancy, and the hormone relaxin causes ligaments and joints to stretch, resulting in backaches.

Bleeding gums
Inflamed and bleeding gums are common during pregnancy. Avoid sticky candies and maintain good oral hygiene.

Fast-growing nails
Pregnancy hormones contribute to fast-growing nails and hair.

Things to Take Care in Week 21 #

Unstuff your nose
Stuffy nose is a common pregnancy symptom starting from the second trimester. Try using your thumb to gently blow out one nostril at a time to clear nasal passages.

Elevate your feet
Swollen feet and ankles can be alleviated by sitting and elevating your feet throughout the day.

Slow and steady wins the race
Monitor your weight gain as recommended by your practitioner and make adjustments if necessary.

Walk for 30 minutes a day
Regular exercise, like a brisk walk, can help relieve constipation and other pregnancy symptoms.

Avoid lasers
Skip hair-removal treatments like lasers, electrolysis, and depilatories during pregnancy.

Clear your calendar
Brain fog or "pregnancy brain" is common. Make to-do lists and leave notes for yourself to stay organized.

Limit empty calories
Consume a healthy diet to nourish your baby, but avoid excessive empty calories.

FAQs #

Question: How can I relieve stuffy nose during pregnancy?
Answer: Use your thumb to gently blow out one nostril at a time to clear nasal passages.

Question: How can I reduce swelling in my feet and ankles?
Answer: Sit and elevate your feet throughout the day to alleviate swelling.

Question: Is it normal to feel anxious during pregnancy?
Answer: Yes, it's normal to feel anxious during pregnancy. Discuss your feelings with your partner or friends who have had babies.

Question: Can I use hair-removal treatments during pregnancy?
Answer: It's best to avoid hair-removal treatments like lasers, electrolysis, and depilatories during pregnancy.

Question: How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?
Answer: Monitor your weight gain as recommended by your practitioner, and make adjustments if necessary.