Second Trimester · Week 21
21 Weeks Pregnant: A brain growth spurt
Baby development
Your baby at 21 weeks
Your baby is getting bigger fast and may begin having more noticeable patterns of movement. This is also a time of active brain growth, which is a big part of what makes the second half of pregnancy so dynamic.
Your body this week
What you might be feeling at 21 weeks
The anatomy scan is behind you, and you can breathe. Movement is more regular, your bump is visible, and you might be feeling good. Heartburn, constipation, and swelling can start. This is a great time to start birth plan research.
From Shelbi
Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula
The anatomy scan is behind you, and if you're like most moms, you feel like you can finally breathe. This is the week where pregnancy starts to feel almost normal — you're showing, you're feeling movement, and the scary part is mostly behind you. With my fourth, this was the week I started actually enjoying being pregnant. I could eat, I could move, I could sleep (mostly), and the baby was active enough that I never had to wonder if everything was okay. If movements are still inconsistent, that's normal — baby has plenty of room to move around in there, and you won't feel every kick.
For you
This week is about getting through it
Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 21. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.
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Common questions
21 weeks pregnant: your questions answered
What should I expect at 21 weeks pregnant? +
The anatomy scan is behind you, and you can breathe. Movement is more regular, your bump is visible, and you might be feeling good. Heartburn, constip...
Is my baby moving normally at 21 weeks? +
Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.
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