Week 21: Lung Development
The twenty‑first week is a time of active lung development and respiratory system growth.
Baby size: Carrot (75-80 mm)
Baby development
Little gourmet training its digestion
Your little one is actively preparing for independent feeding. He swallows amniotic fluid daily, which helps develop his intestine. Interestingly, he can already distinguish tastes!
What’s happening this week:
- Digestive system: It can already absorb a small amount of sugar from the amniotic fluid.
- Bone marrow: It becomes the main producer of blood cells, taking over this function from the liver and spleen.
- Movements: The baby has clear periods of sleep and activity.
- Skin: It is still thin and wrinkled, but fat continues to accumulate beneath it.
Your fetus weighs about 360 grams, and its length is nearly 27 centimeters.
Changes for mom
Stretch Marks and Skin Care
As your belly grows, your skin stretches significantly, which can lead to pink or red streaks (stretch marks) on the abdomen, thighs, and breasts. You may also experience skin itching.
What you may notice:
- Stretch marks (striae): Their appearance depends on genetics and skin elasticity, but rapid weight gain can accentuate them.
- Leg cramps: May continue to bother you, especially at night.
- Varicose veins: Increased blood volume and uterine pressure can lead to varicose veins.
- Increased appetite: Your body demands more nutrients for the baby’s growth.
Stretch marks are a common occurrence. To learn how to care for your skin, read the article "Beauty, Care and Style During Pregnancy".
Overview
Week 21: Noticeable Kicks and New Tastes
By the twenty‑first week you are likely no longer just feeling your baby’s movements, but you can distinguish real kicks! Its movements become stronger and more coordinated, and now your partner can also “say hello” to the baby by placing a hand on your belly.
Your fetus is now the size of a large carrot. It is developing actively, and its digestive system is learning to absorb nutrients by swallowing amniotic fluid.
For you this is a period of rapid belly growth and possibly the appearance of stretch marks. You are still full of energy, but it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, as the load on your system increases.
Feeling the first strong kicks is an incredible experience that makes your bond with the baby even stronger. It’s your secret language of communication.
The second trimester continues to be a comfortable period. Learn more about all its features in our detailed overview of the second trimester.
Tips for mom
Skin Moisturizing and Anemia Prevention
Now is a great time to give special attention to skin care and your diet.
What to do:
- Moisturize your skin. Regularly use special creams or oils for pregnant women. This won’t eliminate stretch marks completely, but it will help reduce itching and discomfort.
- Eat iron‑rich foods. To prevent anemia, add red meat, liver, buckwheat, apples and spinach to your diet.
- Wear compression stockings. If you are prone to varicose veins, discuss wearing special hosiery with your doctor.
- Start planning a baby shower. It’s a pleasant party in honor of the upcoming baby, usually organized by friends or family.
A healthy diet is the key to your well‑being. Get inspired by ideas in the article "Balanced Nutrition During Pregnancy".
Tips for partner
First Contact and Shared Joy
This week can give you one of the most unforgettable moments — the chance to feel your baby’s movements.
Your participation in this wonder:
- “Take turns” on the belly. In the evening, when your partner is resting, place your hand on her belly. Be patient — and you will definitely feel a kick.
- Help her with skin care. Offer to give her a belly or back massage with a special oil. It’s both beneficial and very bonding.
- Plan the party together. Help her with the guest list or ideas for the baby shower.
- Support her healthy lifestyle. Cook nutritious meals together, go for walks.
Planning a party in honor of the baby is a fun process. You can get ideas from the article "Baby shower: party ideas".
Checklist
Your Action Plan for Week 21
We continue to enjoy the peak of pregnancy.
- ✅ Purchase a quality skin moisturizer and use it regularly.
- 🥩 Include more iron‑rich foods in your diet.
- 🖐️ Try to “catch” the baby’s movements daily by placing a hand on the belly.
- 🎉 Start compiling a guest list and ideas for the baby shower.
- 👟 Don’t forget daily walks and light physical activity.
- 📚 Learn more about newborn care, for example by reading the article on daily hygienic care.