Why is it so bad at 21 weeks of gestation. What happens in the female body? Analyzes and examinations

21 weeks pregnant: fetus size - 18 cm, weight - about 300 g. You can become emotionally vulnerable again. The baby develops taste buds and the composition of the blood becomes more complicated. Half of the gestation period for the baby is over. You are at great risk of edema and varicose veins in your legs. Overall, however, you should feel good.

What happens to the baby

When the 21st week of pregnancy "starts", it means that the 19th week has passed from the moment of conception. If you have any questions about the timing,.

Now the main task of the fetus is to grow and gain weight. The kid looks like a little man. In terms of body proportions, he already resembles a newborn child. If your baby is destined to be born with hair on the head, then around this time they appear. Tiny eyebrows and eyelashes are already there, but these are more likely not hairs, but a light fluff. Your child is constantly exercising. According to brain signals, the fetus literally works out those movements that it needs first:

1. Drinking amniotic fluid (up to 0.5 liters per day). This is how the baby trains the lips and swallowing reflexes. The digestive and urinary systems also work in this case.
2. Limb movements. Coordination will not come very soon, but a start has been made.
3. Raising and lowering the chest. Immediately after giving birth, the baby will have to urgently, in a split second, learn to breathe with lungs.

This week the fruit will grow up to a length of 18 cm. Its weight will reach about three hundred grams. Remember, your little one is already hearing, so talk to him.

You probably already feel the movement of the fetus. Sometimes it seems to you that the baby under your heart is only doing what moves. Is he not sleeping at all? This is not true. Remember that both children and adults are rarely completely still in their sleep. And the fetus is exactly the same. Some experts believe that at this time, children in the womb spend up to twenty hours a day in a sleepy state. According to other sources - 12-14 hours. And the arms and legs continue to move anyway. Movements can be felt up to two hundred times a day.

What's new with the baby? The improvement of blood composition continues. The red bodies have long been formed, and the white ones are in the process. They will later, together with other systems, be responsible for the child's immunity. And on a tiny tongue, taste buds continue to form. When amniotic fluid enters the fetus's mouth, it is already able to distinguish its taste.

How does the baby sit in the uterus? As he wants. Now is not the time to talk about the right or wrong position of the fetus. There is enough room for the crumbs to spin in all directions for a few more weeks.

How is mom doing?

21st week - what month is it? The sixth lunar. You have passed about half of your pregnancy. You now have some or even many of these symptoms:

• generally excellent health;
• the tummy has grown noticeably, but still does not interfere;
• gait has changed - you lean back a little and, perhaps, waddle slightly;
• you have an excellent appetite (be careful not to overeat);
• in rare cases, you can see a tiny bump on your belly at the moment the baby moves, perhaps it is his fist or heel;
• you are often hot or stuffy;
• it is worth a little step back from the diet - hello, heartburn or constipation;
• the nose periodically clogs up, although there is no real runny nose or cold;
• you are not just tired - sometimes weakness literally falls on you, especially when your blood pressure drops;
• sometimes you want to eat something "like", unusual;
• since the beginning of pregnancy, the weight has increased by 4-8 kg.

It's all physical sensations... Emotionally, many expectant mothers now note one oddity. They lose interest in what they were fond of before, they feel unnecessary, their self-confidence disappears somewhere. This is how the next round of hormonal changes in the body manifests itself. Don't panic, don't be depressed, chat with family and friends, look for new hobbies. This period emotional instability will soon pass.

Photo of tummies (click to enlarge):

Possible troubles and complications

Stretch marks. Your body is changing: your tummy is getting rounder and bigger, your chest is filling, your hips are slightly apart. All this is reflected in the skin of these parts of the body. If it's elastic enough, it's okay. Stretch marks may appear if you gain weight quickly or have skin problems. They spoil the look of your skin and your mood. Do not allow this situation. Use special creams, lotions, or simply olive oil ().

Pregnant mask - a specific property of the facial skin. it dark spots on the forehead, cheeks and chin. They cannot be removed, bleached. A layer of makeup might solve the problem, but won't it hurt you in general? Better to protect your face from sunlight.

Legs swell and swell. In the evenings, your legs may simply "buzz" and swell, the rings almost cut into your fingers, and your face seems puffy. What do we have to do:

• Do not eat something after which you may be very thirsty: salty, spicy, too sweet.
• Wipe your face with a wedge of cucumber or frozen cucumber juice. If using the second method, do not hold the ice for a long time near the sinuses.
• When sitting or lying down, keep your legs as high as possible. Lay them on a stool, pouf, pillow.
• Don't wear any embarrassing clothing or accessories. It is impossible that straps, ribbons, belts and elastic bands press not only on the stomach, but anywhere else.

If such swelling quickly disappears after simple measures, there is nothing to worry about. Persistent edema may indicate late toxicosis. What is this condition,.

On the legs, you may notice dilated vessels. It is more likely if your female relatives - mother, grandmother, and so on - suffer from varicose veins in the legs. To protect your legs from problems, you can buy compression socks, knee-highs or tights - according to the season.

Note to moms!

Hello girls) I didn't think that the problem of stretch marks would touch me, but I will also write about it))) But there is nowhere to go, so I am writing here: How did I get rid of stretch marks after childbirth? I will be very glad if my method will help you too ...

Leg cramps. Leg cramps cause a lot of trouble. They are easy to deal with if it happened at home. And if at work, on the road or in the swimming pool? Remember exactly what to do. If possible, you need to pull back on yourself thumb injured leg. You can grind the shin, foot. Tell your doctor about seizures. Most likely, you lack calcium and potassium (which means dried apricots and dairy products will help).

Headaches. Previously, this problem was solved easily: with one pill intake. Now you cannot take practically any medicine, so you will have to fight the pain differently:

• lie down, preferably in darkness and silence;
• take some baby cream, add a drop essential oil eucalyptus, rub this mixture on the temples and the cavity near the ear tragus;
• rub your feet, especially around the toes and their bases.

Mild pain in the navel, lower back talk about the gradual stretching and movement of internal organs under the pressure of the uterus. This is the norm. But if the stomach hurts badly, real contractions are felt, the threat of miscarriage is possible.

Allocations

Your breasts are preparing for future feeds and producing colostrum. You cannot express it. Place a pad in each bra and replace it regularly.

White or clear mucus without a strong odor may be released from the vagina. Yellow, greenish, brown or bloody discharge indicate various disorders, urgently see a doctor.

If your laundry seems to get wet, leakage is not excluded amniotic fluid... This is a dangerous process, inform your doctor and get tested.

Discharge of blood during bowel movements is a sign of beginning hemorrhoids. Women with constipation are often affected by this disease. Discuss treatment and follow-up with your doctor.

See your doctor

If you have not yet had an ultrasound in the second trimester, he will be appointed. A specialist doctor will check the basic dimensions of the body and limbs of the fetus, the condition of the internal organs and a number of other indicators. The placenta will be examined no less carefully.

Photo of ultrasound at 21 weeks (click to enlarge):

With a successful location of the fetus, you can find out the gender of the baby. But the future boy or girl can sometimes "hide" until the very birth.

To the doctor antenatal clinic you need to come according to the schedule that he drew up for you. Everything is familiar here: measuring weight, blood pressure, size of the uterus and listening to your baby's heartbeat.

You are on the verge of the sixth month of pregnancy, which belongs to the most prosperous period - the second trimester. 21 weeks of gestation is a relatively calm time, the tummy has not yet grown enough to restrict your movements, and toxicosis, as a rule, does not bother at this stage.

At 21 weeks of gestation, what happens to the baby is easy to find out. Just at this time, a planned ultrasound is most often carried out, in addition, tactile contact with the child, through jolts, will also give you an idea of \u200b\u200bhis well-being and mood.

Baby development at 21 weeks

1. Your child has gained weight by 21 weeks: the standard weight is around 360 grams, while the baby's height is 26-27 cm;
2. Please note that from week 20, growth is measured along the entire length of the body, and not, as before, from the crown to the tailbone. Such sizes still allow the fetus at 21 weeks of gestation to actively move in the tummy, which you clearly feel;
3. The strength of the jerks increases somewhat, the child's skeletal system just got stronger, and he actively pushes off or pounds on the walls with his fists;
4. The child's nutritional activity only increases, he often swallows amniotic fluid with useful substances that have entered it, the fluid is excreted from his body when he pees, but undigested microscopic particles are deposited in the intestines and form feces;
5. Just imagine that the child already knows the tastes, so he might get angry if you eat something sour or bitter (current article on nutrition during this period: What not to eat during pregnancy ?>>>);
6. Enzymes and gastric juice are already present in the baby's gastrointestinal tract, albeit in minimal doses;
7. At the 21st week of pregnancy, the spleen is included in the work (learn about how the baby grows and develops throughout pregnancy from the article Child development in the womb >>>);
8. At 21 weeks of gestation, the development of the fetus is aimed at improving the work of internal organs, so the endocrine and immune systems are actively involved in the work, and the lungs develop.

Mom's well-being

Your well-being and feelings at the 21st week of pregnancy are characterized positively, both in terms of physical and psychological. This is the perfect time to get ready at home for meeting your baby and shopping for the necessary things, unless, of course, you are superstitious (for what exactly you need to take, read the article: What to buy for a newborn for the first time ? \u003e\u003e\u003e). Your tummy is noticeable, but does not constrain your movements too much.

Uterus size

Your child needs space to grow and develop actively, and your body does a great job of it. The uterus at 21 weeks of gestation is felt at the level of the navel, or even a centimeter above it.

The total height of the uterus is 21 cm. And if the baby is spacious in such a house, then for you these parameters are fraught with squeezing of internal organs, problems with urination or heartburn. Don't worry, all of these symptoms are temporary.

Pain at week 21

You may experience some soreness at 21 weeks of gestation. It's time to decide which of them are considered the norm, and which signal about dangerous conditions:

• Lower abdominal pain. Unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen can be a consequence of the growth of the uterus and the preparation of the pelvis for the birth process. It is important to ensure that the pain does not turn into acute and is not accompanied by bloody discharge, since in this case it is a signal of the threat of termination of pregnancy. When the stomach hurts at the 21st week of pregnancy, the help of a specialist is needed;

• Chest pain. You may feel pain when touching the breasts, and this is not surprising, they increase in size, fill up, the first colostrum is already secreted from the mammary glands (read on: When the chest starts to hurt during pregnancy ?>>>).
• Back pain. These sensations most often appear after a long walk or being in a static position. Pain can occur due to a shift in the center of gravity and tilt forward, when wearing uncomfortable shoes, or sitting for a long time. Don't forget to rest;
• Pain in the navel area. You may feel sharp or throbbing pains in the navel, they are caused by the internal pressure of the uterus, the bottom of which is just at this level at 21 weeks of pregnancy;
• Pain in the legs. You may feel heaviness and pain in your legs, cramps, your weight gain and swelling, especially if you have been on your feet all day. Convulsions occur with vitamin deficiency, you may need to take a vitamin complex or balance your diet;

How to do it safely and get the most benefit, I talk about in the book Secrets of proper nutrition for the expectant mother >>>.

• Headaches. Dizziness in the morning or when jumping up suddenly is common in the middle of pregnancy. Your circulatory system is working in an enhanced mode, and it does not need additional loads. Migraines can occur, especially if you are anxious. You need to rest, drink warm mint tea and take a walk in the fresh air.

Any painful sensations can be alleviated or reduced to zero using massages, water proceduresusing special supporting bandages.

Bleeding. Allocations

Standard normal discharge at 21 weeks of gestation is characterized as clear, moderate, and odorless. All others will indicate specific problems:

1. The curd consistency of the discharge, accompanied by itching or burning, indicates infection with Candida class mushrooms or thrush (read on: Thrush during pregnancy >>>).
2. Abundant opaque discharge with yellow or green purulent clots is a signal of an inflammatory process, consult a doctor;
3. Brown discharge at 21 weeks of gestation is nothing more than a blotch of blood. In small quantities, spotting is possible with erosion of the cervix. If the discharge is abundant, while the stomach is strongly pulling at 21 weeks of gestation, then there is a threat of miscarriage or a frozen pregnancy.

Please note that bloody marks on your underwear can appear due to constipation or inflammation of hemorrhoids.

Feeling at week 21

At the start of the 21st week of pregnancy, what happens to your mother is felt by your baby. And his mood is understandable by the tremors, which in this period are becoming stronger and more noticeable. From light tickling to persistent buzzing, these are the results of your tete-a-tete with your child.

• Surely you have noticed that the peak of the child's activity and movement at 21 weeks of pregnancy begins in the evening. Try to calm the boy down, sing him a lullaby, or just stroke his belly. In total, the child spends only 4 hours in an active state, and when you lie down, these movements are most noticeable;
• The belly at the 21st week of pregnancy gradually increases, and the waist circumference becomes more and more, accurate measurements are an individual matter, they depend on the weight of the mother and baby, heredity also plays a role. But even small sizes are already becoming the cause of insomnia, since it is difficult to find a comfortable position for rest;

• At 21 weeks pregnant, you constantly feel the urge to use the toilet, and this is not surprising given the pressure of the uterus on bladder... Remember to visit the ladies' room more often, and it is good to lean forward a little to completely empty the urea. In addition, adjust the amount of fluid you drink at night, then nothing will interfere with your sleep;
• The unpleasant symptoms of 21 weeks include shortness of breath and heartburn. But you can fight them - with proper breathing, which will be useful to you during childbirth and fractional nutrition (what other ways can help alleviate the condition with heartburn, learn from the article Remedy for heartburn during pregnancy >>>);
• Another feature of this period is the increased rate of hair and nail growth. Please note that their condition has become better, the skin is cleaner, this is due to the change in hormonal levels;
• At 21 weeks of gestation, an increase in appetite can also be noted. Firstly, the baby requires more from you, in addition, your body needs vitamins and microelements. Eat enough, but low-calorie food, so that your scales do not upset you.

Narrow questions of pregnancy

You need to remember that now you are responsible not only for yourself and your health, but also for your baby under your heart. Diseases and colds are especially dangerous.

Temperature

Given your condition, it is not logical to expect the traditional 36.6 on a thermometer, constant hormonal and physical changes affect your body temperature, often setting it at 37 and 37.5 degrees.

Colds at 21 weeks pregnant

Although the second trimester is considered the most prosperous in terms of protecting the baby from external irritants and viruses, do not forget that at 21 weeks of pregnancy, what happens to the mother is reflected in the child. Believe me, if your head breaks and your body aches with a cold, your baby will also suffer.

The main risks for colds:

1. A high fever at 21 weeks of gestation, a spasmodic cough can cause placental abruption or bleeding;
2. Dehydration, which accompanies most diseases, can cause constipation, metabolic disorders (more about constipation during pregnancy >>>);
3. Limited list drugs does not allow taking drastic measures during treatment, therefore, the healing process is often delayed (about what can be treated, read the article Cold during pregnancy >>>);
4. Violation of the thermal regime at elevated temperature can cause the baby to overheat.

During pregnancy, will become relevant folk remedies and heavy drinking, medicines, even with the conditional permission of some, it is better to refuse.

Sex

Sex at the 21st week of pregnancy is allowed and encouraged, but with certain reservations: the choice of sparing positions, shallow penetration, personal hygiene.

Alcohol at 21 weeks

It's not hard to guess that everything bad habits during pregnancy in the taboo zone. As for alcohol, pouring a glass for yourself, you give this drink to the baby. Alcohol easily enters the child's body, poisoning it from the inside, loading the still immature kidneys and liver.

You may be recommended red wine, like good remedy to raise hemoglobin. The drink may help you in the fight against anemia, but at the same time it will flush out a lot of useful substances from the body. In addition, industrial alcohol contains a lot of preservatives and dyes that are very difficult for your liver to deal with.

Examination of mom and baby

In the second trimester, namely, this period includes 21 weeks of pregnancy, you are offered to visit the gynecology at least once a month. At the reception, the height of the uterus is measured, the specialist listens to the baby's heartbeat, asks a question about the frequency of movements.

By the way, you can ask, at the period of 21 weeks of pregnancy, how often the baby should move. See for yourself: he sleeps about 20 hours a day, therefore, 4 hours communicates with you.

A specialist may examine you in a chair. He will be interested in the condition of the vagina and cervix. During pregnancy 21 weeks, untreated diseases may worsen, so gentle therapy may be needed.

By this time, you may already have the results of the second screening for congenital abnormalities. Whatever the result, don't jump to conclusions. It is important to take into account age, weight, week of pregnancy, number of fetuses, heredity. Without ultrasound results, the numbers on paper will not show you anything.

Baby condition

The first question that worries all pregnant women on ultrasound is who is there? Indeed, the gender at 21 weeks of gestation can be determined, unless the baby is shyly covered with his hands.

During the examination, measurements are taken:

• So at 21 weeks of gestation, the size of the fetus will be 26 cm, measured from the crown to the heels;
• The Uzist will examine all the internal organs of the baby, correlate their sizes with the tabular standards;
• Another exciting moment - you will hear the baby's heart beating. The norm is considered to be up to 170 beats per minute.

During the study, you can see how your baby swallows water or sucks a finger, or maybe he, just at this moment, will perform acrobatic numbers. You can ask a specialist to take a photo for you.

Placenta condition and presentation

During an ultrasound, the placenta fixation to the uterus is determined. Ideally, it is mounted in the middle of the back wall. When the placenta is low, closer to the pharynx of the uterus, there are threats of termination of pregnancy.

Another parameter that worries a specialist is fetal presentation. At the 21st week of pregnancy, even if the baby is lying with its bottom down, this is not considered critical. The child is mobile at this stage and can roll over several more times.

There is such a term as the age of the placenta. The placenta at 21 weeks gestation should be at maturity stage 0, that is, in the process of growing. Its surface is uniform, and it should remain so for up to 30 weeks. 1 and further stages indicate an excessive load on the placenta, such may be the illness of a pregnant woman or bad habits.

Water quantity

During ultrasound, the amount of water and their transparency are determined. Measurements are made of the baby's distance to the walls of the placenta, and the estimated volume of amniotic fluid is calculated.

Lifestyle at 21 weeks pregnant

In trend, especially during pregnancy, healthy image life. If you have been actively involved in sports, do not rush to give up exercise. There is always an alternative - this is fitness for pregnant women, swimming. It's time to enroll in childbirth preparation school, do not forget to bring your partner with you.

Don't forget to take some rest, even if you're still at work. Take five minutes to get some fresh air or walk down the hallway.

21 weeks of pregnancy is not a time for stress, watch only positive programs and films, walk more often in the park, visit museums and theaters.

Food

Your weight and the health of yours and your baby depend on your nutrition. So that extra pounds do not frighten you at weighing, remove quickly digestible fats and carbohydrates, pastries and sweets from the diet. Please note that the weight rate at 21 weeks of gestation is plus 6-7 kg of your original weight.

1. Vegetables and fruits should be the mainstay of your diet. If you notice increased gas production after eating fruits or vegetables, take them away for a while or take them cooked. Read the article to find out what fruits are good for pregnancy ?>>>;
2. Proteins must be on the table, you can replace animals with vegetable ones;
3. Calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, iodine, folic acid, vitamin C - all these trace elements you really need, you will find them all in the same vegetables and fruits;
4. Please note that you need to drink enough water. You can green tea and even coffee, but without sugar. By the way, so that the liquid does not linger in the body, reduce the use of salt to zero;
5. In the taboo zone: smoked meats, canned food, fried and salty foods, dried fish or meat, animal products without heat treatment.

• Help relieve stress and fatigue cold and hot shower, especially since baths and saunas at week 21 are contraindicated;
• Don't forget about your skin: it needs extra care and hydration. You can lubricate the skin of the abdomen with baby oil, this is a good prevention of stretch marks. Read more in the article Stretch marks during pregnancy >>>;
• Your clothes should be made of natural fabrics and loose fit, shoes are comfortable and without heels;
• When you go outside, bring along a light snack and water.

And remember that you are now in the golden mean, rest, walk, and be healthy!

21 weeks pregnant - how many months?

Hurry up to enjoy your pregnancy, remember every moment of it, keep a pregnancy diary, because week after week it will move to the end and will never happen again. Already half way behind - 5 obstetric months. The 21st week of pregnancy has come - the first week of the sixth month has gone, which is considered the best and calmest. Try to finish your business, to be in time for everything planned, because the larger your tummy becomes, the harder it will be to bear the baby, and he is growing by leaps and bounds! True, at week 21, the pace temporarily slows down.

Fetus (development, size, sex of the child)

Starting from the 20th week of pregnancy, the growth of the fetus is already determined from the crown to the heels, and at 21 weeks it is approximately 26.7 cm.Your baby now weighs an average of 360 g. He is recovering, growing, moving a lot and forming the first fat layer, therefore requires more and more resources for its development.

At 21 weeks, the digestive system of the fetus is especially active. He constantly swallows amniotic fluid, training not only the lungs, but also preparing his esophagus for future work and providing himself with the necessary substances. Thus, the child's body "takes" water, sugar and other nutrients in it from the amniotic fluid. The taste of this first "meal" of his directly depends on the diet and lifestyle of the mother. So already now you can form an addiction to healthy wholesome food in your baby. Remember that alcohol and tobacco smoke generously spice up the amniotic fluid.

Enzymes and hydrochloric acid, which are produced in very small quantities, help a small body to digest the first food.

The bone and muscle tissue of the fetus will strengthen and grow more and more every week. By this time, the child's endocrine glands are already actively working, and from the 21st week the spleen also joins them.

Despite its rapid growth, the baby feels quite at ease in his mother's tummy. There is still enough room for some rolls and other tricks, and he really likes to be active. Most likely, you have already experienced the joy of the first movements, because the bones of the fetus are already strong enough, and it constantly hits the walls of the uterus, giving you signals from the inside. Listen to them, at 21 weeks the child already reacts and responds to touches, sounds, mother's mood. If the gender of the child is not yet known to you, address him somehow universally, but always with warmth and love - he feels it.

The baby's movements can become more active at night when the mother wants to rest. Try to calm the mischievous person the way you would with a newborn: sing a lullaby, pet him.

Belly at 21 weeks pregnant

The belly at the 21st week of pregnancy no longer only demonstrates to others your special position, but can also reflect the state of its inhabitant. For an outsider's eye, movements and movements of the fetus become noticeable, sometimes you can determine in which side your little one "hid" or what he exhibited for general viewing this time: the ass or the leg.

Sometimes the blows become already tangible in their strength, the stomach can ache due to the tension of the muscles holding the uterus, which is growing all the time, conquering space for its inhabitant.

Uterus

The uterus squeezes more and more internal organs, and the mother is forced to endure all the consequences of this inevitable process. At the 21st week of pregnancy, due to the support of the uterus of the lungs, she may feel shortness of breath, sometimes it becomes impossible to take a deep breath and exhale. Don't worry, it's better to start mastering breathing techniques, which will be very useful later in labor.

The uterus already rises above the navel - at the level of 1 cm, and the height of the uterine fundus is at the level of 21 cm from the pubis.

Pain

Pains associated with the growth of the uterus do not pose any threat, but if you feel a pronounced pulling or cramping pain in the lower abdomen, radiating to the lower back, then do not leave it unattended. Perhaps this is a harbinger of an increased uterine tone, which is very undesirable.

At the 21st week of pregnancy, a wide variety of pains may appear that annoy pregnant women at this time. These are pain in the navel, pain in the lower back and back, pain in the sacrum, pain in the legs. The uterus presses on the navel from the inside, puts pressure on the pelvic region, under the influence of the increasing weight, the spine, lower back and knee joints are under increasing stress. The child draws all the calcium out of the mother, which can cause cramps in the calf muscles. In general, there are more than enough reasons for pain during pregnancy, but you can greatly alleviate your condition if you follow some tips:

Sensations (movements) at 21 weeks of gestation

Gradually, you will begin to pester other delights of pregnancy, different from those that you experienced in the first trimester. In addition to shortness of breath and increasing heaviness in the abdomen, this is mainly insomnia. The uterus presses on the bladder and forces you to use the toilet several times a night. Try to limit your fluid intake after 6 p.m. and bend forward to empty your bladder as you empty your bladder.

It will not be easy to find comfortable sleeping positions and will take some time. To make the process of adaptation to a big tummy go as smoothly as possible, we recommend using a pillow for pregnant women, which will be very useful for you during breastfeeding.

Colostrum may already be secreted from the breast - the glands are preparing to feed the baby. Practice good hygiene and never squeeze milk out of your breast.

Allocations

Discharge can also be observed from the vagina. Normal discharge at 21 weeks of gestation is liquid, transparent, does not smell anything and does not leave color marks on the laundry. If your discharge differs from these (have a pronounced color or smell, as well as a thick "suspicious" consistency), then you need to take a smear for analysis. Very often during pregnancy, thrush worsens - it must be cured before the onset of childbirth.

Bloody marks on the laundry can be the result of hemorrhoids or severe constipation. If the blood comes from the vagina, then it is necessary to urgently call ambulance.

Sex

Only with poor health and the threat of termination of pregnancy, sex can be contraindicated. But since at 21 weeks a woman in most cases feels great, and there are no threats to bearing during this period, then you need to enjoy this time! There is no reason to reduce any activity, including sexual. However, reasonable caution and caution still do not hurt. It is better to give up physically difficult positions, rough sex and very deep penetration. However, listen to your body - it will tell you everything. And don't worry about the child - pleasant emotions and sensations will only benefit him!

Ultrasound

If your pregnancy was going well, then at 21 weeks only the second ultrasound for the entire period can be performed. But if there were more of them, then you should not worry: modern equipment does not have a harmful effect on a woman and her unborn baby.

On ultrasound at 21 weeks, you can see the sex of the child, if the angle allows. The main organs of the fetus are clearly visible, which the uzist will diagnose for possible pathologies. An assessment of the heartbeat, physical activity, the size of the fetus and uterus, the state of myotmetry and amniotic fluid, the development of pregnancy in general will be given. If the ultrasound is carried out in 3d or 4d format, then you can see everything very clearly yourself. And even agree on the first photo or video of the child, which will begin his life chronicle.

Tests at 21 weeks of gestation

At 21 weeks of gestation, you will probably get your screening test results. But do not rush to evaluate them yourself. This is done using a special program that combines the indicators of all markers (hCG, AFP, and free estriol) into one picture. This condition is mandatory - each of them should not be evaluated separately.

In addition, the woman's age, weight, health status, heredity, number of fetuses and other factors are taken into account.

The end result of the screening looks like a risk value. The threshold is 1: 350. Women with this result and below are considered to be at low risk. The high risk is estimated at 1: 250 and higher, that is, one woman in 250 with such a result will have a sick child. We would like to note that screening can only suggest a low or high risk of developing hereditary diseases in a child. Unfortunately, these screenings are not always carried out correctly in our country, so they are rather low informative.

With regard to other analyzes. Now you need to visit your gynecologist once a month. But if the pregnancy is proceeding with complications, then, of course, he will direct you to the delivery of control tests.

Food

Carrying a healthy baby will help healthy eating during pregnancy. All previous recommendations remain valid: be sure to have protein every day, boiled instead of fried is better, spicy and smoked - on very big holidays and a little, we keep salt and sugar under control. If you suffer from heartburn, then by all means eat fractionally. Constipation and swelling also depend a lot on your diet. Also remember that the little gourmet's taste preferences are being formed right now - instill in him a love for healthy food.

Don't forget about calcium, but focus on plant sources. But additionally in the form of tablets, it can be taken only as directed by a doctor.

The weight

You will feel that your appetite has begun to increase. The baby accumulates subcutaneous fat, needs large amounts of resources that the mother must provide. Eat wholesome, varied, and adequate, but don't overeat. Watch for weight gain. Now you can afford to recruit 300 a week. From the beginning of pregnancy to 21 weeks, you could gain a maximum of 6.5 kg. However, this is very individual.

At 21 weeks, the sixth month of pregnancy begins. At this time, the expectant mother already feels the first movements. All organs of the baby are clearly formed, but their work is not yet well-adjusted. Today we will tell you how the fetus develops at 21 weeks of gestation and what happens to the mother during this period of bearing the baby.

What's new at 21 weeks pregnant?

As stated earlier, this is the 6th month of pregnancy. And this time in the second trimester is rightfully considered the quietest stage of waiting for the baby. The development of pregnancy at 21 weeks does not differ dramatically from the previous weeks, the only important difference is a noticeable increase in the mother's weight. The adipose tissue of the fetus increases, and the woman's weight grows in position. At this stage, many pregnant women have an increased appetite.

• The period of laying the internal organs of the baby has ended - and although there is still a lot of work ahead for the development of the formed, all organs and systems of the fetus have grown stronger and are preparing to start working. The danger that the simplest infections can cause serious problems in the development of the child is over.
• Pregnancy becomes more noticeable- the uterus has gone beyond the pelvis. The belly has increased at 21 weeks and looks like a small "slide". The expectant mother becomes uncomfortable sleeping on her side and back. The lungs are already a little constrained by the grown uterus, so shortness of breath may appear.
• The gender of the baby will be determined- exactly for 6 months it becomes clear to parents who they are waiting for - a boy or a girl. An ultrasound study, which must be completed at 21-22 weeks, will show the grown child in all its glory and reveal his gender.
• Milk may appear- under the influence of hormones, colostrum may begin to be secreted from the breast, which is completely normal. This is the predecessor of the mature breast milkthat will come after childbirth. The skin of the areola becomes darker, the woman's mammary glands increase in size.
• It's time to wear a bandage - Doctors advise wearing a support band when the twenty-first week begins. It will give some stability when walking (with the growth of the uterus, the center of gravity shifts forward), will support the enlarging abdomen, preventing the appearance of stretch marks and preventing the threat of termination of pregnancy.

Fetal development at 21 weeks: highlights

21 obstetric week is only the 19th embryonic week. The fetus at this time is actively growing and gaining weight, these are two of its main tasks. Now future baby looks like a miniature man, the size of the fetus in length from crown to heels is 27 cm, and the weight is about 380 g. By medical standards, by the beginning of the next 22 weeks of pregnancy, the baby in the womb already has a chance of surviving premature birth.

What does a baby eat at 21 weeks of gestation?

By the sixth month, the placenta is formed - an organ through which oxygen and nutrients are supplied from mother to child. Also, metabolic products spent by the fetal body pass through the placenta. In addition, this special organ produces hormones and does not allow substances that can harm him (for example, infectious agents) to the baby.

With the help of ultrasound, the doctor monitors the condition of the placenta, namely:

1. its thickness;
2. location;
3. sizes;
4. degree of maturity, etc.

Important! The development and condition of the baby depends on how the placenta works. Her appearance and structural features are able to show how the baby grows and what awaits him until the end of pregnancy.

What happens to a baby in the sixth month of pregnancy?

A) The appearance of a light cannon on the head

At about 20-21 weeks, fine hairs begin to cover the surface of the head, and eyelashes and eyebrows also form.

B) Development of the motor system

The fetus still makes chaotic movements, but is learning to control them with great success. Sleep phases this week alternate with activity phases, the number of which can reach 12-15 per day.

C) Swallowing amniotic fluid

The tiny baby in the womb gradually learns sucking movements and exercises the muscles of the mouth by drinking up to 500 ml of amniotic fluid per day. This stimulates the work of the most important systems of the fetus's body: the digestive and urinary.

D) Lung maturation

In the event of a sudden departure from the mother's womb, the first thing a child will need for life is the ability to breathe through the lungs. From this time on, brain signals instruct the fetus to work out the movements of the chest (raising-lowering).

The main changes in the development of the fetus at this time:

• the child's skin is no longer thin and transparent, the formation of subcutaneous fat begins;
• the baby's taste buds begin to work - the fetus is already able to distinguish between sweet and bitter tastes;
• swallowed amniotic fluid stimulates the development of the gastrointestinal tract, meconium (original feces) is formed;
• is improving the immune system fetus, leukocytes that have arisen in blood cells can now fight infections;
• in the second trimester, the rudiments of milk teeth begin to form;
• the brain develops at an accelerated rate;
• the endings of the nervous system are improved;
• the endocrine glands begin to do their job.

All about 21 weeks pregnant (video):

Changes in the body of the expectant mother at week 21

21 weeks - how many months is it? Considering in obstetric weeks, this is the sixth lunar month or exactly half of the period of bearing a child. So, let's look at a brief chronicle of events, what happens to the expectant mother in the 6th month of pregnancy.

Weight gain

The weight of a pregnant woman by this time begins to increase at an active pace. Normally, she should add about 250 g per week. This is usually not difficult, since in the second trimester, appetite grows, the body goes on to gain the pounds necessary for the development of pregnancy. Unexplained taste preferences appear.

Uterus growth

The main female organ continues to develop and grow. By week 21, the upper edge of the uterus is above the navel by an average of 1.25 cm. It becomes impossible to hide the appearance of the tummy from others - it has become rounded and clearly visible even under loose clothing. The pressure of the uterus on the lungs can make breathing difficult, and it is difficult to breathe deeply. It's time to start mastering breathing exercises with the help of video tutorials or courses for expectant mothers.

Hormonal adjustment

The emotional state of a pregnant woman is generally stable at this time, but many notice tides of panic, blues, and loss of self-confidence. The instability is caused by a small hormonal "explosion" in the body, so you shouldn't worry - this period will not last long, and will pass by the third trimester.

Signs typical of pregnant women at week 21:

• the gait changes - it is no longer possible to walk smoothly, the body spontaneously takes a comfortable position for a step, slightly bending the back back and waddling when walking;
• often there is not enough air, the feeling of stuffiness does not leave the room, it feels almost always hot;
• with indulgences in proper nutrition and use harmful products heartburn comes, stool changes (frequent constipation);
• blood pressure decreases, there is increased weakness and fatigue;
• excellent appetite makes itself felt at the most unexpected moment, sometimes it is impossible to get enough and you want to eat for two, right up to overeating.

Stirring in the 6th month of pregnancy

At the current time, the expectant mother is experiencing positive emotions from the movements of her baby. They feel quite bright and clear, while not delivering painful sensations, which can be observed in the later weeks of pregnancy.

• A pregnant woman should be attentive to what is happening inside her from 18 to 22 weeks, especially if she is going to become a mother for the first time. It is during this period that the first stirring should occur.
• With a clear sensation of the child's movement, it is necessary to remember the date and inform your gynecologist at the next scheduled visit - this indicator is entered into the exchange card and serves as a guideline for calculating the upcoming date of birth.
• From time to time in the 21st week of pregnancy, when the baby moves, painless sensations of tension in the uterus may occur. They are short (up to 2 minutes), but frequent (up to 15 times a day). These are the so-called training contractions, or Braxton Hicks contractions, arising from the growth of the uterus. They are not dangerous for the mother and child, and quickly pass if the expectant mother lies on her side a little.

Advice! If the tension in the uterus is painful (as if the lower abdomen "pulls", as with menstruation) and continues even during rest, then you should definitely consult a doctor.

Ultrasound and tests at week 21 - what to prepare for?

An obstetrician-gynecologist, starting from 6 months, examines the expectant mother every 3-4 weeks. At the reception, the manipulations necessary to assess the course of pregnancy are carried out:

1. weighing;
2. blood pressure measurement;
3. listening to the fetal heartbeat;
4. measuring the height of the fundus of the uterus.

In addition to the appointments of her doctor, the pregnant woman is given a bypass sheet for this period, which includes examinations of a wide range of specialists: an otolaryngologist, ophthalmologist, therapist and dentist. Also, by the 21st week, a woman needs to undergo clinical blood and urine tests, and an electrocardiogram.

In the period from 20 to 23 weeks, a second biochemical screening is performed and an ultrasound scan is done. What the doctor pays attention to when evaluating the result:

• body structure - Week 21 is considered the most the right time to identify deviations in the development of the child. For more later dates finding them is much more difficult. The specialist checks the internal organs, limbs, the musculoskeletal system, pays attention to the movements of the fetus;
• growth and development - the doctor must pay attention to the size of the baby, the length of the thigh, the diameter of the abdomen, head, etc.;
• the quantity and quality of amniotic fluid - the lack of amniotic fluid, as well as its too large volume, may be associated with the health state of both the expectant mother and her crumbs;
• heart work - The doctor checks the heartbeat, the size of the atria, pulmonary artery and aorta. This allows you to detect irregularities in the functioning of the organ and take measures to treat the baby even before his birth.

Important! Any deviations from normal indicators identified during the study should serve as a reason for consulting narrow specialists and passing additional tests as soon as possible.

Possible problems by the middle of the term: what to look for

Unpleasant moments can darken the course of pregnancy at any time. What you can face at the 21st week of pregnancy, we will describe below.

Back pain

Due to the rapidly increasing weight, the muscles of the back and spine begin to tire faster and even give unpleasant sensations in the lower back. The expectant mother should try to rest, not lift weights, and support her back by regularly wearing a bandage.

Stretch marks

The volume and proportions of the body increase, the skin does not have time to adjust to the growing weight and loses its elasticity. All this is reflected in the appearance of stretch marks that spoil the appearance. The breasts, hips and especially the growing belly are most affected. Unfortunately, it is impossible to cope with the appeared stretch marks, but you can prevent the appearance of new ones. To do this, you need to lubricate problem areas with cosmetic oil or special creams for pregnant women from stretch marks.

Convulsions

Often, expectant mothers in the second trimester begin to suffer from leg cramps. They most often signal a lack of minerals, mainly calcium and potassium. You can cope with a sudden cramp by simply pulling the foot of the affected leg towards you. You should discuss the problem of seizures with your doctor, and also enrich your diet with dairy products and dried fruits.

Edema

Both arms and legs can swell and swell in pregnant women at this time. It is very easy to notice - it is impossible to remove the ring from swollen toes, and it is difficult to put shoes on a swollen foot. Simple measures will help against edema: limit the use of salty and fatty foods, wear loose clothing without belts and elastic bands squeezing the skin, if possible, raise your legs to a higher level in a sitting position (place your feet on a pouf, armchair or chair).

Week 21 - Important Facts:

Tips for an expectant mother for an easy pregnancy

Food	Your menu should be dominated by fresh vegetables and fruits, cereals, red fish, lean meat and dairy products. Watch your weight. Too fast an increase in kilograms in a short time can provoke the appearance of varicose veins. Control your fluid intake, drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. Avoid constipation. Do not use tonic drinks (strong tea, coffee).
Relaxation	When relaxing at sea, do not overheat in the sun. Take only the morning sun rays and in limited quantities. Avoid high-heeled shoes and mules. Wear models that have good heel support. So walking will benefit your circulatory system.
Activity	Go swimming in the mum-to-be program. If before pregnancy you practiced running, tennis, jumping, volleyball, then you should not quit training - slightly slow down in physical activity, but do not exclude them completely.
Wellbeing	Try to behave reasonably, be attentive to yourself. For any health concerns, see your doctor so as not to miss the onset of pregnancy complications. Make sure that existing chronic diseases do not cause complications. Take a warm bath for 10-15 minutes 1.5 hours before bedtime. The habitual evening bath will give you a full and pleasant sleep.