Louise 
Pregnancy Week 21: What to Expect This Week
At Pregnancy Week 21, you’re properly into the swing of the second trimester. Your bump is probably making its presence known (to you and everyone else), baby is dancing away inside, and you might be feeling more like yourself again—well, a slightly puffier, snackier version of yourself.
Let’s take a look at what’s going on this week.
Baby at Pregnancy Week 21
Baby now measures about 27cm long and weighs around 360g—about the size of a carrot (though far more lively).
What’s happening inside:
Baby’s digestive system is working—they’re swallowing amniotic fluid
Taste buds are developing, and they may be tasting what you eat
Eyelids and eyebrows are fully formed
Their movements are getting stronger—you may notice patterns starting to form
They’re still covered in lanugo (soft body hair) and vernix (the waxy coating that protects their skin)
You may even be able to spot little kicks from the outside, which can feel both magical and vaguely sci-fi.
Your Symptoms at Pregnancy Week 21
Your uterus is now sitting above your belly button, and your body is very much in “growing a human” mode. This week, you might notice:
Backache or round ligament pain
Increased appetite (growing a baby is hungry work)
Dry, itchy or stretching skin
Mild swelling in your hands or feet by evening
More noticeable baby movements
Stronger emotions or mood swings—totally normal at this stage
Shop our pregnancy-safe oils
What to Do at Pregnancy Week 21
This is a great week to start getting ahead—gently and without pressure:
Check out antenatal class options—early booking = best choice of dates
Honest Midwife Thoughts
Pregnancy Week 21 is often when people start to feel a bit more settled. You might be showing, feeling movement, and feeling slightly more “in control” than in the whirlwind of early pregnancy.
But this is also when the what-ifs and how-the-hells creep in about birth, feeding, and life with a baby. It’s normal. You don’t need to have all the answers yet—but this is the perfect time to start gathering the ones that matter most to you.
We’re here to help you feel informed, empowered, and actually excited about what’s to come.
Feeling Ready? Join Us for a Class
Now is a brilliant time to start preparing your mind and body:
All taught live by real midwives. No fluff, no pressure—just practical, honest support.
Book a class