Everything you need to know about week 21 of pregnancy

21st week of pregnancy (Week 21)

Welcome to the 21st week of pregnancy – you are now right in the middle of your 6th month and heading towards the second half of your pregnancy. Many expectant mothers experience the 21st week as a particularly pleasant phase: the bump is clearly visible, the baby is noticeably active, and physically you may be feeling better than at the start of your pregnancy.

Your baby is now making daily progress in its development, especially in terms of movement, weight, and sensory perception. There are also many changes happening for you as an expectant mum – your body continues to adapt to the growing life inside you.

The 21st week of pregnancy at a glance

Your baby at 21 weeks pregnant:

• At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby is about 26–27 cm long and weighs approximately 350–400 grams.
• It is practising diligently: grasping, swallowing, kicking – movements that you can now feel regularly.
• Digestion is at work: your baby swallows amniotic fluid, which passes through the gastrointestinal tract.
• The skin is still thin, but protected by vernix caseosa.
• Sensory perception is developing further – your baby is responding to voices, light, and gentle touches through the abdominal wall.
  
  

Your body at 21 weeks pregnant:

• Your uterus continues to grow and now extends clearly above your belly button.
• You can now feel your baby regularly – a particularly special moment for many expectant mothers.
• Typical companions: calf cramps, heartburn, circulatory fluctuations or a pulling sensation in the groin.
• Your skin also continues to change – stretch marks or increased pigmentation are not uncommon.
• Weight gain in week 21 of pregnancy is usually between 5–7 kg – but this varies from person to person.
  
  
  

Development of the baby in the 21st week of pregnancy

Your baby is growing vigorously – both in size and in weight. In the 21st week of pregnancy, it is about 27 cm long and moves confidently through the amniotic fluid. Many babies are now making their first attempts at coordinating purposeful movements, such as grasping with their hands or pushing off with their feet.

The sensory organs are now so well developed that your baby can recognise your voice and even perceive soothing music. The little heartbeat is also strong and regular. The nerve pathways in the brain continue to differentiate – an important step towards responding to stimuli.

The immune system is strengthened by antibodies passed on from the mother, and more meconium continues to accumulate in the intestines – a sign of active digestion. The tiny lips, eyelids and eyebrows are taking on ever clearer shapes – a real example of just how human your baby already looks.

Your body in the 21st week of pregnancy

At 21 weeks pregnant, you are clearly “visibly pregnant.” Your bump is growing, and your body weight is also increasing – both are healthy signs of progress and can be easily tracked on the pregnancy calendar. Many expectant mothers now notice the baby’s movements particularly intensely, as there is still plenty of room for it to turn and stretch freely.

Typical symptoms such as heartburn, calf cramps, fluctuations in circulation or increased sweating are completely normal during this time. Make sure to take regular breaks, wear comfortable clothing, and maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fluids.

A good time to actively engage in birth preparation – for example, with prenatal yoga, a childbirth preparation course, or by talking with your midwife. Towards the end of the second trimester, the topic of birth becomes more prominent – start to gently prepare yourself for it.

The pram you've always wanted.

Tips for week 21 of pregnancy

• 🍼 Consciously perceive movement: When your baby is active, place your hands on your belly – you’ll be surprised at how clearly you can feel it.
• 🧘‍♀️ Body and mind in balance: Gentle exercise, warm baths, and plenty of sleep are especially beneficial for you right now.
• 🛍️ Start planning: Use the quiet phase to focus on baby essentials, the nursery, or birth preparation.
• 👩‍⚕️ Next check-up: The next check-up is coming soon – this is when your baby's growth will be checked again.
  
  
  
  

The most frequently asked questions about the 21st week of pregnancy

How far along am I in my pregnancy now?

At 21 weeks pregnant, you are more than halfway through your pregnancy – you are in the second trimester and your baby bump is becoming increasingly visible.

What is my baby doing in the womb?

Your baby is now practising movements deliberately and developing facial expressions. In the womb, it is training swallowing, breathing, and sometimes even experiencing its first Braxton Hicks contractions (also known as practice contractions).

What happens to the baby's blood?

The liver and spleen begin producing blood cells – an important step towards your baby’s independence after birth.

What do you feel in the 21st week of pregnancy?

Many pregnant women regularly notice their baby's movements. Some experience mild pregnancy symptoms such as back pain, headaches or circulatory fluctuations.

What does a typical day for my baby look like?

Your baby is developing a sleep-wake rhythm. It often sleeps 12–14 hours a day, interrupted by active phases with kicks and turns.

Should I be worried about pain or a pulling sensation?

A slight pulling sensation in the abdomen or practice contractions are normal. If you experience severe pain, you should contact your doctor – it's better to ask once too often than not enough.

How does my body change in the 21st week of pregnancy?

Your back has to bear more – this can cause back pain or tension. Comfortable shoes, breaks and gentle exercise will help you with this.

What to do in case of fears or uncertainties?

It is completely normal for many thoughts, worries or fears to arise during this phase. Talk to your partner, your midwife or in your antenatal class.

When should I start preparing for childbirth?

The 21st week of pregnancy is a good opportunity to start planning – for example, with a checklist, discussions with your doctor, or sorting baby clothes in the wardrobe.

How big is my baby now?

The length is about 26–27 cm – from head to toe. Your child weighs approximately 350–400 g – the figures may vary slightly from one individual to another.

What helps against sleep problems during pregnancy?

A nursing pillow, regular routines and a calm atmosphere promote restful sleep. Gentle stretching exercises or warm baths also help with relaxation.

The dream buggy you always wanted.

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