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Second trimester

21 Weeks Pregnant

Past the midpoint

This week your baby is around the size of a carrot.

How your baby is developing

  • Your baby keeps growing.
  • Movements may become more noticeable for some.

What may be happening in your body

  • Movements can become a little clearer around now, though they still come and go through the day rather than being constant.
  • Feeling hotter than usual is a common symptom around now, even when others feel cool.
  • You may feel a little unsteady on your feet as your bump grows — your centre of gravity has changed and your joints are looser. If you do have a tumble, try not to panic: your baby is well protected, but let your midwife or doctor know as soon as possible.

How you may be feeling

  • Feeling movement more clearly can be reassuring for some, offering a small daily sense of your baby's presence.
  • Now you're past the midpoint, some people find their thoughts turning toward practical plans, while others aren't ready yet — both are fine.
  • It's common for some to feel more like themselves again in these middle weeks, with a bit more energy than the early months.

Worth remembering

Movements come and go through the day; a pattern matters more than constant motion.

A closer look

Movements become clearer

As movements become clearer, you may start to notice when your baby tends to be most active. There's no set number of movements you should feel and no need to count kicks — what matters is getting to know your baby's usual pattern from day to day. If you ever think movements have slowed down or stopped, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away.

Your baby can hear you now

Around this stage your baby can hear noises and voices outside the womb. If you talk or sing to your bump — however it sounds — your baby is listening, and some parents find this a lovely way to start feeling connected. Your baby is also settling into waking and sleeping patterns of their own.

Something you can do this week

Comfortable positions and gentle rest can help day to day.

What comes next

The placenta will keep growing alongside your baby.

Professional support

Services ParentSide defines for this stage. Each page explains what the service covers and which professionals are approved to provide it.

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Sources and updates

Sources

Last reviewed:
This content is based on estimated averages and general information; it does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned about yourself or your baby, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

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