§second trimester · week 21 of 40
you're 21 weeks pregnant.
last revised · baby is about 26.7 cm (10.5") · 360 g (12.7 oz)
about the size of a carrot.
Now measured head-to-heel, your baby is the length of a carrot. They can swallow amniotic fluid and even hiccup.
this week's highlights
- Head-to-heel measurement starts
- Hiccups begin
- Eyebrows and eyelashes visible
- Strong reflexes
how your baby looks
Long and lean. Eyebrows and eyelashes are clear, lips are taking shape, and the eyes can move under closed eyelids.
body in focus
- head
- Eyebrows and eyelashes are visible.
- body
- Hiccups happen as breathing reflex develops.
- hands
- Fingers grasp the umbilical cord and play with it.
- feet
- Toes wiggle and kicks press against the uterine wall.
what's happening in your body
You may feel little rhythmic jumps — those are baby hiccups. Belly is rounding out and may itch as skin stretches.
gentle tips
- Apply belly oil or balm twice daily to soothe stretching skin.
- Eat protein at every meal — your baby's tissues need it.
- Stand up slowly to prevent dizziness.
- Save energy: nap when possible.
- Plan a baby moon if travel is comfortable for you.
what to expect next
Many people feel a noticeable bump grow each week from now. Sleep gets a bit harder as the belly changes positions.