Welcome to Week 21! Your little one is now about the size of a papaya—around 10.5 inches long (measured head to toe now!) and weighing roughly 12–13 ounces. They’re growing fast, getting stronger, and starting to experience the world in new ways—even inside the womb.
What’s Happening in Your Body?
Baby’s taste buds are developing, which means they can taste traces of what you’re eating through the amniotic fluid. Sweet, savory, even a bit of spice—they’re getting a tiny “preview” of your diet!
They’re also practicing swallowing, digesting, and moving more deliberately. Their kicks and stretches are becoming stronger and more coordinated—you might even see your belly move slightly with their flips.
For you, your uterus is now about an inch above your belly button, and your bump is likely unmistakable.
Common Symptoms This Week
Stronger, more frequent kicks—baby’s definitely making their presence known
Backaches or pelvic pressure from your shifting posture
Leg cramps—often at night (ugh)
Heartburn or indigestion as baby takes up more space
Swelling in your feet or ankles if you’ve been on your feet all day
Skin changes like dark patches (melasma) or an itchy belly
And yes, pregnancy brain can feel extra real right now—forgetfulness and clumsiness are common thanks to hormones and fatigue.
What You Can Do This Week
Pay attention to baby’s movements, even if they’re not on a set schedule yet
Stay hydrated—it helps with swelling, cramps, and digestion
Eat nutrient-rich foods—baby’s growth is accelerating, and they’re “tasting” what you eat!
Elevate your feet if swelling gets uncomfortable
Start thinking about your birth plan—it’s early, but research helps you feel prepared
And if you’re loving feeling baby move, you can log those first “big” kicks in an app like Cubtale—they’re the kind of milestone you’ll never forget.
Real Talk
Week 21 can feel magical—you’re more connected to baby with every kick, every stretch. But it can also feel heavy—literally. Your body is changing rapidly, and it’s okay if you’re feeling both proud and uncomfortable.
You might also find yourself daydreaming about life after pregnancy—who this baby will be, what kind of parent you’ll become. It’s okay to feel excitement and uncertainty at the same time.
Take it slow. This middle stretch of pregnancy is a sweet spot—enjoy the moments when you can.
We’re not doctors—we’re just parents who’ve been through the late-night Google searches, the “is this normal?” moments, and the waiting game. Everything we share here comes from our own experiences and research, but it’s not medical advice.
If you ever have questions or concerns about your pregnancy, always check with your healthcare provider. And if you notice anything we missed or got wrong, we’d love to hear from you—drop us a message anytime.