21 weeks pregnant
Length: 26 cmWeight: 350 g
Baby development
Now it's also easier to measure me, from the head down to the heel.
Therefore, it seems that I have grown (quite) a bit, but instead it's just a new way to measure my length. My length and weight are still approximate.
Now all my organs are in place, but it will be many weeks before they mature and become fully functional. Up until now, my liver and spleen have produced all my blood cells, but the bone marrow has also begun to contribute to the production. My hearing and sense of touch are far advanced and if my mother is lucky she might notice my sudden jerks in her belly. My movements can help us slowly form a bond that will last a lifetime. Not to worry if you can’t feel me in your belly, as this could all be dependent on what position I am in. It may take a few more weeks before some mothers may feel anything. If you are concerned, simply contact your midwife.
Mothers development
You’re at the halfway mark. Congratulations!
The increased volume of blood may lead to you needing iron supplements, depending on how much iron is stored in your body. A test to measure your iron levels will be carried out by the midwife, who will advise you on what you need. Iron can be found in, among other things, haemoglobin, which transports oxygen into the blood and in myoglobin, which transports oxygen into the muscles. Keep on eating iron-rich foods, such as black pudding, parsley, legumes and spinach and supplement them with iron tablets. Keep in mind that tea, coffee and milk lessen the effects of your iron intake.
Keep active. Exercise is good as long as you listen to your body. Water gymnastics and pregnancy yoga are examples of suitable exercises at this stage and before delivery.
Co-parent
It’s finally time to make your voice heard.
To the little one in the belly (in a few years you may be too tired to even try, but that's another story). Even though the mother might have the baby in her belly, that doesn’t stop you from getting an early start in forming a bond. The baby now perceives sound and can start to recognise your voice. With a bit of luck, the baby might react to the sound of your voice with visible movements. This will make it all the more real and prepare you for that first meeting together.
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