21 weeks pregnant

21 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby’s Development

Heart throb. At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby's heartbeat is now loud enough to be heard through a simple stethoscope, but the beat can be difficult to distinguish from your own. Listen for the faster rhythm — a baby's heartbeat is 120 to 160 beats per minute, about twice as fast as your own. Many women think it sounds like galloping horses.

Snooze news. Your baby in the 21st week of pregnancy is already starting to sleep and wake in subtle cycles. Ultrasounds show that unborn babies may even settle into a favorite sleeping position.

21 Weeks Pregnant - Fetus Development

21 Weeks Pregnant: Your Symptoms

Sore spots. Backaches, especially in the lower back, are quite common during 21st week of pregnancy. Your growing uterus is shifting your center of gravity and pulling your lower back forward. Meanwhile, the hormone relaxin is loosening every joint and ligament in your body, which will allow your pelvis to expand when it's time for delivery.

Back savers. To help alleviate back pain during 21st week of pregnancy, make these adjustments in your daily routine. Whenever you sit, use a footrest to elevate your feet slightly. If you need to stand for a long period of time, put one foot on a small stool to take some pressure off your lower back. Treat yourself to a warm bath for additional relief. Also, have a look at other remedies to reduce back pain during pregnancy by Pampers India. If your backache won't go away, give your healthcare provider a call.

21 Weeks Pregnant: Your Checklist

  • Use a footrest to elevate your feet slightly whenever you sit

  • Treat yourself to a warm bath to help relieve back pain. Get week-by-week expert tips on pregnancy to keep track of your baby’s development & to ensure well-being of both you & your baby during entire nine months journey!

  • Make sure your registry is done, especially if your baby shower is happening soon. Read our baby shower guide to know more about how to plan for your big day with classic baby shower games!

  • Sign up for weekly pregnancy tips