Congratulations! You are now exactly halfway through your pregnancy, that is, in the second half. This is a milestone to be really happy about. During this time, many important changes are happening for you and your little one inside you. Let's see what happens during this lovely journey from weeks 21 to 25?
Week 21: Halfway through the journey!
What happens to the baby? (Baby's Development)
This week, your baby is starting to gain some fat to keep him warm. Although his growth rate is a little slower than before, his organs are still maturing well. To protect his skin from drying out, oil glands in his skin produce a waxy film. This is called vernix caseosa . This is what keeps his skin smooth while he's in the amniotic fluid.
Just think, the baby's permanent teeth are now starting to form. If the baby is a boy, the testicles have formed, but they are still inside the abdominal cavity. By now, the baby is kicking and squirming a lot. The baby is now about the size of a large butternut squash, or about 10.5 inches long .
How is Mom-to-be? (Mom-to-be's Changes)
As you enter the second half of your pregnancy this week, your belly may be starting to move forward a bit. You may notice stretch marks on your breasts or stomach. Your uterus is now higher than your belly button. You may have gained about 10-14 pounds by now.
A little advice for this week
If you're interested in childbirth classes, now is the best time to find one.
Week 22: Baby can now hear songs!
What happens to the baby? (Baby's Development)
Week by week, the baby's muscles are getting stronger. The eyelashes and eyebrows are now well developed. Hair is also visible. The baby is now wiggling a lot, and is responding to sounds, rhythms, and music from outside. If you talk to the baby now, or sing songs to him, those sounds will be familiar to him after he is born, and can help to comfort him.
If the baby is a girl, her ovaries are already formed. The baby is now as long as a corncob, which is about 11 inches .
How is Mom-to-be? (Mom-to-be's Changes)
Your uterus continues to grow. You will feel much better now that you are no longer experiencing morning sickness. However, you may still experience cramps in your legs and feet, and some swelling in your ankles and feet. You may experience frequent heartburn as your uterus presses on your stomach. Does your body feel hot? It's all due to pregnancy hormones!
With the increase in weight, your back, legs, and feet can become sore. If your skin feels dry and itchy, applying a moisturizer to your breasts and abdomen can provide relief.
A little advice for this week
To reduce leg pain , eat foods rich in calcium and potassium . Drinking a glass of milk before going to bed at night and eating fruits like oranges, grapes, and bananas are very good. If your leg is tingling, try keeping your leg straight and curling your toes toward your face.
Week 23: Baby is having cramps!
What happens to the baby? (Baby's Development)
The baby still has a lot of weight to gain, so the skin is still wrinkled. The fine hair on the baby's body (called lanugo) can sometimes take on a darker color. The fingers and toes are fully formed. Not only that, but they even have fingerprints now! The baby may start to move, and you may feel a little fluttering in your belly. At this stage, the skin is still translucent, meaning you can see through the skin. The baby is now about the length of a romaine lettuce head - about 12 inches .
How is Mom-to-be? (Mom-to-be's Changes)
You've probably gained about 12-15 pounds by now. It's normal to have an increase in vaginal secretions during this time. These are usually clear or yellowish and may have a mild odor. However , if there's a significant change in color or odor, talk to your doctor to see if you have an infection .
Does your lower back hurt? As your ligaments loosen in preparation for childbirth, your back and hips may feel sore. Lying down, getting a massage, or holding a hot water bottle can help. You may need to urinate less often now than you did in the first trimester.
Week 24: Age of Viability
What happens to the baby? (Baby's Development)
This week is very important. Because this is the minimum age that a baby can survive outside the womb. The baby is now starting to produce white blood cells that help fight disease and infection. He may also respond to your touch or sounds. He may even flinch if he hears a loud noise. The baby is now as long and heavy as a pineapple - about 12.5 inches and 1.5 pounds .
How is Mom-to-be? (Mom-to-be's Changes)
Expect to gain about a pound a week this month. Your doctor will likely test you for gestational diabetes between this week and week 28. You may feel a little sore after sex, which is normal. You may feel a little unsteady when you walk because your belly is getting bigger. Your heart rate is also higher now because you have to pump more blood around your body.
A little advice for this week
Your partner will be able to put their ear to your belly and hear the baby's heartbeat . It will be a wonderful experience!
Week 25: Baby's heartbeat
What happens to the baby? (Baby's Development)
The baby's skin is now opaque. This means that you can't see through it. The baby still has to grow to fit his skin, so the skin is still wrinkled. You can hear the baby's heartbeat with a stethoscope. Sometimes, depending on the baby's position, you can hear it even if someone else puts their ear to his stomach.
How is Mom-to-be? (Mom-to-be's Changes)
Your uterus is growing larger on top and sides. You may develop hemorrhoids during this time. This is caused by increased blood flow, constipation, and digestive problems. As your baby grows, you will feel his kicks and squirms. Your uterus is now about the size of a football. Your breasts are developing faster than ever during pregnancy.
Remember, all of these discomforts are temporary. Everything is happening because your baby is getting ready to come into this world.
| Possible difficulties during this time | Simple things you can do |
|---|---|
| Leg cramps | Eat foods rich in calcium and potassium. Keep your leg straight and bend your toes upwards. |
| Heartburn | Eat small, frequent meals instead of large meals. Reduce spicy and oily foods. |
| Back pain | Maintain proper posture. Soak in warm water. Do light exercise. |
| Hemorrhoids | Avoid constipation. Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water. Sitting in a warm water bath (sitz bath) may provide relief. Do not use any medication without medical advice. |
Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any changes or concerns you may have about your body. He or she will be able to give you the advice you need.
Take-Home Message
- You are now in the second half of your pregnancy. This is an important milestone.
- Your baby is developing rapidly and is starting to respond to sounds and touch.
- Back pain, leg pain, and chest pain are common. But if you have any concerns or concerns, let your doctor know right away.
- It is very important to eat a balanced diet, drink enough water, and stay relaxed.
- Enjoy this beautiful time and strengthen your bond with the little one growing inside you.
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