Navigating Week 21 Pregnancy Tips and Local Resources for Hertfordshire Mums
- Olivia Christina
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
Reaching 21 weeks pregnant is an exciting milestone. You’re more than halfway to meeting your little one. Your bump is growing, and those unmistakable flutters and kicks remind you daily of your baby's presence. This week, we’ll dive into what’s happening with your baby, how you might be feeling, and some local resources to support you during this special time.
Baby at 21 Weeks
At this stage, your baby is around 27 cm long – about the size of a carrot. They are growing quickly and becoming stronger, so those movements will soon feel less like butterflies and more like playful nudges.
Their taste buds are forming, allowing them to swallow small amounts of amniotic fluid. This is like their first taste of the world.
Eyebrows and eyelids are becoming more defined, adding character to their tiny face.
Fun fact: By 21 weeks, your baby can respond to sounds. Playing soft music or talking to them can create a familiar bond even before birth.
How You Might Be Feeling
During this week, you may notice your energy levels dip, especially in the afternoons. Taking short, frequent rests can help you recharge.
Backaches and leg cramps can also become more common as your bump grows. Engaging in prenatal yoga or gentle stretching exercises can help alleviate these discomforts. Studies have shown that 40-50% of pregnant women experience back pain, so you're not alone.
Emotionally, this is a time of deepening connection. Those kicks are not just random movements; they are daily reminders that your baby is thriving.
This Week’s Tip
Try lying quietly on your side after dinner and gently placing your hand on your bump. This is often when baby gets lively, creating a unique bonding moment between you and your little one.
Local Spotlight: North Herts Baby Massage
This week, I'd like to introduce a fantastic local resource for new parents – North Herts Baby Massage. Caroline is such a skilled practitioner and teachers such a wonderful bonding skill to new mums, this is one to put on the to do list!
Located in Baldock, these classes are designed not only to benefit your baby but also to connect you with other parents. Here’s what you can expect:
Bonding with your baby through gentle, calming touch.
Learning massage techniques to help soothe colic, wind, and teething pains. Research shows that baby massage can reduce crying time by 50% in some infants.
A welcoming environment to meet and interact with other local mums.
Embracing the Journey Ahead
As you enter week 21 of your pregnancy, embrace the changes in your body and your growing bond with your baby. Take advantage of local support, whether it's through gentle movements, classes, or simply taking a moment to connect with your little one.
Every step you take now is a step closer to welcoming your baby into the world. Remember to reach out to fellow Hertfordshire mums for camaraderie and support.
Ready to book your Newborn Photoshoot
This is the perfect opportunity to plan in advance and schedule your baby's first portrait session. Appointments fill up months ahead, with availability limited to only eight babies per month. Most clients reserve a session shortly after their 20-week scan. While some may worry about superstitions, such concerns only hold the significance you attribute to them. By booking early, you ensure a secured spot in the schedule for your baby's due month, positioning you to capture those precious moments when your baby is approximately 10 days old.
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead!
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