Your pregnancy: 21 to 24 weeks 

Your baby

Your baby is still small enough to change position a lot — from head down to feet down, or even sideways. Although it might not feel like it to you, your baby sleeps long hours, about 12 to 14 hours every day. Oh — and that funny jerking motion you’ve been feeling means your baby has the hiccups.

What’s happening this week?

Week 21 of pregnancy A pomegranate
Hands holding a pomegranate

21 weeks pregnant

At 21 weeks pregnant, your baby is reaching important stages of growth: 

  • Your baby weighs nearly 11 ounces, or about the size of a pomegranate. 
  • Key organs like the heart, lungs, and kidneys are getting stronger. 
  • Taste buds are forming. Your baby can taste flavors when swallowing small amounts of amniotic fluid, which reflects your diet. 
  • The nervous system is progressing, helping your baby make coordinated movements. 

Your baby is about 11 inches long from head to heel, growing steadily throughout your pregnancy. Their position might change week by week, as they still have plenty of space to move around. But as the pregnancy goes on, they might settle into a regular position, often head down, getting ready for birth.

 

Week 22 of pregnancy A grapefruit
Hands holding a grapefruit

22 weeks pregnant

Proud parent-to-be moment: This week, my baby should hit the 1-pound mark.

  • Your baby is the size of a grapefruit.
  • Either your baby’s testicles are beginning to lower into their groin area, or their vagina is fully developed.
  • Your baby can now feel your touch through your belly.
Week 23 of pregnancy A mango
Hands holding a mango

23 weeks pregnant

They say that by now, my baby might get startled by loud or sudden noises.
Ssshhh!

  • Your baby is the size of a mango.
  • Their skin remains transparent and hangs loosely.
  • Lungs are developing rapidly.
  • Your little one’s heartbeat is getting stronger and louder.
Week 24 of pregnancy A turnip
Hand holding a turnip

24 weeks pregnant

They say babies prefer classical music, like Bach or Mozart. What do you think?

  • Your baby is the size of a large turnip.
  • Hair is growing on the head, eyelashes, and eyebrows.
  • Inner ears, which control balance, are now fully developed.
  • Your baby is starting to gain more body fat. Soon you’ll have a plump little baby!

Your body

To get ready for childbirth, pregnancy hormones are causing your joints to soften, so you may feel a little clumsy. Just roll with it.

Seeing and feeling your baby squirming under your clothes might feel weird, but it’s a sign that your baby’s development is on track. Think of it as a high five.

If you have leg cramps, heartburn, insomnia, or other discomforts, we have information and tips for common pregnancy symptoms. Our best advice? Take it easy when you can. Remember — growing a baby takes a lot of energy.

Your to-do list

  • Sign up for lactation, breastfeeding, or chestfeeding classes.* If nothing comes up in your area, ask us about prenatal and postnatal support at your next appointment.
  • Remember to stay hydrated. It can help ease — or even prevent — common pregnancy symptoms like constipation, headaches, and fatigue.
  • If you have a partner, make time to connect with them. If possible, take a babymoon, or a weekend away to relax before your new baby comes.
  • Listen to your body. Get extra sleep when you’re tired — you’ve earned it.

*Some classes may require a fee.

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Northern California members:
Visit Your Pregnancy to sign up for prenatal classes, get weekly emails, view and prepare for appointments, and more.

Learn about CenteringPregnancy®, a unique prenatal care program that includes group support with other new moms.