You have done well with your half-pregnancy. Now it is time to face the second half. During week 21 of pregnancy, you might begin to feel the frequent fetal movements. Your little one is growing and would have developed a routine for sleeping and waking up. But the issue is that your little one might be wide awake when you sleep. They may start racing, and you might face sleep problems. Let us learn more about how does your body change during week 21 of pregnancy. Let us get started.
How Does Your Body Change During Week 21 of Pregnancy?
With the expanding uterus and growing belly, you might feel that your body is unsteady. Don’t worry; your baby is well protected. Talk to your doctor immediately about it. There are several other symptoms that you may experience during week 21 of pregnancy. Let us discuss them more.
1. Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as prodromal or false pains, occur during the second and third trimesters. It is common during pregnancy and might feel similar to mild premenstrual cramps. You may feel tightening of certain areas in the uterus. The contractions occur when the uterus contracts and relaxes.
When contractions occur during the third trimester, most pregnant women may mistake them for labor pain. They do not indicate labor. It is a natural way through which your body prepares itself for delivery. You might feel uncomfortable, but it is usually painless.
The exact reasons for the contractions are unknown. However, the following circumstances may trigger Braxton-Hicks contractions:
- Women who are physically active during pregnancy
- When the bladder is full
- When your body is dehydrated,
- After being sexually active.
You need to remember that these contractions do not result in cervix dilation. They only help in cervix softening.
What to do?
Suppose you feel the contractions often; talk to your doctor and check yourself. Try to take time for yourself and relax from your busy schedule. Take a warm bath and drink plenty of water.
2. Prominent Nail Changes
The pregnancy hormones are increasing day by day, every day. As they increasingly circulate in the body, additional nutrients flow that give rapid growth to hair and nails. You may notice that your nails are growing stronger and faster. All you need to remember is the extra growth is due to the pregnancy hormones, and the phase is not permanent.
What to do?
Some women experience frequent splitting of nails. Ensure you keep your nails trimmed and avoid applying nail polish.
Other Symptoms
The following are a few other symptoms that you may have experienced in the previous weeks:
1. Backache
As the uterus expands over the pregnancy phase, the extra pressure on the uterus causes a backache. It is common during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters.
What to do?
You can consult your doctor and follow simple exercises to eliminate backaches. Your pain will subside soon after the delivery.
2. Leg Cramps
Leg cramps are very common during pregnancy. You must have a handful of experience with leg cramps by the 21st week of pregnancy.
What to do?
Follow simple leg exercises to relieve the pain.
3. Stretch Marks
Stretch marks happen when the uterus expands and stretches the skin to accommodate the extra space. It is widespread during pregnancy, and there is nothing to worry about.
What to do?
Several gels and natural remedies are available to eliminate stretch marks.
4. Bloating and Gas
Bloating and gas are very common during pregnancy. The increasing levels of pregnancy hormones in the body are the culprits to blame.
What to do?
Try to eat healthily and drink plenty of water. Try to avoid spicy and junk food.
5. Swelling / Water Retention
The pregnant body produces more fluids to support the mother and the baby. The excess fluids get stored in various body parts, including the foot, ankles, and face.
What to do?
Avoid being in the same position for a long time. Keeping your legs elevated while sitting will help you cope with swelling.
6. Fetal Movements
You may experience frequent fetal movements. The kicks and jumps may become regular and exciting.
What to do?
Enjoy the moment with the little one.
7. Clumsiness
Clumsiness comes along with pregnancy. It is common to find that all your things are scattered, and you have many pending tasks to complete.
What to do?
It is very common to be unorganized and clumsy while you are pregnant. Try and take the help of people around you to be much more organized.
8. Pregnancy Brain
Pregnancy brain, also known as forgetfulness, is widespread during pregnancy. You may find yourself very forgetful and absent-minded.
What to do?
It is widespread during pregnancy, and you can seek the help of your partner and others in the house to remind you about important and regular tasks when you forget.
9. Mood Swings
The increase in pregnancy hormones may give you mood swings.
What to do?
This is just a phase, and you will return to normal soon. You can’t do anything about the mood swings. Talk to your partner and make them understand what you are going through.
Pregnancy is a beautiful phase where your body undergoes extraordinary changes. But they will get back to normal after delivery. During week 21 of pregnancy, you must be cautious about the Braxton Hicks contraction. Everything will fall into place, and you will hold your little one soon.
Happy Pregnancy!
Read Also: How Does Your Body Change During Week 22 of Pregnancy?
