What To Expect At Week 21

Your baby is now approximately 10 1/2 inches long- about the size of a carrot. It may soon feel like they are practicing martial arts as their initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to their activity as you get to know them better. In other developments, your baby’s eyebrows and lids are present now, and if you have a girl, her vagina has begun to take shape as well. You’re probably feeling pretty comfortable these days. You’re not that big yet, and the usual aches and pains associated with early pregnancy are, for the most part, are gone. Relax and enjoy it while you can — the third trimester may bring with it a new crop of complaints. This is not to say that you don’t have a few minor glitches to deal with now. For example, increased oil production may contribute to the development or worsening of acne. To help control pimples, be sure to wash well with a mild soap or cleanser twice a day, and make sure that any moisturizer or makeup you use is oil-free. Don’t take any oral acne medications – some are very hazardous during pregnancy or use any topical acne products without first checking with your doctor. You’re also prone to varicose veins now. This is because as the pregnancy progresses, there is increased pressure on the veins in your legs and higher progesterone levels, which can lead to the walls of your veins to relax, and make the problem worse.