21 weeks pregnant

Your baby

Your baby can hear sounds from outside the uterus. Hair and eyebrows continue developing, along with the fine body hair called lanugo. The placenta continues its work supplying nutrients and oxygen and removing waste. Talking or singing can be a way to connect with your pregnancy, without needing to treat a baby's response as a test.

Your body

Your center of gravity changes as your bump grows, which can affect balance and posture. Tasks that once felt easy may require a different position or a break. Comfortable footwear and thoughtful movement can help you adapt your routine. If you feel dizzy, have pain or are worried about falling, discuss that rather than assuming every change is simply part of pregnancy.

This week

Adjusting to changes in balance

Look at a typical day and identify the activity that causes the most discomfort: standing at work, carrying shopping, sitting at a desk or getting in and out of bed. Ask your care team about adjustments that fit that task. If you exercise, ask how to modify activities as balance changes and whether any restrictions apply to your pregnancy. A specific example is easier to address than a general question about staying comfortable. You can also ask whether additional support, such as an assessment of persistent back or pelvic pain, would be useful.