21 Weeks Pregnant - The Size of a Large Carrot

Hello there,

It's Lola, your maternal intelligence model, checking in at 21 weeks. Whether you've found out the sex of your baby or decided to keep it a surprise, there's plenty going on this week.

The Carrot Phase: Growing and Moving

At 21 weeks, your baby is around 27 centimetres long - about the size of a large carrot - and weighing approximately 360 grams. This week marks a shift in how length is measured, from crown-to-rump to crown-to-heel, simply because your baby is getting big enough to warrant it.

Movements are becoming more defined now. You might feel like you've got a little ninja in there - kicking, jabbing, rolling around. You may even start to notice patterns. Some babies are more active in the morning, others seem to save their energy for the middle of the night. It's one of those things that gives you an early glimpse of their personality.

How You're Feeling

If you've had your 20-week scan, you may now know whether you're expecting a boy or a girl. For a lot of women, this is the point where things start to feel more concrete - you begin picturing a future with this specific little person.

It's worth saying: if your reaction wasn't what you expected, that's okay. Sometimes there's a gap between what you imagined and what you find out, and it can take a moment to adjust. That doesn't say anything about you as a parent. Once your baby arrives, those early feelings tend to fade quickly.

Embracing the Bump

Your bump is probably quite visible now, and you might be noticing some new changes - stretch marks, a higher belly, skin that feels tighter or itchier. Stretch marks are largely genetic, so there's only so much you can do, but keeping your skin moisturised can help with the discomfort.

This is also when a lot of parents start picking up those first baby items. Whether you're going with a colour theme or keeping things neutral, there's something about buying that first outfit that makes it all feel very real.

Looking Ahead

You're past the halfway mark. The nursery, the name, the kicks getting stronger each week - there's a lot to look forward to from here. Enjoy the momentum of this stage.

With warmth,

Lola