Week 21-24

Week 21

The baby: the baby is now approximately 7. 2 inches long and weighs nearly 10. 5 ounces. The baby's organ systems are maturing as the fetal growth rate continues to slow. Simple functioning of the fetal digestive system is now present allowing the baby to swallow amniotic fluid, absorb water from it, and pass unabsorbed waste on to the bowels.

The mother: the mother's uterus should now be close to an inch above her belly button and her weight gain should be between 10 and 15 pounds. Swelling in the mother's lower legs and feet should be obvious. At this stage the mother is susceptible to blood clots in her legs.

Week 22

The baby: the baby now measures approximately 7. 6 inches in length and weighs 12. 25 ounces. The developing organ systems are now beginning to specialize. The baby's eyelids and eyebrows are now fully developed and his muscles are growing stronger, making movements more noticeable to the mother. The baby will also begin responding to sounds so talking to him and playing music for him can help soothe him.

The mother: This stage of pregnancy may be the most comfortable for the mother. Morning sickness has likely dissipated and her size has not become a huge burden on her actions and capabilities.

Week 23

The baby: the baby now weighs approximately one pound and has grown to nearly 8 inches in length. The baby's body is filling out and the lanugo hair is darkening in some places. His face and body begin to take a more human appearance.

The mother: the mother's uterus should now be approximately 1. 5 inches above her belly button and maternal weight gain should on average be between 12 and 15 pounds. The mother's physician will likely begin measuring the mother at every visit after this point. Changes in her weight and uterine growth will be monitored. It is key to remember that each woman and baby are unique and will grow different amounts. What is important is that the growth is regular and consistent, as opposed to inconsistent and erratic. The mother's uterus is now sitting directly on top of her bladder making uncontrollable urine leakage a high probability. Vaginal discharge with slight yellowish coloration and a mild smell are also normal during this stage of pregnancy.

Week 24

The baby: the baby is now approximately 8. 4 inches long and 1. 2 pounds. He is continuing to fill out and gain fat. White bloods cells are also now being produced in greater quantities to fight infections and disease.

The mother: the mother's uterus should now be between 1. 5 and 2 inches above her belly button. The volume of amniotic fluid present continues to grow and she can expect to gain nearly a pound per week during this period. Typically during this week glucose screens are given to test for gestational diabetes. This test is often repeated during the 28th week of pregnancy.

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