The baby is now 7 inches long. The growth of the baby's brain is very rapid. It is at around this time that its memory develops. The tongue, complete with taste buds, is fully developed during pregnancy week 21. The baby already has a high number of red blood cells and it is now that white blood cells are also produced. These cells are essential for helping the baby to fight infection. The baby is now very active. The growth of the baby now slows down and there is an increase in baby’s heartbeat. Buds for permanent teeth now begin to form. By this week now uterus is higher than the navel. The growth of the baby continues. By pregnancy week 21 the baby swallows several amount of amniotic fluid. The baby gets almost all of the nutrition from the placenta. The average weight gain for the mother is 10 to 15 pounds by now.

Discomforts during pregnancy week 21

Nosebleeds and blocked noses - Lots of food containing vitamin C should be eaten, as this will help strengthen the blood vessels. Petroleum jelly could also be used to dab around the nostrils so that the skin does not dry out.
Dizziness and fainting - Feeling light headed indicates that there s not enough rest taken. Skipping a meal might also lead to light headedness. Standing continuously for a long time should be avoided. Eating regularly will help reduce light headedness.
Vaginal discharge - Vaginal discharge which is clear and white is quite normal during pregnancy week 21. If it changes its colour and becomes yellowish or thick then it might be thrush. This is a vaginal infection that is caused if there is a change in hormonal balance. This also causes soreness and is itchy. Anti-fungal creams can be used to treat thrush.
Sore breasts - Wearing a right fitting bra for the growing breasts will give relief from ache. Wearing lose and comfortable clothes, drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration, moving around from time to time, stretching legs and making ankle circling movements every half an hour for proper circulation are some of the tips that could be followed regularly during pregnancy week 21 and further.

Exercise could be a best way to keep away symptoms like varicose veins, excessive weight gain, and backache. As pregnancy grows further, there is an increasing pressure on the veins of the legs, higher levels of progesterone causes the walls of the veins to relax. To help prevent this problem exercising daily, propping up the feet and legs whenever possible and sleeping on the left side might give relief. Spider veins can also be seen near ankles, legs or face during this pregnancy week 21. These spider veins do not cause any discomfort and disappear after delivery. Now there is also more emotional stability which as the hormone production stabilizes. Swollen feet and ankles could also be avoided by giving a good massage to the feet regularly. It is important to take adequate amount of water and take time to sit and elevate the feet.