Week 21–24 of pregnancy is an exciting time in the second trimester. At this point your baby is still growing like crazy, you feel the movements more and stronger and many moms start to feel more connected to their pregnancy.
This week your baby grows from the size of a carrot to the size of a papaya. Major organs continue to develop, the baby’s senses become more active and body fat begins to form under the skin.
In this post we’ll discuss all you need to know about 21 to 24 weeks pregnancy including baby size, symptoms, foetal development, changes in your body and important pregnancy care tips.
What to Expect at 21–24 Weeks Pregnant
The second trimester is from weeks 21 to 24. This stage is important as a lot of mothers find that the baby’s growth gets faster and physical changes are more noticeable.
Summary
| Pregnancy Week | Baby Size | Major Development |
|---|---|---|
| Week 21 | Carrot | Baby movements get stronger |
| Week 22 | Coconut | Facial features more defined |
| Week 23 | Grapefruit | Lungs continue to develop |
| Week 24 | Papaya | Reacts to sounds |
At the end of week 24, your baby’s hearing is more developed and his or her movements are more regular.
Pregnancy Week 21 Baby & Symptoms Development
At 21 weeks pregnant your baby is still getting more active in the womb.
Baby Size Week 21
Your baby is about the size of a carrot.
Baby Development Week 21
This week:
- Baby kicks become stronger
- Eyebrows and eyelids are more visible
- Digestive tract continues its development
- Limbs more proportional
- Baby drinks amniotic fluid
21 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
1. Baby Kicks That Are Harder
You feel movements more easily.
2. Striae
Skin stretching can continue.
3. Increased hunger
Your body needs more nutrition.
4. Slight Swelling
Hands and feet may swell slightly.
5. Pain in the back
The growing belly can strain your back muscles.
Pregnancy Week 22 – Symptoms and Foetal Development
Week 22 is still a time of growth and development for baby.
Week 22 Baby Size
Your baby is about the size of a coconut.
Week 22 Of Baby Development
Important developments are:
- More clearly defined facial features
- Lips and eyes continue to mature
- Baby’s grip gets stronger
- Develops touch
- Hormones begin to work
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 22
1. Cramps in the Legs
Muscle cramps at night are possible.
2. Growing Belly
Your bump gets bigger.
3. Raised Heat of the Body
Hormonal changes can cause increased sweating.
4. Growing Hair
Pregnancy can accelerate hair growth.
5. Difficulty Sleeping
It’s hard to find a comfortable position.
Pregnancy Week 23: Symptoms & Baby Development
Week 23 Your baby’s body systems are still developing rapidly.
Baby Size at 23 Weeks
Your baby is the size of a grapefruit.
Baby Development – Week 23
This week:
- Continued development of lungs
- Hearing improves
- Blood vessels become more visible under skin
- Muscles keep getting stronger
- The baby becomes more active
Common Symptoms of Pregnancy at 23 Weeks
1. Puffy Feet
Swelling can be caused by fluid retention.
2. Braxton Hicks
You may begin to feel some mild tightening sensations.
3. Tiredness
Your body is still doing a lot of work during pregnancy.
4. Acid Reflux
Pregnancy hormones make digestion slow.
5. Emotional Reactions
Hormonal changes affect feelings.
Pregnancy 24 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms & Baby Development
Week 24 marks an important development milestone during pregnancy.
Baby Size at 24 Weeks
Your baby is about the size of a papaya.
Foetal Development — Week 24
Major developments include:
- Hearing is more sensitive
- The baby reacts to sounds
- Still developing lungs
- Facial features more distinct
- Fat still building
Week 24 Pregnancy Symptoms: What to Expect
1. Strong Baby Movement
Kicks and stretches are more pronounced.
2. Firming the Abdomen
Braxton Hicks contractions may continue.
3. Difficulty in Breathing
Your uterus is expanding and it can press on the lungs.
4. Oedema
You might notice a bit of swelling in your feet and ankles.
5. More Famine
Your body requires more energy to grow the baby.
Baby Development: Weeks 21 to 24
The second trimester is a crucial phase for baby growth and organ development.
Key Milestones
- You hear better
- Ongoing development of the lungs
- Baby kicks more forcefully
- More defined features on the face
- Body fat starts to develop
- Greater sensory development
Your baby becomes more active, more responsive week by week.
Typical Changes In The Body Weeks 21–24
Your body is always changing to support pregnancy.
Changes in Body
- Baby bump growing
- Put on weight
- Striae
- Swelling
- More hungry
Emotional Changes
- Excitement
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Emotional connection to the baby
Hormonal changes still have impact on emotions and body changes.
Healthy Pregnancy Tips Weeks 21–24
The second trimester is still a very important time to look after yourself.
1. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Iron and calcium aid in supporting baby’s development.
2. Eat Nutritious Foods
Focus on:
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Protein
- Whole grain foods
- Dairy products
3. Drink Water
Drink a lot of water each day.
4. Rest Well
Pregnancy pillows can improve the quality of sleep.
5. Go to Your Prenatal Appointments
Checkups keep a record of your baby’s growth and health.
6. Exercise Safely
Walking and prenatal yoga can help with circulation and stress relief.
When to See Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you have:
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Swelling rapidly
- Extreme dizziness
- Decreased foetal movement
Getting prompt medical care can help promote a healthy pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
Mom and baby reach some exciting milestones during weeks 21 through 24 of pregnancy. Your baby has grown from the size of a carrot to a papaya by this stage, and the lungs, hearing, muscles and body systems are still rapidly developing.
Many women notice changes in their bodies, feel the baby move, and experience a growing belly, swelling, stretch marks, and increased appetite. Eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, going to your prenatal appointments and getting enough rest can all help support a healthy pregnancy journey.
Every pregnancy is different so symptoms and body changes can vary from woman to woman. If you are ever concerned about your pregnancy symptoms or the movements of your baby, it’s always best to talk to your health care provider about them.
Helpful Pregnancy Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the baby at 24 weeks pregnant?
At 24 weeks, the baby is about the size of a papaya.
Can the baby hear sounds at 24 weeks?
Yes. During this stage the baby’s hearing is getting better.
What is Braxton Hicks?
These are light practice contractions that get the body ready for labour.
Pregnancy Swelling: Is It Normal?
Mild swelling of the feet and ankles can be normal in pregnancy.
Why are the babies’ movements getting stronger?
As the baby gets bigger and muscles become stronger, it is easier to feel movements.
