BABYCENTRE UPDATES...21 WEEKS

You are now 21 weeks pregnant (or in your 22nd week if that's how you prefer to count it).

How your baby's growing

Your baby could measure about 27cm/10-and-a-half inches from crown to heel. Her eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed and her fingernails now cover her fingertips. Watch what you say from now on because she will probably hear you. You can communicate by talking, singing (use our lullaby lyrics, if you're a bit rusty) or why not try reading aloud? Some studies suggest a newborn will suck more vigorously when you feed if you read from a book frequently heard in utero. Choose a children's classic, take a look at some of our parent's favourites or use one of your own books - whatever you prefer.

How your life's changing

It's hard to be graceful when you're pregnant so don't be surprised if you find yourself getting more clumsy these days. You're carrying more weight, your centre of gravity has changed with your growing uterus, and your fingers, toes, and other joints are all loosening, thanks to the effect of pregnancy hormones. Try to watch where you're going, and if you haven't already done so, say goodbye to high heels. They make keeping your balance more difficult, and can cause backaches.

Just how much weight you will gain by the end of pregnancy may be preying on your mind. Doctors are much more relaxed about weight gain in pregnancy now. Take the same approach and give yourself a break. It's also best not to worry immediately about losing weight after you've had your baby as your body can take anything from a few months to a year to recover nutrients used up during pregnancy.

Do see your doctor, however, if your weight is soaring or plummeting. Your doctor will usually check to see if your bump is measuring about right for your dates. If you are large-for-dates further investigations can be arranged to find out why.