21 weeks

At 21 weeks, you are now approaching 5 months.

Now your baby's hearing is forming. The bones of the inner ear is harder and more solid. Baby is now 19cm long from crown (head) to rump (bottom) and weighs 460grams. Almost half a kilo!

Your baby will be covered in vernix. This is a protective coating from all the liquid he is swimming in. The vernix is a mixture of fatty secretions and makes baby waterproof and not so wrinkly.  You may see evidence of it when your baby is born especially in the creases of their skin.

Your body has probably changed shape and you may carry yourself differently as your belly comes out and is rounder. Gentle exercise is a good idea. As a rule of thumb, if you were active before falling pregnant, keep it up. If not so active so don't all of the sudden get sporty! Yoga and swimming as well as walking are all ideal and can help you feel more in shape and more able to deal with the pains you may feel.

Often sexual desire may be higher during the middle of the pregnancy - in the second trimester. Of course all women and couples are different and it can also vary in each pregnancy. My hormones and emotions are very intense and so my feelings vary day to day!  Unless there ia=s a medical reason not to, sexual activity will not harm your baby and is good for you and your relationship. Enjoy!

Massage is a wonderful way of relieving tension and if you have a willing partner, all the better. Unfortunately I haven't convinced my husband to be so willing. It can be an intimate experience and help with communication and bonding.

Remember eating for two is not exactly right. You have more nutirtional requirements it is true but portions should not feed two adults! Eat for hunger and try to choose healthy foods where possible.