What’s happening to the mother in week 21 to 23?
You are now halfway through your pregnancy. You may feel that you are physically and mentally preparing for childbirth and becoming a parent. Many people find that they are focussing more attention on their impending child and less on the outside world.
The ligaments of your pelvis become increasingly elastic. For some women, standing or walking can be painful. Standing up and climbing stairs can also be difficult.
Development of the fetus
By now, the foetus is about 28 cm long and weighs around 475 grams, but both length and weight can vary from pregnancy to pregnancy.
The lungs and airways continue to develop and the foetus is gradually preparing to breathe air after birth. The pancreas also starts to produce hormones, including insulin, which is crucial for the body to regulate blood sugar.