Week Twenty Pregnancy

You Are

Congratulations! You’re halfway through your pregnancy. Your 20-week pregnancy comes with an even more obvious baby bump and an increased energy. Round ligament pain becomes apparent to many pregnant women as the baby bump develops. Skin discoloration, firmer nails and the appearance of a linea nigra (a dark line down your belly) are other observable changes that you may undergo.

It’s a special time to have your mid-pregnancy ultrasound, which is usually scheduled around this time. In this ultrasound, your healthcare provider will evaluate your baby’s growth, health, and position, and if you wish, will tell you the gender of your baby. Your uterus has risen to the level of your navel, and you should feel those first baby movements, which are usually referred to as flutters or mini kicks.

Ensure that you focus on a healthy diet, drink lots of water, and do soft exercises like walking or prenatal yoga. When swollen, take a break with your feet elevated and concentrate on drinking a lot of water.

Your Baby

At the end of your 20th week, your baby is approximately 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long from head to bottom and weighs about 10 ounces (283 g), which is about the size of a banana. Because your baby is quickly developing his or her sense of hearing, interactive moments such as talking or singing are great ways to strengthen your bond.

Vernix caseosa, a waxy substance, protects your baby’s skin and helps regulate body temperature. Your baby’s digestive system develops and they begin to learn how to swallow amniotic fluid to prepare for nursing after birth.

Your baby’s movements at this stage are clearly stronger and more stable. If you haven’t felt your baby’s movements yet, it’s only a matter of time before you do!