Halfway there: Insights on being 20 weeks pregnant and fetal development
- Updated
- Published
Created with Hector Chapa, MD, FACOG, Clinical Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, USA
At 20 weeks pregnant, you’re halfway through your pregnancy journey. Your baby is growing quickly, reaching about the size of a banana, and you may feel more distinct movements. This week’s detailed ultrasound offers a closer look at your baby’s development and position.
Congratulations on reaching 20 weeks pregnant—you’re officially halfway through your pregnancy! This week marks an exciting milestone as your baby continues to grow and develop. This is also the time for the detailed mid-pregnancy ultrasound, where you can get a closer look at your baby’s progress. Let’s explore what’s happening this week, from fetal development to symptom management and self-care.
Femia decodes your body’s signals and helps you track progress effortlessly
20 weeks pregnant symptoms
Week 20 can bring a mix of physical and emotional changes. After 20 weeks, certain pregnancy complications may be diagnosed such as preterm labor, gestational diabetes, or preeclampsia. Here are some common symptoms at this stage:
- Increased appetite: As your baby grows, you may find yourself feeling hungrier than usual, so focus on nutrient-rich foods.
- Stretch marks: As your belly expands, some women may start to notice stretch marks on the stomach, thighs, or hips.
- Shortness of breath: As the uterus grows, it can press on the diaphragm, causing mild shortness of breath, especially after physical activity.
- Frequent urination: With the baby and uterus putting pressure on the bladder, you may feel the need to urinate more often.
- Baby movements: Many women experience regular baby movements called quickening, especially after meals or during quiet times.
👉Find out more: Week 19 of pregnancy: What’s happening with your baby and bump
Your body at 20 weeks pregnant
At 20 weeks, your uterus is continuing to grow, reaching just below your belly button, and making your bump more defined. You may also notice physical changes like weight gain and some new stretch marks. Using a pregnancy weight gain calculator can help you monitor healthy weight gain. Hormonal shifts can affect your skin, so staying hydrated and using moisturizer can be beneficial. Since you’re halfway through your pregnancy, this is a good time to check in with your healthcare provider to discuss weight gain and overall health, ensuring you’re on track for the remainder of your pregnancy.
20-week pregnant belly
By week 20, your belly may feel firmer and more rounded, with a prominent bump as your uterus expands upward. Many women find that maternity clothes are more comfortable by this stage, and your growing bump may attract attention from friends and family excited for your journey.
Baby development at 20 weeks pregnancy
At 20 weeks, your baby’s growth is marked by increased muscle development and improved coordination. They’re practicing essential reflexes and may be more active, especially in response to external sounds. Their senses are also developing, allowing them to hear your heartbeat and the muffled sounds of your voice. A layer of fine hair, known as lanugo, covers their body, helping to regulate temperature as they grow. The nervous system is maturing, and the baby’s movements become more coordinated, allowing them to kick, stretch, and even roll.
20-week baby size
The 20-week baby size is around 6.5 inches long and weighs approximately 10.5 ounces, comparable to the size of a banana. This week marks a period of rapid growth as your baby continues to develop essential systems and functions.
20-week ultrasound
The 20-week ultrasound is often called the anatomy scan, providing a detailed look at your baby’s organs, spine, and limbs. During a 20-week ultrasound 3D or 4D scan, you may see a clearer view of your baby’s face, hands, and feet. The ultrasound technician may also be able to confirm your baby’s gender if you choose to find out. This scan is an important milestone, allowing healthcare providers to ensure your baby is growing and developing well.
Position of a baby in the womb at 20 weeks
At 20 weeks, your baby still has plenty of room to move, so their position can change frequently. The baby may be head-down, breech, or even sideways. As pregnancy progresses, the baby’s position will become more consistent in preparation for birth.
Tests to expect at 20 weeks of pregnancy
- 20-week anatomy scan: A comprehensive ultrasound that provides detailed insights into the baby’s development, including heart, brain, spine, and other vital organs.
- Regular checkups: Expect a check on your blood pressure, weight, and urine to monitor for signs of preeclampsia or infection. As your pregnancy advances, your office visits may become more and more frequent as you approach the term.
- Fundal height measurement: Your healthcare provider may start measuring fundal height, which assesses fetal growth by measuring from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus.
Health tips and self-care at 20 weeks pregnant
- Eat balanced, frequent meals: With an increased appetite, focus on nutrient-dense foods to support you and your baby’s growth.
- Stay active safely: Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help relieve discomfort and promote circulation.
- Use moisturizer for stretch marks: Applying a pregnancy-safe moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated as it stretches, though genetics play a large role in stretch mark formation.
- Prioritize sleep: As your belly grows, consider using a pregnancy pillow to support comfortable sleep positions, especially on your side.
Femia decodes your body’s signals and helps you track progress effortlessly
Questions from the Femia community
How to deal with stretch marks?
Using a pregnancy-safe moisturizer daily can help with itchiness and dryness, but stretch marks are largely determined by genetics. Staying hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods may also support skin health.
How to know if my weight gain is okay? How much should I gain?
Most women gain about 10-12 pounds by the 20-week mark, but this varies. For a basic check, you can also use a pregnancy weight gain calculator. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure your weight gain aligns with your specific health needs and pregnancy goals.
How often should I feel baby movements?
Baby movements vary, but many women notice them more regularly around week 20, especially after meals or during quiet times. Movements will become more consistent as pregnancy progresses.
The bottom line
At 20 weeks pregnant, your baby is developing more refined movements and senses, and you may feel kicks more distinctly. Your body is adapting to these changes with a growing belly and new symptoms. Prioritizing a balanced diet, safe exercise, and skincare can help you manage these shifts as you reach the halfway point of your pregnancy journey.
References
- “20 Weeks Pregnant: Symptoms, Baby Development & Tips.” BabyCenter, www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/20-weeks-pregnant.
- “Week 20 of Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development & More.” What to Expect, www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week-20.aspx.
- “20 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Development, Symptoms & Tips.” NHS, www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/week-by-week/1-to-12/20-weeks/.
- “Pregnancy Week 20: What to Expect.” American Pregnancy Association, www.americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/week-by-week/20-weeks-pregnant/.
Learn about the impact of nutrition on conception and pregnancy and explore a list of recommendations on foods to avoid.
Causes and symptoms of anovulation, a condition where you not ovulating but still have regular menstrual cycles. Discover options to address this common reproductive issue.
Discover what’s happening at 10 weeks pregnant, including baby’s growth, symptoms you may feel, and when you may hear a heartbeat.
