Learn what’s happening in week 20 of pregnancy and find out how your baby is developing.
Congratulations! You’re in the middle of your pregnancy. You’ve survived the morning sickness, fatigue, nausea, headache, and other symptoms of pregnancy so far.
Now, you’re probably starting to feel much better. There are many exciting changes happening with your baby this week. Your baby is now the size of a mango and you can finally find out if it’s a boy or a girl.
What Happens in Your Body in Pregnancy Week 20?
Many women begin to experience breathing problems this week.
The baby is growing and puts a lot of pressure on your internal organs, making it hard to breathe.
Some of the most common symptoms of pregnancy at 20 weeks include:
- constipation;
- itching;
- indigestion;
- and heartburn.
You are probably experiencing more trips to the bathroom or having trouble sleeping at night, thanks to the huge changes that are taking place in your body. Due to the increased levels of estrogen, you may even notice you’ve started to snore for the first time in your life.
The hormone estrogen causes swelling of the mucous membranes that are lining your nose and results in more mucus. Try sleeping on your side with your head slightly elevated to avoid snoring.
If you’re experiencing indigestion or heartburn during the second trimester, give yourself a few hours to digest the food before going to bed and try sleeping on your back propped up with a few extra pillows.
Pregnant women tend to feel a little warmer than usual thanks to pregnancy hormones and weight, so keep your bedroom cool and wear loose clothing made of natural, breathable fibers.
Changes in Your Body at 20 Weeks Pregnant
At this stage, you definitely look pregnant. You’re at the midpoint of your pregnancy and you can definitely feel your baby’s movements.
You may notice that your nails are stronger than usual and your hair is growing faster and is looking thicker and fuller. Pregnancy hormones and increased circulation provide extra nutrients to your nail and hair cells.
During the twentieth week of pregnancy, you may experience an increased appetite and weight gain. By now, you’ve probably gained about fifteen pounds. You can expect to gain up to one pound per week now.
Your Baby at 20 Week of Pregnancy
Your baby’s eyes have been sealed shut for weeks, but at week 20 the eyelids can finally open. The little one now weighs about 10 ounces (as much as coconut) and has a height of about six and a half inches.
Your baby is producing meconium – a dark green, sticky substance that is made of amniotic fluid and digestive secretions. This substance will be in your baby’s first poopy diaper.
Lanugo still covers the skin of your baby and the hair on the scalp is growing quickly. Baby’s well-developed limbs continue to explore by flexing, curling and kicking.
If you haven’t found out whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl, now’s your chance to take a peek. You will be able to find out your baby’s gender via ultrasound.
Pregnancy Week 20 Tips
Try to incorporate plenty of iron into your diet. Some great sources of iron include:
- dark vegetables and fruits;
- chicken;
- eggs;
- oatmeal;
- spinach;
- dried fruits;
- and leafy vegetables.
A lack of iron can cause a number of problems during your pregnancy, including anemia or premature labor.
Hemorrhoids are another common pregnancy symptom. It can cause discomfort and pain. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid straining when you’re going to the bathroom to keep hemorrhoids at bay.
