Pregnancy week 20

Your baby’s development

Week 20 is the halfway point of pregnancy. Your baby is about the length of a banana. From this week on, length is measured from head to heel, so the number appears to jump compared with earlier weeks. Your baby did not suddenly grow; only the way of measuring changed. The legs can stretch out and extend, and the body is covered with fine hair and the vernix coating. Hair and eyebrows are becoming clearer and the nails begin to grow. Your baby swallows, yawns and even gets hiccups, which you may feel as small rhythmic jolts. A sleep and wake pattern is starting to settle. The sensory areas of the brain are developing quickly. During these weeks the baby's organs can be assessed in detail on ultrasound. Measurements are averages. Development moves at its own pace in every pregnancy; your doctor interprets ultrasound measurements, and small differences are usually ordinary.

Changes in the mother

You are at the halfway mark: your belly is clearly growing and your belly button may start to push outwards. The top of the uterus is reaching about the level of the navel. In a first pregnancy, movements usually become clearer around now, feeling like kicks, rolls or little pops. If you have not felt anything yet, that is often within the usual range, but if you are approaching week 22 and still feel no movement, tell your doctor. Breathing can get a little harder as the uterus rises towards the diaphragm. Heartburn and gas are common as well. Small meals, not lying down right after eating, and propping yourself up with pillows help. For back aches you might consider gentle exercise, a warm compress or a massage. Congratulate yourself on this milestone; everything you do matters for your baby.

To do this week

• Book or check the date of your detailed ultrasound (usually weeks 18–22/23).
• Plan your second antenatal visit (usually weeks 18–24).
• Note the times you feel movements.
• Consider a pregnancy or support pillow.

Tip for the partner

Join the ultrasound appointment; seeing the baby together can be a special moment.

Nutrition tip

Whole grains and pulses add fibre and can help prevent constipation.