Welcome to the halfway mark of your pregnancy journey! At 20 weeks, life is buzzing with excitement as you anticipate the arrival of your little one. By now, you might be feeling a surge of energy, enjoying your comfy maternity wear, and perhaps even feeling those delightful baby kicks for the first time.
Your Body at Week 20
Halfway There!
Congrats on reaching the 20-week milestone! This week marks the midpoint of your pregnancy. You should be gaining around half a pound each week from here on out, but don’t worry if it fluctuates slightly, as long as your healthcare provider gives you the green light. If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to start sleeping on your left side; this position helps improve blood flow to your baby by relieving pressure from your uterus on the vena cava, a vital blood vessel.
What to Expect During Your Anatomy Scan
This week is significant for several reasons. If you didn’t find out your baby’s sex with the NIPT test, the anatomy scan is your chance! Just be sure to let the technician know if you want to keep it a surprise. The two-hour scan will allow a detailed look at your baby’s growth, focusing on essential organs like the heart, kidneys, and spine. To get the clearest ultrasound images, drink plenty of water beforehand so your bladder is full.
Your Baby at Week 20
Baby’s Size and Development
At this stage, your baby is about 10 ounces and nearly 7 inches long, roughly the size of a slice of pumpkin pie. Interestingly, your baby’s taste buds are developing, and they may even experience flavors from your meals, especially if you indulge in spicy or garlicky dishes.
If you’re expecting a boy, his testicles will begin to descend this week, which should be visible during the scan. For those having a girl, her uterus, ovaries, and vaginal canal are maturing rapidly. Additionally, your baby is now coated in a creamy protective substance called vernix caseosa, which shields them from the amniotic fluid and helps regulate their temperature. This week also marks the beginning of meconium production—the baby’s first poop, made up of everything they’ve ingested in utero.
Your Symptoms and Health at Week 20
Watch for Preeclampsia Signs
As you continue your pregnancy, both you and your healthcare provider should keep an eye out for signs of preeclampsia. Symptoms can include severe headaches, vision changes, and pain beneath the ribs. If you notice any of these, reach out to your doctor immediately.
Dizziness and Blood Pressure
With your blood volume significantly increased, low blood pressure and dizziness can become more common. When transitioning from sitting to standing, do so slowly to avoid feeling faint. Staying hydrated is also crucial to prevent these symptoms.
Varicose Veins and Hemorrhoids
You might notice varicose veins forming due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes. To manage this, elevate your feet, wear compression stockings, and stay active. Hemorrhoids may also arise, especially if you’re experiencing constipation. Warm baths, witch hazel pads, and a fiber-rich diet can provide relief.
Expecting Multiples?
If you’re pregnant with twins, this anatomy scan might be the first time you learn their genders, provided no previous tests were done. You’ll also likely start feeling more consistent movements, so those little flutters will become more recognizable. From this week on, you can expect to have scans every four weeks to monitor your twins’ growth.
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In summary, week 20 of your pregnancy is an exciting time as both you and your baby undergo significant changes. Embrace the journey, pay attention to your body, and enjoy this special moment in your life!