Week 20: Mid-pregnancy
The twentieth week is the middle of pregnancy! You have completed half the journey to meeting your baby.
Baby size: Banana (70-75 mm)
Baby development
Future gourmet with an active brain
Your baby is actively swallowing amniotic fluid, training its digestive system. The taste of this fluid changes depending on what you eat, so it is already becoming familiar with various flavors.
What’s happening this week:
- Digestive system: Meconium begins to form in the intestines — the baby’s first stools, consisting of dead cells, mucus, and amniotic fluid.
- Skin: It thickens and now consists of several layers. Beneath the protective keratin layer, subcutaneous fat continues to develop.
- Brain and nervous system: Development proceeds at a rapid pace, establishing connections responsible for movement and sensory organs.
- Movements: Movements become more coordinated and stronger. You may feel them more clearly.
Your fetus weighs about 300 grams, and its length from crown to heel is approximately 25 centimeters.
Follow the amazing changes of your baby in the article "Fetal Development by Weeks".
Changes for mom
Umbilical "button" and other changes
Your uterus has reached the level of the navel, and due to internal pressure it may "pop" outward, turning into a button. Don't worry, after delivery it will return to its usual shape.
What you may notice:
- Growing belly: Now your pregnancy is obvious to everyone.
- Heartburn and digestive issues: The uterus presses on the stomach, which can intensify these symptoms.
- Light swelling: May appear on the legs and arms, especially at the end of the day.
- Surge of energy: You are still at the peak of second‑trimester energy.
These and other changes are a normal part of pregnancy. To learn more, read our article "Physical changes of the body during pregnancy".
Overview
Week 20: Pregnancy Equator!
Congratulations, you are halfway there! The twentieth week is the psychological and physical equator of your pregnancy. You have covered half the distance, and this is a great opportunity to look back and realize the incredible work you have done.
Your baby is now the size of a small banana. This is also the week when a detailed anatomical ultrasound is usually performed, during which you can not only see your baby but also learn its sex if you wish.
For you, this is the time when the belly can no longer be hidden. Your uterus has reached the level of the navel. You are probably feeling well and enjoying this period when the pregnancy is obvious but does not yet cause significant discomfort.
Half the journey is completed! This is a huge achievement. Celebrate this moment and, with renewed strength, prepare for the second half of your amazing journey.
There is still a lot of interesting ahead. Learn more about this stage in our detailed overview of the second trimester.
Tips for mom
Main ultrasound and birth planning
This week brings important medical and personal decisions. Stay informed and confident.
What to do:
- Undergo an anatomical ultrasound. This is the most detailed examination of your baby. Don’t hesitate to ask the doctor questions.
- Start writing a birth plan. This is a document where you can specify your wishes for the birth process. Even if things don’t go as planned, it will help you organize your thoughts.
- Eat small, frequent meals. To avoid heartburn, try to eat 5–6 times a day in small portions.
- Drink enough water. This helps reduce swelling and prevent constipation.
Creating a birth plan is an important step toward conscious motherhood. Start with our article "Birth Plan".
Tips for partner
"Date" with the baby and shared dreams
This week gives you a unique opportunity to see your child in detail and start building even more concrete plans.
Your active involvement:
- Be present at the ultrasound. Your support matters. Moreover, it’s your chance to see your baby waving a hand or sucking a finger.
- Discuss the results together. Share emotions after the ultrasound. If you learned the sex, it’s a great excuse to dream about the future.
- Help her stay comfortable. Offer a massage, help find a comfortable resting position.
- Start learning about birth together. The more you know, the less fear there will be, and the more effective your assistance will be.
Understanding your role in the upcoming process will help both of you. Start by reading the article about partner births.
Checklist
Your action plan for week 20
Equator! Time for important tasks and pleasant moments.
- ✅ Undergo the second scheduled ultrasound (anatomical scan).
- 🎉 Celebrate the pregnancy "equator".
- 📝 Start working on your birth plan.
- 💧 Monitor your water balance by drinking enough fluids.
- 🗣️ Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor, such as back pain or swelling.
- 📚 Learn more about the birth process itself, by reading the article "Stages of labor".