20 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms: Week 20 Of Pregnancy And Prenatal Care

Updated:June 25, 2025 | Published:December 23, 2024 | ByPamela Li

20 weeks pregnant symptoms include overactive bladder, forgetfulness, stretch marks, bleeding gum, increased appetite, round ligament pain, and leg cramps. Other 20 weeks pregnancy symptoms are heartburn, breast changes, piles, swollen ankles and feet, hypotension, and hot flashes.

20 weeks pregnant (5 months) is a significant milestone as you’re halfway through your pregnancy. Week 20 of pregnancy is exciting because the foundations for your baby’s brain development have been laid.

The 20-week fetal cerebral cortex has acquired its full set of neurons, according to a 2018 Croatia study, “Cognitive Functions of the Fetus,” by Asim Kurjak et al., published in the Ultraschall in der Medizin-European Journal of Ultrasound. A baby’s cerebral cortex is responsible for many higher-order brain functions, including sensory processing, motor control, cognitive functions, emotional processing, consciousness and awareness, executive functions, and information integration. Cortex neurogenesis (production of new neurons) is largely complete. The cortex enters a critical developmental stage at week 20, focusing on neuron differentiation and specialization, synaptic formation (forming a protective sheath around nerve fibers), and neural circuit refinement.

Myelination of the medial longitudinal fasciculus starting at week 20 is another important neurodevelopmental milestone, according to a 1995 Japan study, “Progress of myelination in the human fetal spinal nerve roots, spinal cord and brainstem with myelin basic protein immunohistochemistry,” by Soichiro Tanaka et al., published in Early Human Development.

Fetal movement (FM) increase is another important milestone. Your baby’s movement is more noticeable at week twenty of pregnancy.

A 20-week pregnant belly is more prominent as the baby grows. When the fetal growth rate accelerates, the uterus rapidly elongates, and the walls thin, according to a 2017 study, “Biomechanics of the human uterus,” by Kristin M. Myers et al. at Columbia University, published in Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Systems Biology and Medicine.

Week-20 pregnancy symptoms include body aches, such as back pain, leg cramps, and round ligament pain, described in a 2018 study, “Musculoskeletal pain and symptoms in pregnancy: a descriptive study,” conducted by Serdar Kesikburun et al. at Gülhane School of Medicine and published in Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease. Increased blood flow to the skin, causing a “pregnancy glow,” is another symptom noted at this stage.

At twenty weeks pregnant, your physical exam typically includes measurements of your belly size, blood pressure, and your baby’s heartbeat. A detailed ultrasound is performed to check the baby’s development. The baby’s sex is revealed through ultrasound if desired and if it hasn’t been determined in other tests already. Fetal anomaly scans are also commonly conducted at this stage to detect any potential structural abnormalities.

Prenatal care, such as attending regular antenatal appointments, eating a nutritious diet, and taking essential vitamins, is necessary during the 20-week pregnancy.

What are the Pregnancy Symptoms during Week 20?

20 weeks pregnant symptoms include overactive bladder, forgetfulness, stretch marks, bleeding gum, increased appetite, round ligament pain, and leg cramps. Below are common 20 weeks pregnancy symptoms.

1. Overactive Bladder (Increased Urination): Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is the increased frequency and urgency of micturition (urination), usually with a nocturia (waking up at night to urinate). A 20-week-pregnant mother with OAB often experiences a strong feeling of urgency to empty her bladder and has frequent urination. Urinary incontinence (UI) accompanies OAB in some women and affects their quality of life. Overactive bladder is a urogenital symptom experienced by most mothers during pregnancy. Many women are bothered by this symptom, and the feeling increases with increasing gestational age. Overactive bladders tend to decrease in prevalence rapidly after childbirth.
2. Pregnancy Brain (Forgetfulness): 20-week pregnant mothers often have a “baby brain.”  Pregnancy brain or baby brain refers to the subjective decline in cognition in up to 81% of pregnant women. Forgetfulness, reading difficulties, confusion, disorientation, poor concentration, increased absent-mindedness, and reduced motor coordination are manifestations of slowed cognition during pregnancy. Forgetfulness has significant real-world consequences, including impaired conversational fluency at work, frequent forgetting of appointments, and difficulties with reading comprehension.
3. Stretch Marks (Striae Gravidarum or SG): Stretch marks are lesions (damaged skin). SG affects up to 90% of women and appears in the second or third trimester. Stretch marks start as pink to violaceous (pink to purple). Stretch marks is sometimes oedematous (swollen) or pruritic (itchy). Stretch marks mature into white, shiny, atrophic, and crinkly streaks.
4. Bleeding and Swollen Gum (Pyogenic Granulomas or Pregnancy Tumor): A gingival pyogenic granuloma is a fast-growing inflammatory lump on the gum, sometimes appearing in 20-week pregnant women. The lump usually has a bumpy appearance and ranges in color from pink to red or purple. Pyogenic granulomas vary in size and bleed when touched.
5. Increased Appetite: Increased appetite is an increase in food intake, known as hyperphagia, driven by the body’s need to support the growing fetus and prepare for lactation in week twenty of pregnancy. Hormonal changes, particularly the rise in progesterone, play a significant role in stimulating appetite. Progesterone increases food intake, an essential symptom during pregnancy, to ensure that the mother and the developing baby receive adequate nutrition​.
6. Round Ligament Pain: One cause of abdominal pain in pregnancy is round ligament pain caused by stretching of the round ligament. The belly pain tends to be localized to the lower abdominal quadrants, radiating to the groin. This cramp-like pain is worse on movement and is more common in multiparous women.
7. Leg Cramps: Leg cramping at 20 weeks pregnant is intense, painful muscle contractions that typically affect the calves or feet and often occur at night, disrupting sleep. Leg cramps at night sometimes lead to daytime fatigue and poor concentration. Cramping at 20 weeks pregnant is prevalent, with up to 30% of mothers experiencing leg cramps.
8. Heartburn (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux): Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Heartburn occurs when acid flows back into the esophagus. The baby’s growing size pressures the stomach, causing acid to flow back and escape. Heartburn typically starts in the first trimester and becomes more frequent and severe in the 2nd and 3rd trimester. 20-week pregnant mothers are in their second trimester.
9. Breast Changes: The breasts swell and become tender due to increased glandular and fat tissue in preparation for lactation. At 20 weeks, your breasts likely feel fuller, often leaking colostrum before full milk production begins.
10. Piles (Hemorrhoids): Piles are swollen veins located around or inside the rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids cause bleeding, pain and discomfort, itching and irritation, prolapse, and mucous discharge during the second and third trimesters. Hemorrhoid symptoms are related to increased abdominal pressure from the growing uterus and constipation.
11. Edema (Swollen Ankles and Feet): Edema, also known as fluid retention, typically affects the lower extremities in pregnancy, causing swelling and discomfort. Edema occurs when the growing uterus pressures blood vessels, hindering blood return from the legs to the heart. About 87% of pregnant women experienced swollen ankles and feet, and around 44% noticed an increase in shoe size by the third trimester due to this swelling.
12. Drop in Blood Pressure and Anemia: Hormones like progesterone, nitric oxide, and prostaglandins cause blood vessels to relax and dilate during pregnancy, causing a natural drop in blood pressure. Blood pressure levels drop to their lowest between 20 and 24 weeks, often resulting in hypotension as pregnancy symptoms in week 20. Physiologic anemia of pregnancy develops when plasma volume increases to surpass the red blood cell (RBC) mass in the blood. Anemia results in a lower concentration of hemoglobin and thinner blood.
13. Hot Flashes: Hot flashes are sudden, uncomfortable sweating episodes and feeling very warm. Hormonal fluctuations in the twentieth week typically cause hot flashes within the first few weeks of pregnancy, similar to those experienced during menopause. Approximately 62% of pregnant mothers reported mild, weekly hot flashes.

Every pregnancy is unique. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife if you have any concerns.

What Is The Importance of Understanding Being 20 Weeks Pregnant?

The importance of being 20 weeks pregnant is that you’re at the mid-point of pregnancy. Reaching the halfway point of pregnancy marks a significant shift in the mindset of expectant mothers. Week twenty becomes a time to start preparing more actively for the baby’s arrival, such as setting up the nursery, buying baby essentials, and mentally preparing for the significant life change ahead.

Brain development is at a significant milestone where neurogenesis finishes and myelination begins. Tracking pregnancy week by week helps mothers stay informed about these milestones.

20 weeks pregnant mothers likely find out their baby’s sex through a level-2 ultrasound if they choose to. Knowing the baby’s sex makes shopping for gender-specific clothing and nursery decorations exciting.

Knowing the typical development and changes at 20 weeks helps mothers distinguish between typical pregnancy symptoms and potential red flags that require medical attention.

Week 20 is the time preeclampsia is diagnosed and requires monitoring. Preeclampsia is a severe pregnancy complication unique to humans, according to a 2023 study, “Pre-eclampsia,” by Daniel L. Rolnik et al., published in Nature Reviews Disease Primers. Pre-eclampsia is diagnosed by the sudden onset of hypertension after 20 weeks of gestation combined with proteinuria (>300 mg/day) and other maternal organ dysfunction, such as renal insufficiency, liver involvement, neurological or hematological complications, uteroplacental dysfunction, or fetal growth restriction.

Managing stress during pregnancy is critical for expectant mothers. Psychosocial stress contributes to pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia, preterm labor, and low-birth-weight infants. Antenatal maternal stress and elevated cortisol levels are associated with increased physiological and behavioral stress reactivity in newborns, according to a 2011 study, “Prenatal maternal stress programs infant stress regulation” by Davis, Elysia Poggi, Laura M. Glynn, Feizal Waffarn, and Curt A. Sandman, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

What to Expect at 20 Weeks Pregnant?

At 20 weeks pregnant, you’re officially halfway through your pregnancy. Expect to feel more quickening (baby movement), like flutters or bubbles. At 20 weeks of pregnancy, the fundus (top of the uterus) is palpable at the belly button level (umbilicus), according to a 2023 study, “Gestational Age Assessment” conducted by Naidu K and Fredlund KL at the Southeast Regional Medical Center and Campbell University and published in StatPearls.

Some OB-GYNs measure the fundal height at the 20-week prenatal appointment. The fundal height is the distance from the pubic symphysis (public bone) to the fundus in centimeters. After week 20, the fundal height matches approximately the weeks of gestation. For example, at 21 weeks pregnant, the measurement is around 21 centimeters.

A level-2 ultrasound around this time is an anatomy scan that checks your baby’s development. The anatomy scan reveals the baby’s gender, according to a 2019 study, “Sex selection and non-invasive prenatal testing: A review of current practices, evidence, and ethical issues,” by Hilary Bowman-Smart et al., published in Prenatal Diagnosis.

Backaches, shortness of breath, increased appetite, and weight gain are common symptoms during week 20 of pregnancy. Tiredness and sleeping problems are second-trimester symptoms that sometimes occur alongside itchy skin due to stretching.

How is the Baby Developing at 20 Weeks Pregnant?

The baby is developing rapidly at 20 weeks. Your baby, about the size of a banana, occupies an increasing amount of space in your uterus and experiences significant development. The fetus looks more like a human.

Fetal heart rate (FHR) decreases linearly from week 20 through term, according to a 1996 study, “Fetal Neurobehavioral Development,” by Janet A. DiPietro et al., published in Child Development.

A 20-week-old fetus has working taste buds, according to a 2017 study published in Early Human Development by Frank H. Bloomfield, Mariana Muelbert, et al. “Smell and taste in the preterm infant.”

Your baby moves more, and you feel more quickening (fetal movement) that feels like flutters or bubbles, according to a 2021 study, “Fetal movements: the origin of human behaviour” by Daniela Prayer et al. and published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology (DMCN).

Lanugo, a fine, downy hair, covers the fetus’ body to regulate temperature. Vernix caseosa, a waxy substance, starts coating the skin for protection against amniotic fluid.

The nail plate has developed over most of the nail bed on the fingers. The nail and finger grow together at 20 weeks. The nail plate is thin and koilonychia (concave shape of the nail plate), according to a 2007 study, “Nail biology and nail science,” by Robert Baran et al., published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.

The fetus is swallowing amniotic fluid, which aids in digestive system development, according to a 2016 study, “Importance of Amniotic Fluid in Gastrointestinal Development,” conducted by Dasgupta, Soham, and Sunil K. Jain at the University of Texas Medical Branch and published in NeoReviews.

The fetus has developed enough hearing that it hears your heartbeat and voice. The taste buds of the baby continue to develop. Vital organs such as the heart and brain continue to develop rapidly. Your baby begins to have rapid eye movements, according to a 2014 study, “Fetal Breathing Movements and Changes at Birth,” published in Advances in Fetal and Neonatal Physiology. The fetus starts building up adipose tissue (brown fat).

How Big is Your Baby at Week 20 of Pregnancy?

The 20-week-old fetus is about the size of a banana. The 50th percentile measurements for 20-week fetal growth are as follows: the biparietal diameter (BPD) is 47 millimeters, the head circumference (HC) is 173 millimeters, the abdominal circumference (AC) is 150 millimeters, the femur length (FL) is 32 millimeters, and the humerus length (HL) is 31 millimeters.

How do Ultrasounds Show the Gender of Your Baby?

An anatomy scan ultrasound performed around 18-22 weeks of pregnancy (second trimester) shows the gender of your baby by visually identifying the anatomy of the genitals, according to a 2012 study, “The accuracy of 2D ultrasound prenatal sex determination,” conducted by Blessing Ose-Emenim Igbinedion and Theophilus Oriazo Akhigbe at the University of Benin in Nigeria and published in the Nigerian Medical Journal. The sonographer (sonologist) looks for the visualization of the vulva, clitoris, and labia in a female fetus or the scrotum, penis, descended testicles, and penile midline raphe in a male fetus. Visualization of the internal pelvic structures, such as the presence of the uterus and ovaries, besides the genitals, helps determine the sex.

Ultrasound is sometimes used to determine a fetus’s sex as early as 11 weeks of pregnancy. The sonographer analyzes the direction of the genital tubercle during a first-trimester ultrasound. The fetus is considered female if the tubercle points down. The fetus is considered male if the tubercle points upward.

The “sagittal sign” is another method used in the first-trimester ultrasound to determine the fetus’ sex. The sagittal sign involves examining the genital region in the midline sagittal plane for a caudal notch (female) or a cranial notch (male).

The accuracy of sex determination through ultrasound increases with gestational age. Research has found that the accuracy increases from 70.3% at 11 weeks to 98.7% at 12 weeks and 100% at 13 weeks. However, gender determination using ultrasound is not foolproof due to issues like suboptimal fetal position.

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) with cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) provides higher accuracy in sex determination, according to a 2013 study, “ Non-invasive prenatal testing for fetal sex determination: is ultrasound still relevant?” conducted by Claire Colmant et al. in France and published in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology.

What are the Key Developmental Milestones of Babies at Week 20 of Pregnancy?

The key developmental milestones of a 20-week-old fetus include neurogenesis completion, myelination starting, and fetal movement increase. Here are the 13 significant milestones of babies at week 20 of pregnancy.

1. Size and weight: At 20 weeks, the fetus is about the size of a banana. Key measurements are biparietal diameter (BPD) of 47 millimeters, head circumference (HC) of 173 millimeters, abdominal circumference (AC) of 150 millimeters, femur length (FL) of 32 millimeters, and humerus length (HL) of 31 millimeters.
2. Completion of cortex neurogenesis: The fetal cortex has acquired its full set of neurons.
3. Neuron differentiation and specialization: The cerebral cortex focuses on synaptic formation, myelination, and neural circuit refinement.
4. Myelination of the medial longitudinal fasciculus: This process forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers.
5. Increased fetal movement: The fetus exhibits increased movement, which is noticeable to the mother as quickening (flutters or bubbles).
6. Development of taste buds: The fetus has developed working taste buds.
7. Hearing development: The fetus hears sounds, including the mother’s heartbeat and voice.
8. Rapid eye movements: These begin, indicating further neurological development.
9. Growth of lanugo: A fine, downy hair covers the fetus’s body to help regulate temperature.
10. Development of vernix caseosa: A waxy substance starts coating the skin for protection against amniotic fluid.
11. Formation of nail plates: The nail plate has developed over most of the nail bed on the fingers.
12. Swallowing amniotic fluid: This aids in the development of the digestive system.
13. Accumulation of adipose tissue: The fetus builds up brown fat, essential for maintaining body temperature after birth.

Week 20 of pregnancy includes remarkable milestones, such as the completion of neurogenesis, the start of myelination, and increased fetal movement. It’s essential to stay informed and aware of health indicators when 20 weeks pregnant.

How To Know If Your Baby Is Healthy During Week 20 Of Pregnancy?

To know if your baby is healthy during week 20 of pregnancy, look for the following three key indicators.

1. Fetal Movement: Feeling your baby move is a reassuring sign of their well-being. Your subjective sense of your baby’s movements is critical, according to a 2008 study, “Fetal Movement Assessment” by J. Frederik Frøen and Vicki Flenady, published in Seminars in Perinatology. If you notice a decrease in activity, contact your obstetrician immediately. Rather than focusing on specific counts, trust your perception of what’s normal for your baby.
2. Prenatal Checkups: Regular visits to your OB-GYN are essential for monitoring your health and your baby’s development. During these appointments, your doctor will measure your belly to check for proper growth, listen to your baby’s heartbeat, and address any concerns you have.
3. Ultrasound and Screening Tests: Around 18 to 22 weeks, a level 2 ultrasound and other screenings are typically performed. These tests allow your healthcare provider to examine your baby’s organs, limbs, and overall growth and detect potential developmental abnormalities.

Every pregnancy is unique, so it’s essential to communicate with your doctor if you have concerns about your baby’s well-being. If you notice a decrease in fetal activity, notify your OB-GYN immediately.

Why is Lanugo More Important Starting 20 Weeks in Pregnancy?

Lanugo is important because it densely coats almost all fetal skin by 20 weeks in pregnancy to bind the vernix caseosa to the skin. Lanugo is the first generation of human hair that appears in fetuses in week 18 and disappears after week 33. Lanugo is fine, soft, silky, and glossy. Lanugo hair is up to 5-77 millimeters. Lanugo has no pigment or medulla, according to a 2009 study, “Novel mechanism of human fetal growth regulation: A potential role of lanugo, vernix caseosa and a second tactile system of unmyelinated low-threshold C-afferents” conducted at ​​St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical Academy and published in Medical Hypotheses.

Vernix caseosa is a viscous white covering. Vernix caseosa prevents water loss and plays a vital role in thermoregulation to maintain proper body warmth. Vernix caseosa contributes to innate immunity by protecting the delicate fetal skin from damaging substances in amniotic fluid, such as urea and electrolytes. The interaction of lanugo with the vernix is essential in controlling the tempo of the fetal developmental rate, according to a 2018 study guide, “Embryology, Lanugo,” by Verhave BL, Nassereddin A, and Lappin SL, published by StatPearls Publishing in Treasure Island (FL).

Is It Possible Not To Feel Any Fetal Movement At 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Yes, it is possible not to feel any fetal movement at 20 weeks pregnant. However, talk to your OB-GYN regarding not feeling any fetal movement. Your obstetrician will perform examinations or tests, if necessary, to ensure your baby is healthy.

There is no “correct” time to start feeling fetal movement. One study found that the mean time for first fetal movement perception is week 17 in a 2018 study, “A frequently asked question: Is it normal not to feel my baby’s movements yet?” conducted at Kayseri Training and Research Hospital and published in the Journal of the Chinese Medical Association. The study examined 423 pregnant women and found that those with a lower BMI, older age, more frequent prenatal care follow-ups, posteriorly located placenta, and higher education levels were associated with earlier detection of fetal movements.

What can You Do if Don’t Feel any Fetal Movement?

Consult your OB-GYN immediately if you don’t feel any fetal movement at 20 weeks pregnant. Only your obstetric care provider can determine what you can do. Do not rely on the Internet to diagnose the issue or find a solution to your pregnancy health problems. Your obstetrician will recommend different measures depending on your unique situation.

Antepartum fetal surveillance is suggested by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) in pregnancies with a high risk of antepartum fetal death, as detailed in the 2000 “ACOG Guidelines on Antepartum Fetal Surveillance” by Monica Preboth, published in American Family Physician. The 6 antepartum fetal surveillance techniques include fetal movement assessment, nonstress test, contraction stress test, fetal biophysical profile, modified biophysical profile, and umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry.

What Are The Changes In The Mother’s Body At 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Changes in the mother’s body at 20 weeks pregnant include growing belly, weight gain, and quickening. Here are 9 changes in the mother’s body at week 20 of pregnancy.

1. Growing Belly: Your uterus has now risen to about the level of your belly button and is becoming more noticeable.
2. Fetal Movement: You start feeling your baby move for the first time or more movement.
3. Weight Gain: Your weight gain includes the baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, and uterine growth.
4. Breast Changes: Hormonal shifts lead to breast enlargement and tenderness.
5. Darkened Skin: Skin pigmentation variations like a linea nigra line down your stomach, which is outlined in a 2017 article, “Physiologic changes of pregnancy: A review of the literature,” published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology.
6. Thickened Hair: Some women notice thicker hair due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, according to Laurel Naversen Geraghty et al.’s 2011 study “Physiologic changes and dermatoses of pregnancy,” published in the International Journal of Dermatology.
7. Increased Appetite: Your body needs extra calories for the baby’s rapid brain growth; hence, you feel hungrier.
8. Body Aches and Stretch Marks: These are common as everything grows rapidly.
9. Itchy Skin: Often experienced due to stretching skin on the abdomen and breasts.

At 20 weeks pregnant, many mothers-to-be experience various changes, from a growing belly and weight gain to feeling quickening. These developments, together with a growing belly, signal a vibrant phase in pregnancy as the body adapts to support the growing life within.

How Big is a 20 Weeks Pregnant Belly?

A 20 week pregnant belly is around 20 centimeters in fundal height (distance from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus).

At 20 weeks, your baby is about the size of a banana. The amniotic fluid surrounding your baby and the developing placenta significantly contribute to your belly’s growth. This fluid provides essential cushioning for your baby’s movements and supports overall nutrition needs throughout mid-pregnancy.

However, research has found that the size of your belly does not necessarily indicate the health or development of your baby, according to a 2022 study, “Pregnancy: Learn More – Weight gain in pregnancy,” by

What are the Tips for Prenatal Care during Week 20?

The tips for prenatal care during week 20 include attending OB-GYN visits, performing ultrasound scans, and deciding on screening tests. Here are 6 tips for antenatal care at 20 weeks pregnant.

1. OB-GYN Visits: Attend regular antenatal visits, where doctors monitor maternal health and the baby’s development through various weeks of gestation, including week 20.
2. Ultrasound (Anatomy Scan): Undergo an ultrasound scan around this period, which offers a detailed look into a baby’s growth, ensuring everything progresses smoothly on the path toward birth.
3. Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein Screen (MSAFP or Multiple Marker Screen): This blood test screens for neural tube defects and specific chromosomal abnormalities.
4. Quad Screen or Penta Screen: These optional blood tests assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome and trisomy 18.
5. Urine Test: This routine test checks for protein and sugar in your urine, which indicates conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
6. Mental Health Support: Pregnancy is often emotionally challenging. Consider talking to a therapist or counselor if you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress.

Prenatal care is highly individualized. It’s important to discuss your specific needs and preferences with your OB-GYN to determine what’s best for you and your baby. Along with tailored prenatal care, maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for your baby’s development and well-being during week 20.

What Types of Foods are Beneficial to Eat during Week 20 of Pregnancy?

During week 20 of pregnancy, consume a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support your health and your baby’s development. Here are 15 types of foods beneficial to eat during week 20 of pregnancy, recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

1. Calcium (1,000 milligrams for ages 19 to 50): Builds strong bones and teeth. Examples: Cheese, dark green leafy vegetables, sardines.
2. Iron (27 milligrams): Makes red blood cells and helps deliver oxygen to your fetus. Examples: Lean red meat, iron-fortified cereals, poultry.
3. Iodine (220 micrograms): Essential for healthy brain development. Examples: Eggs, seafood, iodized table salt.
4. Choline (450 milligrams): Important for developing your fetus’s brain and spinal cord. Examples: Peanuts, milk, and soy products.
5. Vitamin A (770 micrograms for ages 19 to 50): Helps form red blood cells and helps the body use protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Examples: Sweet potatoes, green leafy vegetables, carrots.
6. Vitamin C (85 milligrams for ages 19 to 50): Promotes healthy gums, teeth, and bones. Examples: Citrus fruit, tomatoes, strawberries.
7. Vitamin D (600 international units): Builds bones and teeth and helps promote healthy eyesight and skin. Examples: Fortified milk, sardines, sunlight.
8. Vitamin B6 (1.9 milligrams): Helps form red blood cells and helps the body use protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Examples: Bananas, whole-grain cereals, ham.
9. Vitamin B12 (2.6 micrograms): Maintains nervous system and helps form red blood cells. Examples: Fish, milk, poultry.
10. Folic acid (600 micrograms during pregnancy): Helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spine and supports the general growth and development of the fetus and placenta. Examples: Dark green leafy vegetables, orange juice, beans.
11. Grains: Sources of folic acid, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. Examples: Barley, brown rice, quinoa.
12. Fruits: Sources of vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Examples: Fresh fruit, dried fruit, canned fruit.
13. Vegetables: Sources of calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Examples: Raw vegetables, dried vegetables, canned vegetables.
14. Protein: Sources of protein, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Examples: Nuts, meat, seafood.
15. Dairy: Sources of calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Examples: Pasteurized milk, yogurt, cheese.

What Exercises Can You Do During Week 20 of Pregnancy?

During week 20 of pregnancy, here are some exercises you can do, as advised by the 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour:

1. Walking – A simple yet effective way to stay active during the 20th week.
2. Running – If you were a runner before pregnancy, it’s generally safe to continue, though consult your healthcare provider.
3. Swimming – Provides a full-body workout and helps reduce swelling.
4. Stationary Bicycling – A low-impact exercise that’s safe during week 20.
5. Stretching – Helps maintain flexibility and alleviate some pregnancy-related discomfort.
6. Pelvic Floor Muscle Training – Essential to prevent urinary incontinence during and after pregnancy.

Aerobic activities enhance cardiorespiratory fitness, while muscle-strengthening exercises boost muscular health. Pelvic floor exercises can be done daily to reduce the risk of urinary incontinence.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises each week for optimal health benefits. Moderate-intensity activities feel like a 5 or 6 on a scale of 0 to 10 relative to your maximum effort.

If you haven’t been active, start with small amounts of physical activity and gradually increase the duration, intensity, and frequency. Even some physical activity benefits your health and your baby’s development.

Remember to avoid exercising in extreme heat and high humidity. Keep hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after physical activities. Steer clear of exercises that involve physical contact, a high risk of falling, or limit oxygenation, such as activities at high altitudes if you’re not accustomed to them.

These guidelines and exercises are based on the 2020 WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour.

What Are The Things To Avoid At 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Here are 20 things to avoid at 20 weeks pregnant.

1. Alcohol: Steer clear of all alcohol during pregnancy to prevent developmental problems and birth defects like fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). A 2020 study, “Alcohol Use in Pregnancy,” conducted at Oregon Health and Science University and Oregon State University, highlights the cognitive and behavioral impairments caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
2. Smoking and Secondhand Smoke: Smoking heightens the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. According to a 2020 study, “Exposure to Tobacco, Environmental Tobacco Smoke and Nicotine in Pregnancy,” published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, quitting smoking as soon as possible is crucial.
3. Recreational Drugs: Avoid all recreational drugs as they cause significant health issues for your developing baby.
4. Cannabis: Like other recreational drugs, cannabis use during pregnancy often results in low birth weight and developmental delays.
5. Caffeine: Limit caffeine intake to 200mg per day to reduce the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight, as excessive consumption is linked to these issues.
6. Certain Medications and Supplements: Consult your doctor before taking any medications or supplements to ensure they are not harmful during pregnancy.
7. High Mercury Fish: Avoid consuming mercury-rich fish, such as swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, and shark.
8. Undercooked or Raw Meat: Avoid eating undercooked or raw meat to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria.
9. Unwashed Vegetables and Fruits: Always wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly to avoid toxoplasmosis.
10. Deli Meats: Only consume deli meats if thoroughly heated to avoid bacteria such as Listeria.
11. Unpasteurized Foods: Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and soft cheeses like brie and feta, which often carry harmful bacteria.
12. Bagged Salads: Pre-packaged salads tend to harbor bacteria and must be avoided.
13. Iron Supplements: Only take iron supplements if your doctor prescribes them.
14. Extreme Diets: Avoid rapid weight loss or restrictive diets as they tend to disrupt hormone levels and affect ovulation.
15. Excessive Exercise: While moderate exercise is beneficial, excessive or intense workouts negatively impact ovulation and hormone balance.
16. Strenuous Activities or Contact Sports: Avoid activities with a high risk of falling, abdominal trauma, or heavy lifting.
17. Exposure to Chemicals and Toxins: Steer clear of household cleaners, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals.
18. Hot Tubs and Saunas: Avoid high temperatures from hot tubs and saunas, as they harm the developing fetus.
19. Gardening: Wear gloves while gardening to avoid contact with contaminated soil.
20. Cat Litter: Practice proper hygiene when changing cat litter, especially for outdoor cats, by wearing gloves and washing hands thoroughly. Indoor cats on prepackaged food pose minimal risk.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on things to avoid at 20 weeks pregnant.

Should You Start Studying about Braxton Hicks at 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Yes, you should start studying about Braxton Hicks contractions at 20 weeks pregnant. Braxton-Hicks contractions (prodromal or false labor pains) are contractions of the uterus that typically are felt in the second or third trimester. They feel like mild menstrual cramps or tightening of the abdomen that comes and goes. Braxton-Hicks contractions are the body’s way of preparing for true labor, but they do not indicate that labor has begun, according to a 2017 study guide, “Braxton Hicks Contractions,” by Raines DA and Cooper DB, published by StatPearls Publishing in Treasure Island (FL).

Understanding what Braxton Hicks contractions are and how they affect your uterus helps differentiate between muscle preparation and actual labor. Learning about Braxton Hicks contractions enables you to decrease anxiety if they occur.

Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be triggered when a woman is very active, when the bladder is full, wallowing in sexual activity, and when the woman is dehydrated.

However, there are no laboratory tests to diagnose Braxton Hicks contractions. If you experience contractions, contact your OB-GYN, who will help you assess if you are experiencing labor or Braxton Hicks contractions.

What Are The Possible Complications That Can Happen At 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Possible complications at week 20 of pregnancy include preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. Below are the potential complications that can happen at 20 weeks pregnant.

• Preterm Labor: Birth occurs early, between 20 and 37 weeks of gestation, as outlined in Jeff A Keelan and John P Newnham’s 2017 study, “Recent advances in the prevention of preterm birth,” conducted at the University of Western Australia King Edward Memorial Hospital and published in F1000Research. Risk factors include previous preterm birth, multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets), and specific uterine abnormalities. Signs of preterm labor include contractions, back pain, and fluid leakage.
• Preeclampsia: A pregnancy complication after week 20 characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys, according to a 2023 study “Pre-eclampsia” conducted by Jon Hyett, Kypros Nicolaides, Daniel L. Rolnik, Clare Whitehead, Ellen Menkhorst, Guadalupe Estrada-Gutierrez, et al. and published in Nature Reviews Disease Primers. Risk factors include first pregnancy, obesity, age over 40, multiple gestation, and family history of preeclampsia. Signs include swelling in hands/feet/face, severe headaches, and vision changes. Diagnosis is based on new-onset hypertension (blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg) along with proteinuria or evidence of maternal organ dysfunction or uteroplacental dysfunction.
• Gestational Diabetes: High blood sugar during pregnancy. Risk factors include obesity, previous gestational diabetes diagnosis, and family history of diabetes. There are no specific symptoms, but gestational diabetes is detected through glucose screening tests, usually between 24–28 weeks pregnant.

Can Preeclampsia Happen after 20 Weeks in Pregnancy?

Yes, preeclampsia happens after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a severe condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems. This disorder poses significant risks for both mother and baby if left untreated.

Primary causes include hypertension and problems with the placenta. Signs are high blood pressure, protein in the urine, severe headaches, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, sudden facial or hand swelling, and decreased urination.

It’s essential to consult your OB-GYN immediately if you experience these symptoms.

How can a Partner Support the Mother at 20 Weeks Pregnant?

At 20 weeks pregnant, a partner can support the mother in the following 7 ways.

1. Emotional Support: Listen actively and validate her feelings. Offer encouragement. Plan special moments like surprise dinner dates or thoughtful gifts.
2. Patience & Understanding: Respect her process and try to empathize with her needs.
3. Household Chores: Help with cleaning and cooking.
4. Prenatal Appointments: Attend appointments together.
5. Physical Tasks Assistance: Take on any physical tasks they find uncomfortable, such as lifting.
6. Healthy Activities Together: Partake in healthy activities like walking or prenatal yoga.
7. Educate Yourself About Pregnancy: Research pregnancy stages together.

What Prenatal Tests Are Needed At 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Routine prenatal tests at 20 weeks pregnant include an ultrasound (anatomy scan). This ultrasound checks your baby’s development from head to toe, examining the formation of fetal organs and body systems, the placenta, and the amniotic fluid levels.

Other tests include amniocentesis if there are concerns or risks identified in early pregnancy. During this week’s prenatal care appointment, expect detailed fetal screening tests that assess overall growth and look for any abnormalities, according to a 2009 study guideline, “Screening for fetal aneuploidy and neural tube defects,” written by Deborah A. Driscoll, Susan J. Gross, and Professional Practice Guidelines Committee and published in Genetics in Medicine.

Always discuss any questions about prenatal testing with your OB-GYN for personalized guidance tailored to you at 20 weeks pregnant.

When Should You Call For Your Doctor If Something Feels Wrong?

Call your doctor if you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe headache.

1. Decreased fetal movement: Unusual changes in your baby’s movement call for immediate attention. A noticeable decrease in fetal movement sometimes signals complications, such as fetal growth restriction or stillbirth.
2. Chest Pain: A sign of serious conditions such as heart attack or angina, according to a 2018 study, “The Impact of Pregnancy on the Evaluation of Chest Pain and Shortness of Breath in the Emergency Department,” conducted by Stephen M. Wagner, Timothy A. Deimling, Emily R. Smith, et al. at Penn State Hershey Medical Center.
3. Shortness of Breath: A sign of asthma attacks, infections, or even lung blood clots.
4. Severe Headache: A severe headache that doesn’t improve signals conditions like migraines or serious concerns such as aneurysms.
5. Confusion: Experiencing confusion or changes in mood unexpectedly often indicates various urgent health issues, including brain injuries or infections, as described in a 2020 study, “Neurologic infections during pregnancy,” conducted by Alexandra S. Reynolds, Kiran T. Thakur et al. and published in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology.
6. High Fever: Persistent high fever over 100.4°F (38°C) requires evaluation for possible infections.
7. Vaginal bleeding/fluid leakage: Uncontrolled bleeding needs immediate care.
8. Intense abdominal pain/cramping not subsiding

There are no set rules. When you feel something isn’t right, trust your instincts and immediately contact your obstetrician’s office for personalized advice tailored to your medical history and condition specifics.

What are the 20 weeks pregnant symptoms not to ignore?

20 weeks pregnant symptoms not to ignore include decreased fetal movement, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, higher fever, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, and intense belly pain. Always trust your instincts during pregnancy. If something feels off at week twenty, reach out to your OB/GYN or healthcare provider, even if you aren’t experiencing any specific symptoms that seem alarming. You are the best judge of how you feel.

Are There Prenatal Vitamins That Must be Taken During Week 20 of Pregnancy?

Yes, 10 prenatal vitamins and minerals are needed during week 20 of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) emphasizes the importance of folic acid (400 micrograms), calcium (1,000 milligrams for ages 19 to 50), iron (27 milligrams), iodine (220 micrograms), choline (450 milligrams), vitamin A (770 micrograms), vitamin C (85 milligrams), Vitamin D (600 international units), Vitamin B6 (1.9 milligrams), and Vitamin B12 (2.6 micrograms).

What does Parenting Styles Suggest about 20 Weeks Pregnant?

Parenting Styles suggests more self-care at the 20th week of pregnancy. The 20-week mark in pregnancy is often a pivotal milestone for expectant mothers. At this halfway point, the realization of their baby’s impending arrival suddenly becomes more tangible, often triggering a whirlwind of emotions, including stress and anxiety.

“To manage stress effectively, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation into your routine,” advises Pamela Li, writer, Founder, and Editor-in-Chief of Parenting Styles.

Li emphasizes, “Prioritizing sleep and rest is important. Adequate sleep is vital for maintaining mental health and well-being during this significant time.”

Congratulations on being 20 weeks pregnant!