Week 20 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of a banana
10 inches · 10.5 oz
Baby this week
- •Can hear sounds from outside the womb, including your voice
- •Developing a waxy protective coating called vernix caseosa on skin
- •Swallowing amniotic fluid and practicing digestive movements
- •Fingerprints and footprints are fully formed
- •Hair is beginning to grow on the head
You this week
- •Quickening—feeling distinct baby movements that are becoming more recognizable
- •Possible lower back pain from your shifting center of gravity
- •Heartburn or indigestion as your uterus expands
- •Increased appetite as your metabolism adjusts
- •Potential braxton hicks contractions (usually painless practice contractions)
This week's tips
- •Many people have their mid-pregnancy ultrasound this week—take time to enjoy seeing your baby and ask for measurements to confirm dating
- •Practice good posture and consider prenatal yoga or stretching to ease back discomfort
- •Start thinking about your birth preferences and gather resources about different birth settings and support options
- •Connect with other pregnant people through classes or groups if that appeals to you—shared experiences can be really validating
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
You're officially at the halfway point of pregnancy. The second half brings more visible belly growth, stronger movements you'll feel daily, and a shift in how real everything becomes. This is a natural time to start making practical preparations.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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