Week 20 : Halfway there! You’ve reached the midpoint of your pregnancy! Your baby’s senses are sharpening, and their movements are getting stronger! Your anatomy scan (ultrasound) will check the baby’s growth and development. Enjoy this exciting milestone!

Mom’s Health Concerns
  • Weight gain: Expected to gain around 4.5 to 5.5 kg by now
  • Shortness of breath as the uterus pushes against the lungs
  • Possible back pain from weight distribution changes
  • Mild headaches due to increased blood circulation
  • Skin darkening (melasma or pregnancy mask) on the face
Baby Activities
  • Your baby is about the size of a banana 🍌 (~16.5 cm or 6.5 inches long) and weighs around 300 grams (10.5 oz).
  • Baby is actively kicking, stretching, and rolling
  • Developing regular sleep and wake cycles
  • Hearing is well-developed—the baby reacts to loud sounds!
  • Swallowing more amniotic fluid to practice digestion
  • Fine hair (lanugo) covers the body to keep warm
Symptoms
  • More noticeable baby kicks and movements
  • Round ligament pain as the uterus expands
  • Heartburn and indigestion due to hormonal changes
  • Mild swelling in feet and hands
  • Stretch marks becoming more visible
  • Leg cramps, especially at night
  • Increased appetite and cravings
emotional changes
  • Stronger bond with baby as movements become regular
  • Excitement or nervousness about the upcoming 20-week anatomy scan
  • Possible body image concerns—self-care is key
  • Mood swings may still occur but are more manageable
When to Call the Doctor
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Heavy bleeding or unusual discharge
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Intense headaches or vision disturbances
  • No baby movement for an extended period (if you’ve felt movement before)
safe-actions
The Good
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
green-signal
The Bad
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
red-signal
Food to Eat
  • Protein-rich foods: Eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, tofu
  • Iron sources: Spinach, red meat, beans, fortified cereals
  • Calcium for strong bones: Dairy, almonds, sesame seeds
  • Folic acid-rich foods: Oranges, broccoli, whole grains
  • Omega-3 fatty acids for brain development: Salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds
Food To Avoid
  • Raw or undercooked seafood, meat, and eggs
  • Unpasteurized dairy products
  • High-mercury fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel)
  • Excess caffeine (limit to 200 mg/day)
  • Too much salty or processed food (can worsen swelling)