You
Wow, you’re already half-way through your pregnancy – well done! Your uterus has expanded into your abdomen by now. In fact, by 20 weeks, the top of your uterus will reach your bellybutton and will grow about a centimetre each week. An aching sensation in your lower abdomen is related to the stretching of muscles and ligaments supporting your bump.
On the topic of bumps, you are likely to be considerably bigger at this stage. Now is the time to get adjustable maternity pieces for your wardrobe. It would also be wise to put away all shoes with heels for the time being. Flat shoes will be more comfortable for you and safer as your centre of gravity shifts with your blossoming belly.
You’ll be starting to feel your baby move more often – it’s an exciting time. His initial wiggles may feel like butterflies in your stomach, but they are actually your future gymnast doing somersaults in-utero.
Baby
Your baby is now the size of a banana and is busy practising swallowing by gulping down amniotic fluid each day. This provides him with hydration, but also enables him to develop his digestive system. At this stage, your baby-to-be has probably managed to digest amniotic fluid and produce meconium, a tarry black substance which will eventually become your baby's first poo. What an achievement!
Photo: Fetus at 20 weeks - Scan provided by Sydney Ultrasound for Women
2nd Trimester Week by Week
Week 13Week 14
Week 15
Week 16
Week 17
Week 18
Week 19
Week 20
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26
1st Trimester
(Weeks 1-12)
3rd Trimester
(Weeks 26-40)
Related Articles
* When baby starts to kick* Pregnancy preparation classes
* Get the birth you want
* Pregnancy nutrition articles
* More pregnancy health articles
* A-Z of pregnancy suprises
Image Partners
0 Comments