Exciting Times: Pregnancy Milestone – Week 20 Revealed

Due dates are only an estimate. Statistically, 96% are incorrect. If you are currently pregnancy 20 weeks pregnant, then you are due in approximately 20 weeks or 140 days. Due dates are calculated at 40 weeks of pregnancy, but your baby might be born between 37 and 42 weeks. Some are born earlier and some later. Put simply, labour happens when your body and baby are ready!

Use our pregnancy calculator to work out when you might be due.

As your baby continues to grow, your body is working hard to keep up. You’re probably noticing all kinds of changes as your pregnancy reaches this exciting midpoint.

A growing bump and posture shifts

At pregnancy 20 weeks pregnant your belly is becoming more pronounced, which can shift your centre of gravity. This might mean changes to your posture or balance, some occasional wobbles, or unwelcome backaches. Maintaining good posture and practising gentle stretching can help this week.

Changes in circulation

• Increased blood flow. By 20 weekspregnant, your blood volume has increased significantly, ensuring your baby gets all the oxygen and nutrients they need. This can make your veins more visible, especially on your legs, chest, or hands.
• Varicose veins. It’s not uncommon to develop varicose veins at 20 weeks pregnant – those enlarged, swollen veins that often appear in the legs – due to extra pressure on your blood vessels. If this happens, keeping your legs elevated while sitting down or wearing compression socks can help ease any discomfort.
• Nosebleeds and congestion. Thanks to increased blood flow and ongoing hormonal changes, your nose may feel a bit stuffy at the moment, and you might even experience the occasional nosebleed.

Increased vaginal discharge

If you’ve noticed an increase in vaginal discharge, fear not. This is completely normal and actually beneficial – it’s your body’s way of preventing infections. The thin, milky-white discharge is called leukorrhea and helps keep the vagina clean. While it might feel unfamiliar or even inconvenient, it’s a sign that your body is doing exactly what it should. However, if the discharge changes in colour (yellow, green, or grey), develops a strong odour, or is accompanied by itching or irritation, it’s best to check in with your healthcare provider to rule out infections like thrush or bacterial vaginosis. 

At 20 weeks pregnant, you are typically halfway through your pregnancy, and many women begin to experience a mix of physical and emotional changes. Here are some common symptoms that women may experience within their body at 20 weeks pregnant:

• Baby Movement: You might start feeling the baby move, which can feel like flutters or gentle kicks. This is often referred to as “quickening” and is a normal part of your babys development.
• Growing Belly: Your belly continues to grow, and the uterus is about the size of a cantaloupe at 20 weeks. Your skin might start to stretch, causing some mild discomfort.
• Round Ligament Pain: As your uterus grows, the ligaments supporting it stretch, which can cause sharp or dull pain on either side of your abdomen.
• Increased Blood Flow: The extra blood volume needed during pregnancy can lead to more visible veins, especially on your breasts and belly.
• Back Pain: Your body’s center of gravity shifts as your belly grows, putting pressure on your lower back and hips.
• Heartburn or Indigestion: As your uterus pushes on your stomach, it can cause digestive issues like heartburn or acid reflux.
• Breast Changes: Your breasts may be larger, tender, or you might notice darker areolas. The body is preparing for breastfeeding.
• Increased Vaginal Discharge: It’s normal to experience more discharge as your body produces extra fluid during pregnancy. It should be clear or milky, but if it’s accompanied by a strong odor or color changes, consult your doctor.
• Leg Cramps: Some women experience leg cramps at night, which are thought to be caused by changes in circulation.
• Skin Changes: You might notice a “pregnancy glow” due to increased blood circulation, or you may have more breakouts. Some women also develop stretch marks on their belly, thighs, or breasts.
• Fatigue: Although you might feel more energetic than earlier in pregnancy, fatigue can still be common as your body continues to adjust.
• Emotional Changes: Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings or heightened emotions.

It’s important to note that every pregnancy is unique, and not all women will experience these symptoms, or they may experience them to varying degrees. If you have any concerns or if you experience severe or unusual symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider.

Now let’s dive into ‘Pregnancy Milestone: Week 20 Insights Revealed’. Between week 18 and week 20 of pregnancy, many women have their anomaly scan, if they haven’t already. Also called a level 2 ultrasound or simply the ‘20-week scan’, the appointment is entirely optional and will be offered to you by your midwife. It provides an in-depth look at your baby’s development and overall health, including:

• Assessing your baby’s organs, bones, and limbs, including the brain, heart, kidneys, and spine.
• Examining the placenta’s position, function, and blood flow.
• Checking for any structural abnormalities or markers that may indicate certain conditions.
• Revealing your baby’s sex (if you choose to find out).

Here are some practical tips to help you feel ready for your 20-week scan:

• Drink water beforehand. A partially full bladder can improve image clarity, but you don’t need to be uncomfortably full. Be sure to follow your hospital’s guidance on this.
• Wear comfortable clothing. Opt for a two-piece outfit (like leggings and a top) to make it easier to expose your belly without fully undressing.
• Allow enough time. The scan usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but if your baby is in a tricky position, you might need to move around a bit before the scan can happen.
• Bring support if you’d like. Many parents feel reassured having a partner, friend, or family member with them. Remember to check your hospital’s policy on guests ahead of time.
• Be prepared for any outcome. Most scans are reassuring, but if anything unusual is found, your healthcare provider will explain the next steps to you clearly.
• Decide if you want to know your baby’s sex. Whether or not you decide to find out, let your sonographer know at the start.

If you’re eager to know whether you’re having a boy or a girl, the 20-week scan is often the moment of truth. While not always 100% accurate, sonographers can usually identify your baby’s sex based on their position and development.

Some parents can’t wait to find out and tell their friends and family, while others prefer to keep it a surprise until birth. There’s no right or wrong choice, and it’s entirely personal – just be sure to communicate with your sonographer at the beginning of your scan. If you’re planning a gender reveal, they can write it down discreetly for you.

Of course, babies don’t always cooperate! If your little one is curled up, facing the wrong way, or crossing their legs, it might be tricky to get a clear view. In that case, you could be asked to move around, take a short walk, or even return for another scan on a different day.

You’ve made it halfway through pregnancy, and there’s so much to look forward to in the coming weeks. While your baby continues to grow, keep making time to care for yourself – stay active, get plenty of rest, and reach out for support when you need it. With each passing week, you’re getting closer to meeting your little one!

Be sure to check out the Butterbean knowledge hub for your week by week guide to pregnancy plus lots more from birth to babe in arms. Did you know we also have courses? Check out our multi award-winning hypnobirthing and pregnancy yoga courses today!