You’re 20 weeks pregnant!
What does 20 weeks equal in months?
At 20 weeks, you’re now considered 5 months pregnant and in your second trimester. You’re halfway there, it’s almost time to meet your new baby.
Your ultrasound
If you haven’t had an ultrasound yet, you likely have one scheduled very soon. Your doctor will be checking to make sure the baby is growing well. The scan will ensure the baby’s spine, brain and heart are all developing well and you’ll be able to take home some adorable ultrasound images of your little one. If you’re lucky and the baby is positioned just right, you may also be able to find out the sex of your baby at this ultrasound.
Your pregnant belly at 20 weeks
As long as you are not carrying twins, your doctor will continue to measure your 20 week pregnant belly to ensure the fundal height is on par. Fundal height measures the length from the top of the uterus to the pubic bone. At 20 weeks pregnant, your fundal height should be around 19 – 20 centimeters in length. Your doctor uses this method to rule out pregnancy issues like breech presentation or gestational diabetes. If you are 20 weeks pregnant with twins, your doctor will focus more on your weight gain to rule out any pregnancy conditions.
Pregnancy tips at 20 weeks
- Your doctor will be checking your weight gain. Ideally you want to start gaining about up to one full pound per week after week 20 of pregnancy.
- You may notice that your legs, ankles and feet are beginning to swell as a result of extra fluids. Elevate your feet when you can and keep salt intake to a minimum. Sudden extreme swelling can indicate a problem so be sure to keep an eye on that as well.
Your pregnancy checklist at 20 weeks
- If you’re signing up for a baby registry, now is the time to do that and get it sent out to friends and family.
- Begin thinking about any celebrations you want to have around your pregnancy; will it be a baby shower or sprinkle party? Do you need to make arrangements for a socially distanced baby shower to accommodate family around the country during the global pandemic? Start making arrangements for this now if it’s something you want to have total control over.
What are you eating for you and your baby?
Iron-deficiency anemia is common during pregnancy so be sure you’re eating an iron-rich diet at 20 weeks pregnant. You can get sufficient iron from foods like poultry, fish and lean red meats. Opt for iron-fortified cereals and ask your doctor if iron supplementation is a good choice for you. Round out your diet with foods such as:
- Starches and carbohydrates
- Leafy green vegetables
- Lean proteins like fish, poultry and red meat
- fruits and vegetables
