Trimester 2
20 weeks pregnant: Halfway there
Here is what to expect this week for you and your baby.
Baby Size Banana (kela) 16.4 cm A banana (~25.6 cm head-to-heel). Measurement switches from CRL.
Baby Development
- Halfway mark! Baby weighs about 300g
- Developing regular sleep and wake cycles
- Meconium (first stool) forming in intestines
- Skin thickening with layers
Common Symptoms
- Belly button may pop outward
- Swelling in ankles and feet (oedema)
- Heartburn and indigestion increasing
- Shortness of breath with exertion
Tips & Advice
- Celebrate the halfway milestone!
- Elevate feet when resting to reduce swelling
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals for heartburn
- Start researching paediatricians
Nutrition Guide
- Antacid foods: cold milk, saunf (fennel) water
- Potassium-rich: banana, sweet potato, avocado
- Anti-inflammatory: turmeric milk (haldi doodh), ginger
Medical Checklist
When to see your doctor at week 20
Some symptoms need attention right away. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital if you notice any of these:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking a pad within an hour)
- Severe or persistent abdominal or pelvic pain
- Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
- Sudden severe headache, blurred vision or upper-abdominal pain (possible preeclampsia)
- Decreased fetal movement after week 24 (fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours)
Frequently asked questions
Halfway — what to plan?
Hospital tour, antenatal classes, baby essentials, paternity leave, final maternity provider.
Lots of vaginal discharge?
Mild milky leukorrhea is normal. Itching, burning or odour need a swab.
Braxton-Hicks tightening?
Irregular, non-painful tightening is normal. Regular painful contractions before 37 weeks are not.
For partners
Take the hospital tour together — reduces day-of stress.
Prepare for your OB visit
- Picked a delivery hospital? Tour now?
- Watch-for signs of preterm labour?
Medical review Awaiting medical review
Last reviewed