Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, and each stage brings new experiences, changes, and excitement. Around the 20-week mark, you’re halfway through your pregnancy, a major milestone. The second trimester, often considered the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy, brings many physical and emotional changes, and it’s the time when many expectant parents start to feel more connected to their growing baby. Here’s what you can expect at the 20-week mark.

Your Baby’s Growth And Development
When pregnant 20 weeks, your baby is growing rapidly. On average, your baby is about the size of a banana, measuring roughly 6 inches long and weighing around 10 ounces. Though still small, they are developing features that are becoming more recognizable. The baby’s eyes have fully formed, and while the eyelids remain shut, they can respond to light and movement. Their bones continue to harden, and tiny nails are growing on their fingers and toes.
The baby’s movements may be becoming more noticeable at this point. These movements, often described as gentle flutters, are a reassuring sign that your baby is active and growing. By now, you may begin to feel these movements more consistently, and in some cases, the baby’s kicks can even be felt on the outside of the belly.
Changes In Your Body
As you reach the halfway point, your body adjusts to the growing life inside you. The uterus is expanding to accommodate your baby’s growth and may be visible as a noticeable baby bump. For some women, the second trimester is when they feel more energetic and less nauseous, especially if morning sickness was a challenge earlier.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. You might experience some discomfort as your body adapts. Common symptoms at this stage include:
- Round ligament pain: As the uterus expands, you may feel a sharp or cramp-like pain on the sides of your abdomen.
- Increased appetite: With the baby’s growth, your body may signal for more calories so that you may eat more.
- Skin changes: Some women experience changes in their skin, such as the darkening of the skin along the middle of the abdomen (linea nigra) or darker areolas.
Ultrasound And Anatomy Scan
Around the 20-week mark, you’ll typically have your anatomy scan or mid-pregnancy ultrasound. This is one of the most exciting and comprehensive ultrasound exams during pregnancy, as it provides a detailed look at your baby’s development. The technician will measure the baby’s growth, check for anatomical abnormalities, and assess the placenta’s position.
If you choose to learn the sex of the baby, the anatomy scan is often when you’ll find out. Many parents look forward to this moment to confirm the gender or simply to see their baby’s face, hands, and feet in vivid detail.
Health Considerations
As with every stage of pregnancy, it’s important to stay on top of your health and prenatal care. At the 20-week appointment, your doctor will check in on your baby’s health and discuss any concerns you might have. You may be asked about symptoms like swelling, changes in vision, or any unusual discomforts.
- Weight gain: At this point, you’ll likely start gaining more weight as your baby and your body continue to grow. The amount of weight you should acquire depends on your pre-pregnancy weight, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Blood pressure checks: Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial, as high blood pressure can lead to complications like preeclampsia.
- Prenatal vitamins: Continue to take your prenatal vitamins with folic acid, essential for your baby’s neural development.
Emotional Changes
Pregnancy isn’t just about physical changes; emotional shifts are part of the journey, too. Around the 20-week mark, many women reported feeling more emotionally stable compared to the first trimester. The hormonal fluctuations that cause mood swings may stabilize, leaving you more in control of your emotions.
However, the anticipation of meeting your baby and the emotional highs of pregnancy can also bring about moments of anxiety. It’s normal to feel nervous about the challenges ahead, but talking about your feelings with your partner, family, or healthcare provider is important.
Preparing For The Second Half Of Pregnancy
As you enter the second half of your pregnancy, it’s a good time to start thinking ahead. You’ll likely begin preparing for the birth and making more decisions about your birth plan, where you’ll deliver, and who will be present. Some expectant parents may start shopping for baby clothes, nursery furniture, and other essentials.
By 20 weeks, the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy is in full swing for many women, with less nausea, more energy, and growing excitement. While it’s important to continue with routine prenatal care, it’s also a time to enjoy the experience and begin preparing for the arrival of your little one.
The Bottom Line
Reaching the 20-week mark is an exciting milestone in your pregnancy. You’ll likely feel your baby moving and see more of their growth and development through ultrasounds. Your body is changing, and while the second trimester may be easier than the first, monitoring your health and well-being is important. Most importantly, savor this special time as you prepare for your baby’s arrival in the second half of your pregnancy.