Baby development at 20 weeks
Baby’s Hiccups in the Womb:
If you observe subtle, rhythmic jerking movements in your baby during pregnancy, there’s no need to be concerned—baby hiccups in the womb are completely normal. Expectant mothers often start feeling these hiccups around the same time as other fetal movements, typically between 16 and 22 weeks.
Your Baby’s Developing Taste:
A significant number of your baby’s taste buds can now send taste signals to their brain. Your baby is actively swallowing molecules of the food you consume, which have traveled through your bloodstream into the amniotic fluid. While researchers aren’t entirely certain whether babies can taste these molecules, some studies suggest that your diet during pregnancy may influence your baby’s taste preferences later on.
Your baby is about the size of a banana
Pregnancy symptoms during week 20
Itchiness in the Skin
Expect to feel itchiness, particularly around your belly and breasts, as your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby. Many pregnant individuals encounter itchy skin at some point. Alleviate discomfort by using cold packs and applying moisturizer, but avoid scratching as it can exacerbate the condition. Discover additional tips for relieving itchiness and learn when it might indicate a more significant issue.
Restless Sleep
If you find yourself shifting throughout the night in search of a comfortable sleeping position, consider these suggestions: lie on your side with knees bent and a pillow between your legs. For added comfort and support, use pillows under your belly and behind your back, or try a pregnancy pillow.
Changes in Hair and Nails
Enjoy some positive pregnancy symptoms! You may notice longer nails and thicker hair at this stage. Pregnancy often results in thicker hair due to an extended growth phase caused by estrogen. Although you’re not growing more hair, the reduced hair loss during pregnancy becomes apparent three to five months after delivery. Postpartum hair loss is normal but may come as a surprise. Additionally, your nails may be growing faster and may exhibit changes such as increased hardness or brittleness.
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a common experience during pregnancy. The growing uterus puts strain on your back, and the additional weight you carry increases muscle exertion. Hormonal changes make joints and ligaments less stable. Some exercises can help prevent lower back pain, such as weight training to strengthen core muscles, stretching for increased flexibility, and swimming to reduce strain on joints. Coping strategies include prenatal massage, applying heat or cold, and learning relaxation techniques.
Constipation
Pregnancy often brings about constipation due to hormone changes, reduced activity levels, and an expanding uterus. Constipation can lead to issues like hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the rectum and anus. To alleviate constipation, increase water intake, consume high-fiber foods, engage in regular exercise, and consult your provider. They may suggest a stool softener, magnesium supplement, or a switch to prenatal vitamins with lower iron content.
Pregnancy checklist at 20 weeks
Find a pediatrician
You’ll be visiting your baby’s doctor frequently during the initial years. Gain insights into selecting the right pediatrician for your baby, ensuring a genuine connection. Seek recommendations from your ob-gyn, midwife, friends, and relatives. Confirm coverage by your insurance and consider proximity when making your choice. Arrange to meet potential pediatricians in person; while there might be a fee, it could be covered by insurance.
Indulge yourself
As you reach the midpoint of your pregnancy, take a moment to celebrate. Treat yourself to a facial, prenatal massage, or a pregnancy photoshoot to commemorate this stage. If you prefer not to spend money, engage in self-care activities such as borrowing books from the library, going for a scenic walk, or enjoying a relaxing bubble bath.
Explore intimacy
At 20 weeks pregnant, some expectant mothers may experience an increased sex drive and enhanced orgasms due to heightened blood flow and lubrication. For most women, engaging in sexual activity during pregnancy is entirely safe and beneficial. It promotes physical activity, releases happiness-inducing hormones, and fosters a closer bond with your partner. If your growing belly poses a challenge, experiment with pregnancy-friendly positions that accommodate your bump.
Release your thoughts
If stress or a racing mind hinders your ability to sleep, consider a “brain dump.” Write down all your concerns in a journal, without worrying about neatness or eloquence. The goal is to transfer your worries from your mind to the paper, aiding relaxation and a more peaceful sleep.
English 
Arabic