Today, let’s take a look at all the changes that occur in the body of the baby and mother during the 20th week of pregnancy.
Today, let’s find out what the fetus and pregnant woman look like at 20 weeks of pregnancy. The 20th week of pregnancy is the midpoint of pregnancy. At this time, the main organs of the fetus are already in place, and the sex of the baby can be confirmed by ultrasound.
A nine-month gestation period is truly a miracle. Every week during pregnancy, the body of the fetus and mother changes. Therefore, it is important to know in advance what is going on at this time.
By 20 weeks of pregnancy, you are almost halfway through. At this time, the baby’s shape and proportions are already fully human, and the mother can perceive the baby’s movements and kicks.
20 weeks Pregnant Baby
Height and Weight
At this time, the length of the baby is about 21 cm, which can be said to be about the size of a banana. It weighs about 250-300 g. From this period until the end of pregnancy, the baby’s weight increases about 10 times and doubles in size.
Baby’s Development
In the mother’s womb, the sound is somewhat distorted by the amniotic fluid that protects the baby, but the baby can already hear it. The baby listens to her mother’s heartbeat and voice, and to her own heartbeat. In addition, the baby can even recognize the mother’s emotions.
The baby’s brain develops sensory areas such as smell, taste, sight, and hearing. Thus, the baby can perceive light, swallow, urinate, and recognize music.
Baby’s Organs
Besides the senses, the baby’s brain already has 30 billion neurons. The stomach, liver and digestion tracts are as of now contained in the stomach pit, and the lungs and gastrointestinal system are developing.
The toes and fingers are also formed and very flexible. In addition, the basis of the teeth is formed. Babies have hair on their heads and thin eyebrows.
Baby Hiccups
It is normal for mothers to feel rhythmic tapping from time to time. This is because she can cause babies to hiccup in the womb. So we should not stress a lot over her. This happens because her baby’s diaphragm is not yet mature and she experiences convulsions.
20 weeks Pregnant Woman
By the 20th week of pregnancy, the mother’s uterus is three times its original size. Normally, the upper part of the uterus reaches the same level as the navel. On the other hand, the belly becomes wider and larger, and it is easy to recognize that you are already pregnant.
Symptoms in the Mother
Increased fatigue: This is normal as the baby and uterus grow and gravity shifts. You may also be sleepier and need frequent breaks.
Hypotension: Hypotension can occur due to the pressure exerted on the aorta by the uterus.
Varicose veins onset: Especially in women who are prone to this disease. To prevent varicose veins, it is recommended to use special socks and regular leg rests.
As more blood is pumped through the body, the heart rate increases.
The gums become inflamed and bleed. Because of hormonal changes, your gums respond differently to bacteria.
Ultrasound and Analysis
At the 20th week of pregnancy, a detailed ultrasound examination is performed to evaluate the morphological parameters of the baby.
In this anatomical scan, the doctor checks the development of the organs (heart, structure of the head, kidneys, spine, and stomach). The doctor will also check the placenta and amniotic fluid.
Ultrasound can also show the sex of the baby. This screening also includes blood tests and anti-toxoplasma antibody tests.
Recommendations
- Do not stand for more than 3 hours and take breaks whenever necessary.
- Eating iron-rich foods can help your baby develop and maintain adequate oxygen levels.
- Listen to music and sing to your baby. Music can be a great way to connect mothers and babies. It is a source of encouragement and well-being for both.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid gum discomfort.
Conclusion
Above all, it is very important to remain calm. This is because anxiety and serenity are sensations that the baby can already perceive in the womb. Therefore, when the mother is nervous, the tension is transmitted to the baby.
In summary, taking good care of your baby and yourself is very important to enjoy your pregnancy.
