Louise 
Pregnancy Week 20: What to Expect This Week
Pregnancy Week 20 is a major milestone: you’re halfway there. Whether it feels like time’s flying or dragging its swollen feet, you’re now officially on the downhill slope to meeting your baby. Cue equal parts excitement and how is this my life?
Let’s unpack what’s happening this week.
Baby at Pregnancy Week 20
Your baby is around 25cm long and weighs about 300g—roughly the length of a banana (but thankfully less bruisable).
This week is all about fine-tuning:
The 20-week anatomy scan usually happens now—checking baby’s growth and development
Baby’s nervous system is developing fast, helping with movement and coordination
They’re swallowing amniotic fluid and practising breathing
You might notice more defined movements—kicks, flutters, rolls (and the occasional bladder bounce)
They’ve even got tiny fingernails now
This scan can feel exciting—and a little nerve-wracking. That’s totally normal. It’s a detailed look at baby’s progress, and you’ll often get a glimpse of their face (or at least an elbow or spine that looks suspiciously cute).
Your Symptoms at Pregnancy Week 20
With baby growing and your uterus now up at belly button level, you might be noticing:
A visible bump (no more pretending it’s just bloat)
Backache, especially if you’re sitting or standing for long periods
Increased appetite—baby’s having a growth spurt, and so are you
Stretching skin, maybe even the start of stretch marks
Heartburn or indigestion (smaller meals can help)
Feeling baby move more regularly, especially when you’re still
What to Do at Pregnancy Week 20
This week is a great chance to pause, take stock, and look ahead:
Treat yourself to something comfy—maternity leggings, pregnancy pillow, or just a sofa snack tray
Honest Midwife Thoughts
Pregnancy Week 20 is often when things start to feel real. You’ve got the scan, the bump, and probably a growing awareness that this baby actually has to come out.
This is a beautiful point to start learning—not in a panicky “I need to know everything” way, but in a gentle, empowering way. What does your body do in labour? How do you stay calm? What choices will you have?
We’ll help you answer all of that—without the drama or the fluff.
Feeling Ready? Join Us for a Class
Our top picks this week:
All live on Zoom.
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