Nerdy Weekly Baby Size: Week 20

This week for the Nerdy Weekly Baby series!

Congratulations, you’re halfway there! At 20 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a Barbasol Can from Jurassic Park (my favorite movie of all time), measuring around 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long and weighing around 10.6 ounces (300 grams). Let’s dive deeper into the science behind your growing bundle of joy and what you can expect at this stage of pregnancy.

Table of Contents

Gestational Size of Baby at 20 Weeks

At 20 weeks, your baby has undergone a significant growth spurt and is starting to look more like a miniature human being. Your baby’s head, which was once larger than the rest of its body, is now more proportional to its size, and its features are becoming more defined. Your baby’s skin is still translucent and thin, but it will start to thicken and become more opaque in the coming weeks.

Your baby’s bones are starting to harden, and its skeleton is becoming stronger and more defined. You may even be able to see your baby’s skeleton during an ultrasound at this stage of pregnancy. Your baby’s organs, including the heart, lungs, and brain, are also developing rapidly, and your baby is starting to practice breathing and swallowing in preparation for life outside the womb.

How Women Feel at 20 Weeks Pregnant

At 20 weeks pregnant, you’re likely feeling a lot of movement from your baby. You may feel your baby’s kicks, punches, and flips, and you may even be able to see your belly move when your baby is active. This can be an exciting and reassuring time, as you’re able to feel a stronger connection to your growing baby.

You may also be experiencing other physical changes, including back pain, heartburn, and constipation. As your baby grows and your uterus expands, it can put pressure on your back and cause discomfort. Heartburn is common during pregnancy as your hormones relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to flow back up. Constipation can also be a common symptom due to hormonal changes and the pressure of your growing uterus on your bowels.

On the emotional side, you may be feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety as you prepare for the arrival of your baby. You may also be experiencing mood swings due to the fluctuating hormones in your body. Remember to be kind to yourself and seek support from your partner, family, and friends if you need it.