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Your pregnancy at Week 20

Highlights: #

Your Baby at Week 20 #

Your little thumbsucker?
Your baby is working on their sucking reflexes and may even use their thumb for practice.

Gender reveal
The second-trimester ultrasound, usually done between 18 and 22 weeks, can detect your baby's gender if you want to know.

The big week?
If you didn't feel your baby's movements last week, you may start feeling punches and kicks this week.

Your Body at Week 20 #

Halfway there!
You're at the midpoint of your pregnancy, and your baby bump is becoming more apparent. Your nails might be stronger, and your hair could be growing faster and feeling thicker.

Feeding your growing appetite
You may be experiencing a hearty appetite, but it's best to continue with the grazing approach to eating to prevent tummy troubles.

Pregnancy Symptoms in Week 20 #

Heartburn and indigestion
Chewing sugarless gum after meals can help neutralize gastric acids and force fluids back into the stomach, reducing heartburn.

Occasional headaches
Fresh air breaks and dressing in layers can help avoid overheating and trigger fewer headaches.

Faintness or dizziness
Stay cool, take frequent breaks for fresh air, and wear loose-fitting clothes to minimize light-headedness.

Leg cramps
Put your feet up when possible and stay hydrated to improve blood circulation and reduce leg cramps.

Edema (swelling in feet and ankles)
Wear comfy shoes and avoid tight socks or pantyhose to reduce swelling in your lower extremities.

Your innie becoming an outie
As your uterus pushes your abdomen forward, your belly button might morph from an innie to an outie, but it will return to its original state after delivery.

Things to Take Care in Week 20 #

Girl, boy or surprise?
You can find out your baby's sex during your ultrasound if you wish, but remember that sonographers can sometimes be wrong.

Are those tummy bubbles or baby kicks?
If you haven't felt your baby's movements yet, you might mistake them for butterflies or gas. Consult your practitioner for guidance.

Start your baby registry
If you haven't done so already, consider starting a baby registry to keep track of essential gear before your little one arrives.

Stretch but don't overstretch
Stretch safely during exercise to avoid injury as your muscles and ligaments stretch during pregnancy.

Stave off anemia
Consider an iron supplement and eat iron-rich foods with vitamin C to prevent anemia.

Choose oil-free skin care
Look for "non-comedogenic," "unscented," and "oil-free" products to prevent clogged pores.

Go nuts for nuts
Nuts are nutritious and safe to consume during pregnancy, possibly lowering the baby's risk of nut allergies.

FAQs #

Question: When can I find out my baby's gender?
Answer: You can find out your baby's gender through the second-trimester ultrasound, typically scheduled between 18 and 22 weeks.

Question: How can I distinguish baby kicks from other sensations?
Answer: If you're unsure about feeling your baby's movements, consult your practitioner for guidance on distinguishing them from other sensations.

Question: Should I find out my baby's gender or keep it a surprise?
Answer: Deciding to find out the baby's gender is a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong decision.

Question: How can I prevent heartburn during pregnancy?
Answer: Chewing sugarless gum after meals can help neutralize gastric acids and reduce heartburn.

Question: Are nuts safe to eat during pregnancy?
Answer: Nuts are safe and nutritious to eat during pregnancy and may even lower the baby's risk of nut allergies.