• Vaginal discharge: An increase in vaginal discharge is common due to hormonal changes. If the discharge is odourless and clear or milky white, it's likely normal.
• Leg cramps: You may experience leg cramps, especially at night. Staying hydrated, stretching regularly, and massaging the affected area can help alleviate the discomfort.
• Heartburn or indigestion: As your uterus grows, it can put pressure on your stomach, leading to heartburn or indigestion. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding spicy or fatty foods may help.
• Swelling: Swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands is common due to increased fluid retention. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help reduce swelling.
• Itchy skin: As your skin stretches to accommodate your growing belly, it may feel itchy. Moisturising regularly can help soothe the itchiness.
• Restless sleep: Finding a comfortable sleeping position may become more challenging. Using a pregnancy pillow can provide support and improve sleep quality.
• Shortness of breath: As your uterus expands, it can put pressure on your diaphragm, leading to shortness of breath. This is normal but consult your doctor if it becomes severe.

 Baby’s Growth in the Womb

• Organ Development: Your baby's digestive system is producing meconium, a greenish-black substance that will accumulate in the bowels until birth. The brain is growing rapidly, especially in the nerve centres dedicated to the senses. The heart, kidneys, and other organs are also developing well, preparing your baby for life outside the womb.
• Physical Features: Your baby's facial features are becoming more defined, with the nose taking shape and the ears reaching their final position. Tiny nails are growing on the fingers and toes, adding to your baby's adorable features. The skin is thickening and developing layers, protected by a waxy coating called vernix.
• Weight of the Foetus: At 20 weeks, your baby weighs around 250-310 grams, and the growth rate is accelerating. The baby's weight is expected to increase steadily from now on, with an average gain of about 170 grams per week.
• Movement of the Baby: This is often the time when mothers start to feel the baby's movements, known as quickening. These movements can feel like tiny flutters or rumblings in the tummy. Your baby is also developing a sleep-wake cycle and may respond to sounds in the environment. 

Physiological Changes During Week 20 of Pregnancy

• Breast Changes: Your breasts may continue to enlarge and feel tender due to hormonal changes. The areolas may darken, and you might notice small bumps called Montgomery's tubercles around the nipples. These changes are preparing your breasts for breastfeeding.
• Hair, Skin, and Nails: Pregnancy hormones can cause changes in your hair, skin, and nails. Your hair may become thicker and shinier, while your skin might be more sensitive or prone to pigmentation changes. Nails may grow faster but can also become brittle.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular System: As your uterus expands, it can put pressure on your diaphragm, causing shortness of breath. Your blood volume and cardiac output also increase to support the growing baby, which can lead to occasional palpitations. These changes are normal but discuss any concerns with your doctor.
• Vaginal Discharge: Increased vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea, is common during pregnancy. It helps protect the birth canal from infections. If the discharge has a strong odour or causes irritation, consult your doctor.
• Uterus Size and Position: At 20 weeks, your uterus has expanded up towards your belly button, making room for your growing baby. You may start to show more prominently, and your maternity clothes might become your best friend.
• Placenta Position: The placenta's position is checked during the 20-week ultrasound to ensure it is not covering the cervix, which could lead to complications later in pregnancy. Most often, the placenta is located on the upper or side wall of the uterus.
   

• Anomaly Scan (Ultrasound)

This detailed ultrasound, also known as the mid-pregnancy scan, is usually performed between 18 and 21 weeks. It checks your baby's growth and development, examining their organs, limbs, face, heart, spine, and brain. The scan can also reveal your baby's sex to the doctors, but you may or may not get to know depending on the laws in your country.

• Prenatal Checkup

Your doctor will measure your fundal height (distance from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus), check your weight and blood pressure, and listen to your baby's heartbeat. They may also discuss your anomaly scan results and address any concerns you may have.