The development of the fetus week 20

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The article was expertly consulted by MSc Nguyen Thi Hong On, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.
Week 20 of pregnancy marks the point when a woman is halfway through her pregnancy or 18 weeks after conception, when she can already feel the movements of the fetus. The fetus often sleeps and wakes up, in addition, the fetus can be awakened by noise or movement of the mother.

1. Changes in the body of a pregnant woman

At 20 weeks, the top of the uterus is now level with the mother's navel and the amount of weight gain can be from 3.6 kg to 4.5 kg at this time. Expect to gain 0.23 to 0.45 kg per week for the rest of your pregnancy. The amount of weight may be more or less depending on the woman's pre-pregnancy weight. Your doctor or midwife will let you know if this weight gain is at a healthy level and what adjustments to make in your diet and activity levels.

2. 20 weeks fetus development

How much does a 20-week fetus weigh? At this time, the fetus is about 25.7 cm long and weighs about 330 g. By this time, your baby will have four layers of skin, and one of them contains lines - which help create unique patterns for fingerprints, palms and feet. And let's see, your baby's hair is also growing more.
At the same time, a part of your baby's brain, called the cerebellum, is constantly developing. They play an extremely important role in neuromotor control and are involved in both cognitive (concentration, language) and emotional functions (control of fear and pleasure responses).
At 20 weeks, the baby is covered in a white substance called vernix caseosa or irritant. This substance helps protect your baby's skin from irritation while in amniotic fluid. In addition, this substance also makes it easier for the fetus to move through the cervix and vagina more easily than during vaginal birth. At this week, the fetus has started passing meconium, a dark green or black sticky substance. A small number of babies develop meconium while in utero or during labor.
Details of fetal development week by week, every parent should learn:

3. What should pregnant women plan for this week?

It's time for mothers and families to start thinking about how and where to give birth. This will be one of the most memorable experiences of a lifetime, life changing and making mom's life more enjoyable. The mother will take a moment to think about her hopes and wishes for this special day. Starting with information from the internet and magazines, try to write down as many thoughts and plans as possible about having a baby. Creating a birth plan can help you communicate your wishes clearly to all the family members who will support you during labor.

4. Tips for a healthier pregnancy

Iron supplements: Remember that it is extremely important to ensure that you are getting enough nutrients in your diet, especially iron. Iron supplementation during pregnancy is necessary because it supports the production of hemoglobin in the fetus and prevents anemia, low birth weight and premature birth. While pregnant, women need to ensure their daily iron intake from 27 to 30 mg. Good sources of iron from foods include:
Lean red meat Pork Dried beans Spinach Dried fruit Wheat germ Oatmeal porridge Iron fortified cereals Go out and relax: This is when it's possible. Think about taking a break before giving birth, and since your body is not heavy yet, you can still travel. Most airlines have travel restrictions for women who are 36 weeks pregnant, and if you must fly, a doctor's note is required. If you are pregnant with multiples or have had complications, you may need to limit your flight from 32 weeks onwards.
Avoid back pain: If you already have your first toddler, you just need to bend over to him, don't hold him often. Encourage your child to climb onto your lap while you are sitting or lying down. Pregnant women often suffer from back pain, so you need to pay attention to take care of your back. For example, if your bed mattress is dented, uncomfortable and doesn't help keep your spine straight, then boldly change the mattress to a better one,
Bathing with a bathtub: If you don't have to, If you come into contact with water, enjoy your bath time. Over the next few weeks, you'll probably enjoy lying on your back in the tub and watching the little movements rise to the surface of your abdomen. You feel your baby turning, bumping, or your baby's fingers are pinched against the wall of the uterus, or your bladder naturally feels like a very slight electric current, etc., all give see your baby being active.

The 20th week of pregnancy belongs to the middle 3 months of pregnancy, this is the period of strong fetal development. At this stage, pregnant women need:
Comprehensive fetal malformation screening by superior 4D ultrasound technique. Screening for gestational diabetes, avoiding many dangerous complications for both mother and baby. Control the mother's weight reasonably to assess the health status of the pregnant woman and the development of the fetus. Understand the signs of threatened early delivery (especially in those carrying multiple pregnancies or having a history of miscarriage or premature birth) so that they can receive timely treatment to maintain pregnancy. To protect mother and baby during pregnancy, Vinmec provides a comprehensive Maternity service to monitor the health status of mother and baby, periodical antenatal check-ups with leading Obstetricians and Gynecologists. enough tests, important screening for pregnant women, counseling and timely intervention when detecting abnormalities in the health of mother and baby.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

Reference source: Webmd.com