Pregnancy Guide for Couples: Week 20
Welcome to Week 20—you’re halfway there! This week, you’re more than likely going to have your anatomy ultrasound appointment. This is where you can find out if you’re expecting a boy or girl!
What’s Going on with Baby
At Week 20, your baby is the size of a small pizza!
At the halfway mark, baby has developed so much an ultrasound tech can take images and record measurements of baby’s organs, limbs, and face (more on that below). Baby is starting to have routine sleep and wake schedules. They can even be startled awake by movement or noises. More things going on with baby include:
Your baby’s hiccups (yes, babies hiccup in the womb!) may startle you but they are normal.
Your little one is beginning to swallow tiny molecules of food that you eat. Isn’t that crazy?
Some experts say that your baby can even taste these tiny food molecules, which can affect their taste preferences later.
What’s Going on with Mom
Can you believe that you are already halfway through your pregnancy? Maybe it has felt like the last 20 weeks have flown by, or maybe it’s felt like you’ve already been pregnant for 40. Either way, the 20-week mark is exciting as Mom typically gets a complete anatomy ultrasound. Here’s what to expect at your 20-week ultrasound appointment:
The sonographer (ultrasound technician) will scan your abdomen to capture images of your baby from various angles.
The ultrasound tech will assess your baby’s development and health based on what they see, the measurements they take, and more.
Baby’s ‘fundal height’ will be measured, which shows how baby is growing.
Your baby’s organs, limbs, and face are all viewed in addition to genitals. If you’ve been waiting to find out what gender your baby is, this is the time to know!
Remember that ultrasound technicians aren’t typically allowed to tell Mom if they see an odd measurement or image. All ultrasound results must go to the doctor, who will talk with Mom.
What’s going on with Partner
Alright, Dad, this week is the big week! It’s Anatomy Scan week, and you will NOT want to miss this! During this scan, many parents will see what their baby looks like the most before seeing them face-to-face. Here are some fun things to pay attention to during the anatomy scan:
Your baby’s profile
Your baby’s moving fingers and limbs
Whether the baby is a boy or girl!
Your baby’s facial expressions
Baby’s body size (e.g., length of legs)
Some things, like facial expressions, may not be seen unless you experience a 3D ultrasound. If you do get a 3D ultrasound, you may already begin to see if baby looks more like you or Mom!
RESOURCE OF THE WEEK
Want even more info about what to expect during your anatomy scan (plus some tips to prepare)? Check out this blog!
