Pregnancy at 20 weeks: Experiencing symptoms, hormonal changes, and fetus growth
The second trimester of pregnancy, spanning weeks 13 to 27 or 28, brings a host of changes for both mother and baby. Here's a detailed overview of what expectant mothers can anticipate during this period.
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### Common Symptoms in the Second Trimester
Many women experience relief from early symptoms such as nausea and extreme fatigue, leading to increased energy levels and emotional balance. However, other physical discomforts persist, including round ligament pain, heartburn, leg cramps, increased vaginal discharge, back pain, nasal congestion, occasional nosebleeds, Braxton Hicks contractions, swelling in feet and ankles, and shortness of breath.
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### Hormonal Changes
Progesterone and estrogen continue to rise, supporting the pregnancy and causing physical changes such as muscle relaxation, increased blood volume, and skin pigmentation changes. These hormones also affect mood and energy levels, often stabilising in the second trimester compared to the first.
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### Baby Developments
Babies grow rapidly and become more active during the second trimester. By about the 4th month, the fetus can stretch, make facial expressions, and even suck its thumb. The development of eyelids, eyebrows, eyelashes, nails, and hair occurs. The fetus begins to recognise sounds and react to the mother's voice by the end of the second trimester. Fine details like facial features and fingers/toes become more defined. Movement (quickening) is often felt by the mother during this stage, described as fluttering or gentle kicks.
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### Tests for Genetic Disorders During the Second Trimester
The second trimester often includes the Quadruple Screen (Quad test), which measures levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estriol, and inhibin-A in the mother's blood to assess risk for Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects. A fetal anomaly scan, usually performed around 18-22 weeks, checks physical development and detects structural abnormalities. Depending on risk factors, amniocentesis might be offered for definitive genetic diagnosis by sampling amniotic fluid.
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This information provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect during the second trimester in terms of symptoms, hormonal shifts, fetal growth, and genetic screening. Maintaining regular prenatal care is essential to monitor these changes effectively.
During this period, the baby's brain is growing rapidly, and an ultrasound scan can reveal the baby's gender. The nipples may leak colostrum, a yellowish fluid. Indigestion and heartburn are common symptoms, and the skin on and around the nipples may darken in colour. Cartilage is converting to bone, the skeleton hardens, and bone marrow starts making blood cells.
Women have a higher risk of urinary tract infection during pregnancy. If you suspect an infection, speak with a healthcare provider about treatment. Supporting bras are available for pregnancy and may double up as nursing bras for breastfeeding after delivery. The milk glands grow and fat deposits increase during the second trimester.
The uterus and ovaries are formed, and eggs are developing. Leg cramps and swollen feet and ankles are common due to water retention. Genetic testing can diagnose a range of disorders before birth, including cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, hemophilia A, polycystic kidney disease, Tay-Sachs disease, spina bifida, and tests for sickle-cell anemia and thalassemia can start from week 10.
The bump grows by around half an inch each week from week 20 onwards. Ultrasound scans, alpha-fetoprotein test (AFP), chorionic villus sampling (CVS), amniocentesis, and percutaneous umbilical blood sampling are tests used for prenatal screening. Hormonal fluctuations lead to breast changes throughout pregnancy. The baby will be able to swallow by the end of week 19 to 21. The eyebrows are forming, and amniocentesis can reveal the sex of the baby, but it is only offered if the fetus faces a high risk of developing a health condition.
The testicles descend at around 20 weeks of pregnancy (in females, the ovaries do not descend). Some women may experience more brittle nails during pregnancy. Hair growth may increase during pregnancy. Breasts will be less sensitive during the second trimester. Maternity clothing is available for purchase online or in stores.
The baby is now the size of a cantaloupe, measuring approximately 6-6.5 inches from crown to rump and weighing nearly 10 oz. Genetic testing may be considered to identify possible anomalies. As the bump grows, be aware of posture to avoid back pain. Early diagnosis of a congenital medical problem can support preparation for the birth and take into account any special medical needs. In week 20 of pregnancy, the baby is growing.
In the second trimester, expectant mothers may encounter certain complications that could necessitate medical attention, such as a blocked milk duct or breast infection due to nipple changes and increased milk production. It's therefore crucial to seek guidance from healthcare professionals if symptoms like pain, redness, or fever occur. Additionally, Pfizer recently announced a study on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women and their influence on health-and-wellness, including women's-health outcomes during pregnancy. The results of this research could prove beneficial in providing better care and ensuring a safe Delivered-by- Pfizer for future generations.
