Week 20 Pregnancy

Second Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

20 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the second trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a banana.
Mid-pregnancy anomaly scan.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 20 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of a banana. This week's key development: Halfway. NHS note: Mid-pregnancy anomaly scan.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 19

Week 21

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a banana.

Halfway — You've reached the midpoint of your pregnancy. Your baby's movements are becoming stronger and more frequent. Many parents have their mid-pregnancy anatomy scan around now — a chance to see your baby in wonderful detail.

Banana

Approx. 25.6cm

Your Symptoms

Stronger kicks
Heartburn
Shortness of breath

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Mid-pregnancy anomaly scan. This is often when you can find out the sex if you wish.

Practical Advice for Week 20

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
You're halfway — celebrate with a nutritious but delicious meal!
Iron needs increase in the second half of pregnancy — eat red meat, beans, and dark greens.
Include healthy carbohydrates for energy — sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa.

Exercise

Continue moderate exercise — 150 minutes per week is the NHS target.
Swimming becomes increasingly comfortable as your bump grows.
Pelvic floor exercises are essential — they help with labour and recovery.
Avoid high-impact exercise if you experience any pelvic or back pain.

Wellbeing

Stronger kicks are a wonderful reassurance — enjoy the feeling of your baby moving.
Heartburn may become more persistent — eat smaller meals and avoid lying down after eating.
Shortness of breath is normal as your uterus pushes against your diaphragm.
Celebrate this milestone — you're halfway through your pregnancy!

Preparation

Your mid-pregnancy anomaly scan — you may find out the sex if you wish.
Start thinking about your birth plan in more detail.
Research antenatal classes if you haven't booked yet — NHS ones are free.
If this is your first baby, consider touring your local birth centre or hospital.

Tip of the Week

Celebrate! You're halfway through this incredible journey.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 20

How many months is 20 weeks pregnant?

At 20 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 4 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 20 weeks?

At 20 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a banana (about 25.6cm). You've reached the midpoint of your pregnancy. Your baby's movements are becoming stronger and more frequent. Many parents have their mid-pregnancy anatomy scan around now

What are the common symptoms at 20 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include stronger kicks, heartburn, shortness of breath. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 20 weeks in the second trimester?

Yes, 20 weeks falls within the second trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 20 weeks?

Mid-pregnancy anomaly scan. This is often when you can find out the sex if you wish.

What happens at the 20-week scan?

The 20-week anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound that checks the physical development of your baby.

Can I feel movement at 20 weeks?

Many women start feeling definite movements, called quickening, between 16 and 24 weeks.

Is 20 weeks halfway through pregnancy?

Yes, standard pregnancy is measured as 40 weeks, making 20 weeks the halfway point.

Tools & Calculators

Pregnancy Week Calculator Timeline by Due Date How Many Weeks Am I?

Sources and further reading

Week 19

Week 21

Track Your Due Date

Keep track of your pregnancy milestones, NHS scans, and countdown to your due date.

Go to Tracker

NHS Resources

Find trusted information on financial support, antenatal classes, and local maternity services.

View Resources

All Weeks

Browse the complete week-by-week pregnancy guide from conception to birth.

View All Weeks

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