Source: bing.comPregnancy is a beautiful journey that comes with many milestones, and one of them is reaching the 20th week of gestation. At this point, the baby has developed significantly from the time of conception. In this article, we will explore what develops in babies at 20 weeks gestation.
Table of Contents
The Baby’s Size
At 20 weeks, the baby is the size of a banana, measuring about 6.5 inches long and weighing around 10 ounces. The baby’s head is still proportionally larger than the body, but this will change as the baby continues to grow.
The Baby’s Movement
At 20 weeks, the baby’s movements become more pronounced and noticeable. You may feel the baby’s kicks and punches, and the baby may even respond to your touch or voice. The baby’s movements are a sign of good health and development.
The Baby’s Organs
By 20 weeks, the baby’s organs are fully formed, and they continue to develop and mature. The baby’s heart is beating at a regular rhythm and can be heard through a Doppler device. The baby’s lungs are developing and starting to produce surfactant, which is essential for breathing after birth. The baby’s digestive system is also developing, and the baby can swallow and digest amniotic fluid.
The Baby’s Senses
At 20 weeks, the baby’s senses are starting to develop. The baby can taste and smell the amniotic fluid, and the baby’s ears are fully formed, allowing the baby to hear sounds from the outside world. The baby’s eyes are also developing, and the baby can perceive light and dark.
The Baby’s Gender
By 20 weeks, the baby’s gender can usually be determined through an ultrasound scan. However, some babies may be in a position where their gender cannot be determined, or they may have ambiguous genitalia, which may require further testing.
The Baby’s Hair and Nails
At 20 weeks, the baby’s hair and nails are starting to grow. The baby’s hair is usually soft and fine, and the nails may be long enough to scratch the baby’s delicate skin. It is essential to keep the baby’s nails trimmed to prevent them from scratching themselves.
The Placenta and Umbilical Cord
The placenta and umbilical cord are vital structures that provide the baby with essential nutrients and oxygen. By 20 weeks, the placenta is fully developed and functioning correctly, and the umbilical cord is growing stronger and thicker.
Conclusion
In conclusion, at 20 weeks gestation, the baby has developed significantly and is continuing to grow and mature. The baby’s size, movement, organs, senses, gender, hair, and nails are all developing, and the placenta and umbilical cord are functioning correctly. It is essential to continue to take care of yourself and your baby during this critical time in your pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal weight for a baby at 20 weeks gestation?
A baby at 20 weeks gestation typically weighs around 10 ounces.
Can you feel the baby move at 20 weeks?
Yes, at 20 weeks, the baby’s movements become more pronounced and noticeable, and you may feel the baby’s kicks and punches.
What can the baby hear at 20 weeks?
At 20 weeks, the baby’s ears are fully formed, allowing the baby to hear sounds from the outside world.
Can you determine the baby’s gender at 20 weeks?
Yes, by 20 weeks, the baby’s gender can usually be determined through an ultrasound scan.
Why is it essential to keep the baby’s nails trimmed?
It is essential to keep the baby’s nails trimmed to prevent them from scratching themselves and causing injury to their delicate skin.