Your Baby's Development
You're halfway there! Twenty weeks into your pregnancy, your
baby has grown significantly from that first dividing cell and now
weighs about 11 ounces (312 grams) and measures about 6.3 inches
(16 cm) from crown to rump. The baby is taking up increasing room
in your uterus, and continued growth will put pressure on your
lungs, stomach, bladder, and kidneys.
Under the vernix caseosa (a protective, waxy coating), your
baby's skin is thickening and developing layers. Hair and nail
growth continue.
Your Body
If you haven't already had one, your health care provider may
recommend that you receive an
ultrasound
, a diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create an image. An
ultrasound can determine the size and position of the fetus, and
any structural abnormalities of bones and organs that are visible
by this time. Depending on the position of the fetus, the sex can
usually be determined by now. During an ultrasound, the umbilical
cord, placenta, and amniotic fluid can also be examined. Talk to
your health care provider about the risks and advantages of this
test.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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