Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins around the anus or in the lower rectum. Discuss topics including external vs. internal hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid bleeding, hemorrhoid creams, symptoms and treatments for hemorrhoids.
Pregnancy Week by Week: Week 20...
Week 20
Congratulations, you are halfway through your pregnancy!
What Is Happening To Your Body
At this point, your healthcare provider may recommend that you have an ultrasound scan. The ultrasound can determine the size and position of the fetus and any physical abnormalities that are visible at this stage. Your healthcare provider should also measure the size of your uterus to keep track of your baby’s growth.
Your belly button may pop out and stay that way. Some moms-to-be report having some trouble breathing. This is caused by the lungs being cramped by internal organs that the growing uterus has displaced. While this is not a serious complication, it can be uncomfortable. But, once your baby “drops” (4 to 6 weeks before your due date) this pressure will be relieved.
As your baby pushes down on your bladder, you may have to urinate more often. Doing pelvic tilts before lying down can delay the need to go to the bathroom.
What Is Happening To Your Baby
Your baby now measures about 6 to 6.3 inches (15.2 to 15.9 cm) long from crown to rump, or about the size of a small banana, and weighs approximately 9 ounces (255.1 grams). Though your baby is still small, it has grown tremendously from that first dividing cell.
Under the vernix caseosa (the waxy, protective coating), your baby’s skin is thickening and starting to form two layers, the epidermis (outer layer) and the dermis (deeper layer). Your baby’s hair and nails are also continuing to grow.
Your baby’s movements should become stronger and stronger as the bones continue to harden. You should be able to feel fluttering or quickening quite regularly now. In fact, from the movements, you should be able to know if the baby is sleeping or awake.
What Is Happening This Week? 
Ultrasound images courtesy of GE Healthcare
The clinical images and information presented in this application represent normal fetal growth during a typical pregnancy. The images and information are to be used for educational purposes only and not for diagnostic purposes. Please consult a licensed physician regarding any specific questions pertaining to your pregnancy.
