Weeks 17 to 20 of pregnancy are an exciting time in the second trimester. Many women begin to feel more energetic and comfortable during this stage as early pregnancy symptoms continue to fade. It is also the time when baby movements begin to be more apparent and the pregnancy starts to feel more real.
During these weeks your baby goes from the size of a turnip to the size of a mango. The baby is growing more active, and major organs and body fat are developing in the womb.
Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about weeks 17 to 20 of pregnancy including your baby’s size, symptoms you may have, your baby’s development, changes in your body, and important pregnancy care tips.
What to Know: Pregnancy Weeks 17–20
Weeks 17–20 are in the second trimester. This stage is important because your baby grows rapidly and many mothers begin to notice more pronounced physical and emotional changes.
Summary
| Pregnancy Week | Baby Size | Major Development |
|---|---|---|
| Week 17 | Turnip | Skeleton continues to harden |
| Week 18 | Bell Pepper | Baby starts to hear sounds clearly |
| Week 19 | Tomato | Sensory development enhances |
| Week 20 | Mango | Midpoint of pregnancy |
Many women have the important anatomy scan by the end of Week 20 to check on the baby’s growth and development.
Pregnancy Week 17: Symptoms & Baby Development
At 17 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing fast and getting more active.
Week 17 Foetal Development
Your baby is about the size of a turnip.
Baby Development Week 17
This week:
- The skeleton keeps getting harder
- Fat starts to form under the skin
- Strengthening of the umbilical cord
- The baby learns to suck and swallow
- Tiny fingerprints are still growing
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 17
1. Hungry For More
Your body needs additional nutrients to help baby grow.
2. Small Back Pain
As your belly grows it may put pressure on the back muscles.
3. Feeling faint
You may feel lightheaded if your blood pressure changes.
4. Striae
Skin stretching may start to cause stretch marks.
5. More sweat
Hormonal changes can raise body temperature.
Week 18 Pregnancy Symptoms & Baby Development
Week 18 is often a very exciting week as many women begin to feel baby movements more clearly.
Week 18 Baby Size
Your baby is roughly the size of a bell pepper.
Baby Development at 18 Weeks
Key developments include:
- Ears become more developed
- Baby starts to recognise sounds
- Development of the nervous system continues
- Muscles strengthen
- The baby begins to move more actively
Common Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 18
1. Kicks of Baby
You may start to feel a fluttering movement.
2. Leg Cramps
You may get muscle cramps frequently in pregnancy.
3. Stuffy Nose
Hormones can change your nose to one that is stuffy.
4. Puffy Feet
Fluid retention can cause mild swelling.
5. Restless
It may be difficult to get into a good sleeping position.
Week 19 of Pregnancy: Symptoms & Baby Development
Your baby’s senses are developing rapidly during Week 19.
19 Weeks Baby Size
Your baby is about the size of a tomato.
19 Weeks Baby Development
This week:
- Sensory development enhances
- Hair starts to grow on the scalp
- A protective coating called vernix develops on the skin
- Arms and legs become more proportional
- The baby gets more active
Common Symptoms for Week 19 of Pregnancy
1. Pain in the Round Ligament
Stretching of the ligaments can cause abdominal discomfort.
2. Acid Reflux
Pregnancy hormones slow your digestion.
3. More Hungry
Demand for energy is still growing.
4. Skin Transformation
There are women who develop dark patches on their skin.
5. Faster Hair Growth
Hormonal shifts can impact hair texture and how it grows.
Week 20 Pregnancy Symptoms & Baby Development
Week 20 is the half-way mark of pregnancy.
Size Of Baby At 20 Weeks
Your baby is the size of a mango.
Baby Development at 20 Weeks
Major developments include:
- Baby’s movements become stronger
- Hair and nails keep growing
- Muscles keep getting stronger
- Baby can swallow more amniotic fluid
- The sex organs are more advanced
What are the Symptoms to Expect in Week 20 of Pregnancy?
1. Baby’s Kicks Get Stronger
Notice kicks and movements easier.
2. Belly Expansion
You’ll start to notice your baby bump more.
3. Back pain
The added weight can strain your back.
4. Additional Power
Many women still have energy in the second trimester.
5. Slight Swelling
You may notice some swelling of the hands and feet.
Weeks 17 to 20 of Baby Development
The middle of the second trimester is a time of important growth and movement.
Key Events
- Skeleton constructions
- Hearing gets better
- Enhanced sensory development
- Muscles get stronger
- You start to feel the baby move
- Hair and nails continue to grow
Your baby is getting more active each week.
Typical Body Changes from Weeks 17–20
Your body is constantly changing to support your pregnancy.
Changes in the Body
- Baby bump growing
- Put on weight
- Striae
- Swelling
- More hungry
Emotional Changes
- Excitement
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Emotional connection to the baby
Hormonal changes still have impact on emotions and body changes.
Pregnancy Week 17–20 Healthy Pregnancy Tips
Taking care of yourself during the second trimester is still very important.
1. Take Prenatal Vitamins
Iron and calcium aid in supporting baby’s development.
2. Eat Nutritious Foods
Focus on:
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Protein
- Whole grain foods
- Dairy products
3. Drink Water
Drink a lot of water each day.
4. Comfortable Sleep
Pregnancy pillows can help you get a better night’s sleep.
5. Go to Anatomy Scan Appointments
The mid-pregnancy scan can help to see how your baby is developing.
6. Use With Caution
A little walking and prenatal yoga can assist to improve circulation and ease stress.
When to See Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you have:
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Swelling rapidly
- Extreme dizziness
- Decreased foetal movement
Getting prompt medical care can help promote a healthy pregnancy.
Conclusion
The 17th to 20th weeks of pregnancy are an exciting time for mother and baby, with many milestones. At this stage your baby will grow from the size of a turnip to the size of a mango. Movement, senses, muscles and body systems continue to grow rapidly.
Many women start to feel stronger baby movements and noticeable body changes such as a growing belly, stretch marks, swelling, and an increased appetite. Eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of fluids, going to your prenatal appointments and getting enough rest can help support a healthy pregnancy.
Every pregnancy is different so symptoms and body changes can vary from woman to woman. If you are ever concerned about your pregnancy symptoms or the movements of your baby, it’s always best to talk to your health care provider about them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of baby at 20 weeks pregnant?
At 20 weeks your baby is about the size of a mango.
Can You Feel Kicks at 18 Weeks?
Yes. Most women will start to feel flutters around this time.
What to expect at an anatomy scan?
During the anatomy scan, doctors will look at the baby’s organs, growth and development.
Is swelling a normal part of pregnancy?
Some swelling of the feet and hands is normal in pregnancy.
Why Do I Feel More Hungry in the Second Trimester?
Your body requires more nutrients and energy to feed your developing baby.
