Week 20

Halfway There, Mama—Here's What to Expect

Mija, can you believe we're already here? Week 20. Halfway through this incredible, stretching, sometimes-weird, sometimes-wondrous journey called pregnancy. Whether this is your first baby or your third, reaching this milestone is something to pause for and honor. You've been carrying not just a baby, but dreams, questions, and moments that only someone growing life can understand.

This week is more than a number—it's a turning point. You may start to feel pregnant in a different way now. More movement, more belly, maybe a few more sighs as you try to roll out of bed (we'll talk about that too). If you're feeling both joy and "oh wow, there's still halfway to go," you're not alone. So many of us hit this week with a mix of awe, anxiety, and anticipation. Breathe that in. This week is about embracing your body, marveling at your baby, and reconnecting with what you need as you continue to give so much.

🍼 My Baby: Jumping, Growing, and Listening In

Your baby is about the size of a cantaloupe—around 6½ inches long and nearly 10½ ounces in weight. If you're carrying twins, each one might be closer to 7½ inches and almost a pound. That's a lot of growing! Your little one is stretching out, flexing, and now has enough muscle tone to make more noticeable movements. And yes, this is probably when you'll start feeling those flutters.

At 20 weeks, your baby can hear sounds from the world outside the womb. That means your voice, music, loud laughter, even clanging pots or barking dogs might get their attention. Don't be surprised if you feel a tiny jolt or jump after a sudden noise—it's completely normal. Some babies may even bring their hands up to cover their ears, which is as adorable as it is wild to imagine. And speaking of adorable, hair is starting to grow on your baby's scalp, giving you your first clues of whether you're in for soft curls or a full mop.

If you haven't felt much movement yet, don't worry. For first-time mamas or those with larger body frames, it can take a bit longer to feel those first little nudges. When they come, it may feel like bubbles popping, gentle flutters, or a quiet swoosh. Give it time. You'll know your baby's rhythm soon.

🤰🏽 My Body: Celebrating Your Strength

Congratulations—you've made it halfway! Whether you've been loving pregnancy or just trying to survive it, take a moment to honor yourself. You've grown a human for 20 weeks. That's no small thing. Treat yourself to something meaningful: a quiet morning with pan dulce and tea, a prenatal massage, or a simple belly photo to capture this beautiful transformation.

Physically, your uterus is now at the level of your belly button, and you've likely gained around 10 pounds—though every body is different. From here on, expect to gain about a pound per week. If you started pregnancy underweight, your provider may encourage you to gain a bit more. If you began overweight, your gain may be slower. Either way, you're doing what's right for you and your bebé.

Tender belly button? It might be starting to pop out. Totally normal. Your body is adjusting to all this expansion and growth. Other changes might include more visible veins, heightened sense of smell, and possibly some round ligament pain as everything stretches out. Stay hydrated and rest when you can—your body is working overtime.

🧘🏽‍♀️ My Health: Eating Well, Moving Gently, Rising Smart

Managing weight and energy at this stage can be a dance. If you're feeling extra hungry, you're not alone. One tip? Start your day with a breakfast that includes fat, protein, and complex carbs—like avocado toast with eggs, or oatmeal with chia and almonds. You'll feel fuller longer, and avoid those mid-morning sugar crashes.

Snack wisely throughout the day with nourishing, grab-and-go options:

• Fresh fruit or veggie sticks with hummus
• Handful of walnuts or almonds
• Whole grain crackers with nut butter
• Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of granola

Swap junk food for satisfying alternatives. Love chips? Try popcorn with olive oil and sea salt. Craving ice cream? Try frozen yogurt with fruit or a coconut milk dessert. Balance, not restriction, is the goal.

Gentle movement like stretching, walking, or prenatal yoga can ease aches and keep your energy steady.

💡 Tips & To-Do's: Baby Names and Belly Pics

📸 Your Mid-Pregnancy To-Do List

• Take a profile bump pic. Whether it's with a professional camera or your phone in front of a mirror—mark this beautiful midpoint.
• Talk names. If you haven't sat down to brainstorm baby names, this week is a great time to get that conversation flowing.
• Check in with your provider. You may have your mid-pregnancy anatomy scan this week—ask questions, take notes, and celebrate every little heartbeat.
• Celebrate you. However you want. A slow morning. A new robe. A solo walk. You're halfway through the wildest, most sacred journey of your life.

❤️ From My Family to Yours

Halfway through means halfway to holding your baby in your arms. Breathe that in. Let your community wrap around you—whether that's your mama, your comadres, your partner, or your online mami group. You're doing something powerful. And you deserve to feel celebrated, supported, and held every step of the way.

You're halfway there, hermosa. And you're doing beautifully.