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Day 146 of 280, second trimester

You are 20 weeks and 6 days

Your baby's reproductive organs are gradually developing, and the differences between the sexes are more obvious.

134 days until your due date

In girls, without high levels of testosterone, the reproductive glands become ovaries, which now contain 6–8 million follicles; about 1–2 million will remain at birth. The ovaries have moved down from the abdomen into the pelvis. The testes make a similar journey but haven't reached the scrotum yet. Because of the estrogen you produce, babies of either sex may develop breast buds, which disappear after birth. Your baby's sex has very little effect on the pregnancy, although later on boys are slightly heavier than girls on average.

Explainer

The amniotic "bubble"

The amniotic sac is sometimes called a "bubble" because of how it looks. It may be transparent, but it's tough and very hard to pierce, so your baby is very well protected.

Ask a Doctor

I had a fall recently. Could I have hurt my baby?

Falls are very common in pregnancy, because your growing belly, softening joints and ligaments, and shifting center of gravity can throw you off balance. The good news is that your baby is cushioned by amniotic fluid, and your injuries would have to be quite severe to harm him.

The best thing to do is watch your baby's movements afterward. If he's moving as much as usual, all should be fine, but see your doctor if you want reassurance. Get medical help if you have any discomfort, unusual discharge, or bleeding. If you leak water, it's probably urine from stress incontinence, not amniotic fluid.

Appointments and key dates around now

  • 20-week screening scanBetween 18 and 21 weeks
  • Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.