Your baby's legs have uncurled enough so he is now measured from head to toe instead of "crown to rump."
Pregnancy dreams may feature baby animals that are friendly if you're feeling optimistic or threatening if you're feeling ambivalent.
Cold medications that contain alcohol, NSAIDs, and certain decongestants are not safe to take during pregnancy.
You're in your fifth month!
Growth spurt?
No, your baby didn't really grow 4 inches since last week. He's just being measured differently. For the first half of pregnancy (when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso), measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom, or from "crown to rump." But starting at 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.
Taste buds in training
Many of your baby's taste buds can now transmit taste signals to his brain, and he's swallowing molecules of the food you eat that have passed through your blood into your amniotic fluid. Researchers aren't sure if he can taste these molecules, but some research indicates that what you eat during pregnancy can influence the foods your baby will prefer later.
See what fraternal twins look like in the womb this week.
Weight gain
Feeling cramped? It's no wonder: The top of your uterus is now about level with your belly button, and you may have gained around 10 pounds. Expect to gain another pound or so each week from now on. If you started your pregnancy underweight, you may need to gain a bit more; if you were overweight, a bit less. See if you're on track.
Itchy skin
You may feel especially itchy around your belly and breasts as your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby. Use cold packs and slather on moisturizer for relief. (Scratching can make it worse!) Get more tips on easing the itch, and find out when it could be the sign of a problem.
Restless sleep
Short on sleep? Do you shift around all night trying to find a comfortable sleeping position? These suggestions may help: Lie on your side, with your knees bent and a pillow between your legs. For extra comfort and support, arrange other pillows under your belly and behind your back. You could also try using a contoured maternity body pillow.
Don't see your symptom?
Wondering about a symptom you have? Find it on our pregnancy symptoms page.
Get plenty of iron
During pregnancy, your body needs more iron to keep up with your expanding blood volume as well as to nourish your growing baby and the placenta. Beans, beef, and fortified cereal are good sources.
Sign up for childbirth class
Lamaze? Bradley? HypnoBirthing?
Whether you want to learn specific techniques to cope with pain or just find out more about the logistics of labor and delivery, a childbirth class will help prepare you.
Treat yourself
You made it to the halfway point in your pregnancy, so celebrate with a little indulgence. How about a facial, prenatal massage, or pregnancy photo shoot to mark the occasion? Or even just splurge on that cute maternity top you've been eyeing.
