Welcome to the second trimester, often called the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy! Many early symptoms like nausea and tiredness start to fade, and your energy returns as your body adjusts to support your growing baby.
During this time, your baby grows rapidly, reaching up to 3 pounds and around 16 inches in length, with important brain and organ development happening.
Your belly and breasts are expanding, so comfy clothes might be a good idea! Regular doctor visits and tests will help make sure both you and your baby are healthy.
Read on to learn more about what to expect and how to make the most of this exciting time!
What to Expect in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy?
The second trimester, from weeks 13 to 27, is full of changes for both you and your baby. You may feel less nausea and more energy, making this a more comfortable phase of pregnancy.
Meanwhile, your baby is growing quickly and developing vital organs, bones, and senses. This is an exciting time, as you’ll likely start to feel your baby’s movements and notice your belly growing.
Baby's Growth and Development
In the second trimester, your baby's growth is rapid. By the end of week 27, they will weigh about 2 pounds and measure around 14 inches long. Key developments include the formation of the brain, muscles, and bones. Your baby can now move around.
Expect milestones like the opening of the eyes and the development of unique fingerprints. With ultrasound, you may know your baby’s gender, as reproductive organs are more developed.
Emotional Changes
Emotionally, you might feel more stable than you did earlier in your pregnancy. Hormonal changes continue, but increased energy and reduced nausea can make you feel better.
You may start feeling your baby move, often described as flutters, leading to a stronger emotional connection and sense of anticipation.
It's a time when you may become more focused on your baby's arrival and begin preparations. These feelings, combined with visible changes in your body, help make the second trimester an exciting phase of pregnancy.
Second Trimester Pregnancy Milestones Week by Week
Week 13-16: During these weeks, you might feel more energetic. Your belly starts to show as your uterus grows. Prenatal visits often include an ultrasound to monitor development.
Read more: 13 Weeks Pregnant, 14 Weeks Pregnant, 15 Weeks Pregnant, and 16 Weeks Pregnant
Week 17-20: Baby movements might be felt for the first time, often a fluttering sensation. You may also discover your baby's gender during an ultrasound around week 20.
Read more: 17 Weeks Pregnant, 18 Weeks Pregnant
Week 21-24: Your baby grows rapidly and begins to develop a stronger sense of hearing. You might feel stronger kicks and movements. This is a good time to bond by talking or playing music to your baby.
Read more: 23 Weeks Pregnant, 24 Weeks Pregnant
Week 25-27: Your baby's organs continue to develop. Start preparing for the third trimester by adjusting sleeping positions and making necessary lifestyle changes. Regular prenatal visits help ensure everything is progressing smoothly.
Read more: 25 Weeks Pregnant, 26 Weeks Pregnant, and 27 Weeks Pregnant.
Physical and Emotional Changes in the Second Trimester
The second trimester is often called the "golden trimester." Many early pregnancy symptoms, like nausea, tend to decrease. Nonetheless, you might notice new physical changes.
Physical Symptoms and What They Mean
During this trimester, you’ll likely notice a growing baby bump as your uterus expands, with a typical weight gain of 1-2 pounds per week.
Many women experience less nausea than in the first trimester, which brings welcome relief. However, you may also encounter back pain from the extra weight, sharp ligament pain in your abdomen, and swelling in your ankles and feet due to fluid retention.
Other changes include darkening skin around your nipples, the appearance of a linea nigra on your abdomen, and symptoms like leg cramps, nasal congestion, and headaches.
Regular prenatal visits will help you manage these common symptoms effectively.
Emotional Health
Emotionally, the second trimester is often a period of greater stability. As hormone levels start to balance, mood swings usually become less intense.
Many pregnant women feel more emotionally grounded and connected to their baby during this time, bringing a sense of calm and anticipation for what’s ahead.
Bonding and Mood
Feeling your baby move is a highlight and can enhance bonding. This can boost your mood and help you feel more connected. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about the changes and responsibilities ahead.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique. It's essential to listen to your body and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Discomforts You Should Expect in the Second Trimester
In this trimester, adding about 15 pounds in three months can bring new discomforts, especially in your lower back as your belly grows and adds pressure. Here’s what you might feel and some tips to help!
Easing Lower Back Pain
With the extra weight, lower back pain can creep in. Try sleeping on your left side with a pillow between your legs, avoid lifting heavy items, skip the high heels, and sit in supportive chairs.
Good posture, gentle pregnancy massages, and applying a warm or cold pack for 10 minutes at a time can make a big difference.
Don’t forget to check out our Pregnancy Pillow for Back Pain.
Varicose Veins
Extra weight may make your legs sore and lead to varicose veins. This happens when your growing uterus puts pressure on a large vein in your legs.
Try propping up your legs, avoid sleeping on your back, wear a support hose (ask your doctor first), and avoid sitting with your legs crossed.
Round Ligament Pain
You might feel quick, sharp pains on the sides of your belly—that’s your round ligaments stretching to support your growing uterus.
Moving too fast, coughing, or laughing can trigger this. Changing positions slowly and flexing your hips before sneezing or coughing helps. If the pain is intense or lasts a while, let your doctor know.
Dizziness
Feeling a bit dizzy sometimes? As your blood vessels expand, your blood pressure can drop a bit too much. Staying hydrated and lying on your left side can help you manage this feeling.
Bleeding Gums or Nose
Hormones and extra blood flow can make you more prone to nosebleeds and gum bleeding. This can also lead to stuffiness or snoring at night.
To Help with Nosebleeds:
- Avoid secondhand smoke
- Breathe in steam from a hot shower
- Place a warm, moist towel over your face
If your gums bleed when you brush, try using a softer toothbrush, but don’t skip brushing and flossing. It’s still important! If your gums bleed a lot, talk to your dentist—they’ll know how to help.
Leg Cramps
Leg cramps, often at night, are pretty common. Staying active, drinking plenty of water, and stretching your calf muscles before bed can help keep them at bay. If a cramp hits, gently stretch the muscle.
Tips for a Healthy Second-Trimester Pregnancy
Eating well is essential during the second trimester. Focus on getting enough protein, iron, and calcium, which are crucial for your baby’s growth.
Iron-rich foods like spinach and lean meats help prevent anemia. Calcium can be found in dairy products like yogurt and cheese. Adding these to your meals ensures both you and your baby get needed nutrients.
Regular exercise helps you stay fit and can ease pregnancy symptoms. Safe activities include walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga.
These exercises improve mood, energy levels, and help manage weight gain. Always consult your doctor before starting any new routine to ensure the safety of your exercise program.
Managing stress keeps you and your baby healthy. Practice deep breathing exercises or meditation to relax. Sleep is also important. Aim for 7-9 hours each night and try using pillows for comfort as your body changes. During this time, taking short naps can help reduce fatigue.
Good prenatal care includes regular check-ups. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your health and your baby’s development closely. Make sure to discuss any concerns or symptoms you have. Being proactive about your health is part of good self-care during this time.
Essential Prenatal Tests in the Second Trimester
During the second trimester, several important tests help ensure the health and development of your baby.
Anatomy Scan
Around weeks 18 to 22, you'll undergo an anatomy scan, which is a detailed ultrasound. This test checks the baby's growth and looks at vital organs like the heart, brain, and kidneys. The sonographer will also examine the placenta and amniotic fluid levels.
Glucose Screening
Between weeks 24 and 28, you will likely have a glucose screening. This test checks for gestational diabetes. You'll drink a sweet liquid, and your blood sugar levels will be measured afterward. It's a simple test but important for identifying and managing any sugar level concerns.
Prenatal Ultrasound
Apart from the anatomy scan, other ultrasounds may be done to monitor the baby's movement and growth. These can also help identify any potential complications. An ultrasound can be a reassuring part of tracking your baby's development.
Preparing for Appointments
For these appointments, you might need to drink a special liquid, or arrive with a full bladder for clearer ultrasound images. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for the best results.
What to Expect
During these tests, you might hear your baby's heartbeat or feel early movements. This is an exciting time when you may connect more with your baby while ensuring everything is progressing normally.
What to Avoid During the Second Trimester?
In the second trimester, it’s important to know what to avoid to keep you and your baby as safe and healthy as possible. Here are some key things to keep an eye on:
Alcohol and Drugs
Avoiding alcohol and certain drugs remains essential. Alcohol and drugs can harm your baby’s brain and body development, so it’s safest to stay away from these throughout pregnancy. Even small amounts of alcohol can have long-term effects on your baby’s health.
High-Mercury Fish
Fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel have high levels of mercury, which can negatively impact your baby’s developing nervous system.
Mercury exposure during pregnancy can lead to learning and development issues, so it’s better to opt for lower-mercury fish like salmon, trout, or cod, which offer healthy fats without the high mercury risk.
Raw and Undercooked Foods
Foods like sushi, rare meats, and raw eggs can carry harmful bacteria, such as salmonella or E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. Getting sick from these can lead to dehydration and other issues that aren’t safe for you or your baby.
Sticking to fully-cooked meats and eggs is the safest choice.
Certain Cheeses
Some soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk, like Brie, Camembert, and blue cheese, can contain listeria, a bacteria that can lead to serious infections during pregnancy.
Listeria infections are rare but can be very dangerous for your developing baby. Look for pasteurized options instead; most grocery stores label these clearly.
Caffeine in Large Amounts
While a little caffeine is generally considered safe, too much can increase the risk of preterm labor or low birth weight. Experts recommend keeping your caffeine intake under 200 milligrams per day—about one 12-ounce cup of coffee.
Remember, caffeine is also in teas, sodas, and even chocolate, so check your daily total to stay within safe limits.
Processed Foods
Processed foods tend to have high amounts of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to high blood pressure and unwanted weight gain. Instead, choose whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support your baby’s healthy growth.
Stressful Environments
High stress can impact both your physical and emotional health, which can, in turn, affect your baby. Try to manage stress with relaxing activities like prenatal yoga, deep breathing exercises, meditation, or simply going for short, calming walks. Taking time for yourself can help you stay centered and feel better.
Certain Herbal Teas and Supplements
hile herbal teas may seem harmless, not all herbs are safe for pregnancy. Some, like certain detox teas, can cause uterine contractions or other side effects. It’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before adding any new herbal teas or supplements to your routine.
Keeping these things in mind can help create a safer environment for both you and your developing baby during the second trimester.
Preparing for the Third Trimester
As you approach the third trimester, creating a birth plan can help you feel more prepared for labor and delivery. Outline your preferences for pain management, delivery methods, and who you want present during the birth. Discuss these choices with your healthcare provider to ensure they align with medical advice and possible hospital policies.
Preparing a cozy nursery and gathering baby essentials are key tasks as you get closer to your due date. Start with the basics like a crib, diapers, and baby clothing. A changing table and feeding supplies will also come in handy.
Don’t forget to prepare your hospital bag with essentials like comfortable clothing, toiletries, important documents, and a cozy outfit for the baby’s trip home. Having everything ready will help make the transition easier when your little one arrives, so you can focus on bonding and settling in together.
Attending childbirth education classes can provide valuable insights into labor, delivery, and newborn care. These classes often cover breathing techniques, pain relief options, and postpartum recovery. They can also prepare you for unexpected situations and build confidence in your ability to handle childbirth.
A checklist can be helpful in organizing what needs to be done:
- Finalize your birth plan.
- Prepare the nursery.
- Inventory and purchase baby essentials.
- Attend childbirth classes.
Each of these steps plays a crucial role in getting ready for the exciting times ahead as you enter the last stage of your pregnancy journey.
Must-Have Products for Moms-to-Be from Momcozy
Momcozy offers a fantastic range of essentials for expectant moms, designed to make pregnancy and early motherhood more comfortable and convenient. Here are some must-have products every mom-to-be will love:
- Maternity Belly Band – Provides gentle support for your growing belly and helps relieve back pain and pressure.
- Pregnancy Pillow – Get a good night’s sleep with a cozy, supportive pillow that’s perfect for side sleeping as your belly grows.
- Hands-Free Breast Pump – Ideal for easy pumping on the go, especially for busy new moms.
- Nursing Bras – Comfortable, adjustable bras that make breastfeeding easy and convenient.
- Baby Wrap Carrier – Perfect for keeping your baby close, comfortable, and secure when they arrive.
Momcozy’s products are designed to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Check out these essentials and be prepared for every stage of motherhood!
Frequently Asked Questions
During the second trimester of pregnancy, you may experience plenty of physical and emotional changes. This guide answers common questions to help you understand and navigate this stage with confidence.
What should I do in my second trimester of pregnancy?
In this trimester, it's important to attend regular prenatal appointments and maintain a balanced diet. Continue taking prenatal vitamins and stay active with safe exercises, like walking or swimming. Staying hydrated and getting enough rest are also essential.
What should a woman expect during the 2nd trimester?
Expect changes such as a growing belly and increasing breast size. You might start to feel your baby move for the first time. Screenings for gestational diabetes and anemia usually occur between weeks 24 and 28.
How do you know baby is OK in second trimester?
Your doctor will monitor the baby's growth and development through ultrasounds and checkups. Pay attention to your baby's movements—feeling kicks and flutters is a good sign. Regular prenatal visits ensure your baby is healthy.
Which is a common discomfort of the second trimester?
Leg cramps and occasional headaches are common. As blood flow increases to support your growing baby, you might experience these temporary discomforts. Stretching and staying hydrated can help alleviate them.
What are red flags in the second trimester?
Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, sudden swelling in the hands or face, and heavy bleeding. It's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice these symptoms. Keep an eye on your baby's movements and report any significant changes.
