The second trimester, which happens from weeks 13 through 26, is said to be the calmest trimester. After experiencing overwhelming pregnancy symptoms in the first trimester and before experiencing the final stretch of pregnancy in the third trimester, the second trimester is where you can expect to feel most energized.
The second trimester is the best time to get all tasks done to ready yourself and your home for your coming baby. You’ll have more energy and experience fewer mood swings as your hormones begin to regulate. Morning sickness will also lessen, which means you won’t feel the urge to vomit as often as you did in the first trimester.
Here are other things you can expect to happen:
1.) Growing Baby Bump
Mamas often pack in the pounds during the second trimester to keep up with the demands of your growing baby. It’s also when you’ll begin to show more, which means maternity clothes will come in handy already.
Stock up your closet with a trusty belly band support, some maternity bras, maternity leggings, and maternity dresses so you’re always ready for wherever the day brings you.
2.) Breast Changes
Your breasts will continue to grow but may not be as tender as they were during the first trimester. These changes are slowly preparing you for breastfeeding your baby.
You may also notice the skin on your nipples (and around it) darkens. They may also start to have small bumps, which are glands that create an oily substance that prevents your nipples from getting dry.
In the second trimester, there’s a possibility for you to leak colostrum, which will be your baby’s first food if you choose to breastfeed. If you start leaking colostrum in pregnancy, using breast pads may help shield your clothes from getting wet which can become uncomfortable.
3.) Skin Changes
As your belly expands, your skin will be stretched tight. Because of this, stretch marks may begin to appear and are likely to show on your belly, breasts, butt, and thighs. Using a moisturizing cream can help lighten stretch marks and can sooth your itching belly.
Other skin changes in pregnancy include dry, itchy skin on the belly, increased sensitivity to the sun, and the “linea negra,” which is a dark line that runs down the middle of your belly. These often go away after pregnancy.
4.) Body Aches and Pains
You may start to experience leg cramps while sleeping, which is caused by the pressure your growing baby puts on your nerves. The same pressure can cause you to have an aching back, pelvis, and hips, as your growing belly can strain your back.
5.) Loose Teeth and Bleeding Gums
Pregnancy hormones affect the ligaments and bones in your body, including your mouth. Because of this, you may notice that your teeth start to loosen, but they often return to normal after pregnancy.
If your teeth and gums are extra sensitive, using a sensitive maternity toothbrush can lessen your chances of bleeding teeth and gums as compared to using regular toothbrushes.
Likewise, increased blood flow to the mucous membranes in your mouth may cause bleeding gums. However, if symptoms persist and there’s constant bleeding and swelling in your gums, contact your doctor as it may be because of a periodontal disease, which is linked to preterm labor and low birth weight.
6.) Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
The hormonal changes you experience in the second trimester can slow the flow of urine and ultimately causes your bladder not to empty completely. It is always good to get a routine urinalysis during pregnancy to rule out Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), which can lead to preterm labor if left untreated.
7.) Braxton Hicks contractions
Usually coined as “false labor,” Braxton Hicks contractions happen when your uterine muscles tighten as it prepares for labor and delivery. Braxton Hicks causes your belly to tighten and stiffen up, which can become uncomfortable.
It’s important to note that Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular in timing and go away within a few minutes. If the contractions become regular and more painful, it might be preterm labor and it’s important to let your doctor know right away.
During the second trimester, you should visit your doctor regularly, or at least once a month. Your doctor is the best person to answer all your questions about the symptoms you experience, and the process of childbirth you’re about to undergo.
While there are many things to look out for in the second trimester, it’s also a great time to enjoy and embrace the realness of your pregnancy. Go on a trip with your family (with clearance from your doctor), go shopping for your nursery, or do a maternity shoot alone or with your partner. With recharged energy, the second trimester is a great time to get things going for you!
You got this, mama!
TAGS:second-trimester
