What to expect in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
The second trimester of pregnancy is from week 13 to 27. For many, this is considered the ‘golden time’ of pregnancy given there is often a decrease in uncomfortable symptoms of the first trimester and increased energy levels.
It is important if you experience severe pain, vaginal bleeding or you are concerned, please consult your doctor or attend the nearest emergency department (ED), or call ‘000’.
Your pregnancy changes become more visible to others. Almost invariably, most of the things you will feel in the first stage of pregnancy are related to hormonal changes. These include a rise in progesterone (the hormone that usually rises and falls just prior to your period and which is responsible for PMS-like symptoms), and human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone, the hormone responsible for the pregnancy in the initial stages.
Symptoms you might experience during the second trimester of your pregnancy
Growing belly
Your uterus continues to grow and is now too big to remain hidden in your pelvis. This means people often start to notice that you are pregnant.
Wear supportive clothing or pregnancy specific garmets to support your growing belly.
Skin changes
Several skin changes occur during to hormonal changes stimulating melanin, the pigment cells of your skin. Changes range from a dark line down your belly (linea nigra), brown patches on your face, breasts, buttocks or thighs, or even dry skin. Sun exposure can worsen pigment changes. Skin changes often fade post-delivery.
Sun protection is important and therefore ‘slip, slop, slap.’ If you experience itchiness of your skin, please consult your midwife or doctor.
Nasal problems
Many people notice their nose is congested or it takes a long time to clear minor ‘head colds.’ In pregnancy, there is increase blood flow to mucous membranes, including your sinuses and these can swell and/or bleed, leading to blood noses. You may also notice bleeding from your gums more easily when you brush your teeth.
Staying physically active and well hydrated with water is important. Saline drops can assist you have congestion. If you have fever, or than a minor cold, or recurrent bleeding, please consult your midwife or doctor.
Light-headedness and dizziness
Due to hormonal and blood pressure changes, your blood pressure is at its lowest around 20 weeks, before it slowly increases. If you are prone to low blood pressure, around this time you may notice light headedness when you stand or sit up, or if you have prolonged periods on your feet.
Stay well hydrated, regular movement and staying physically active is important. Consider calf compressing stocking if you have prolonged periods on your feet.
Constipation and/or haemorrhoids.
Hormonal changes result in relaxation of your bowel. Combined with changes to your diet or fluid intake, pregnancy can contribute to constipation and/or haemorrhoids.
It is important to have a healthy, balanced diet including adequate fibre and fluid intake. If you have ongoing constipation, please ask your midwife or doctor as you may benefit from aperients.
Leg cramps
It is not fully known why these occur however they often can be intense and occur when you are trying to sleep.
Stretch your legs before bed, stay physically active, drink plenty of fluids and wear comfortable and supportive shoes. If ongoing, discussion with your midwife or doctor about the option of magnesium tablets.
Emotions
You may feel less tired and less emotional than in the first trimester.
It is important to maintain physical activity, good nutrition and social connectedness. If you are feeling particularly worried, teary, low mood or not yourself, please contact your midwife or doctor.
What else is happening inside my body that you may not feel?
Week 13-16
Your fetus can move and its eyes start to blink.
Week 17-22
Your fetus can suck its thumb, yawn and stretch. You may start to feel movements. Week 19-22 is an ideal time for a detailed ultrasound to assess the baby’s development; a perfect balance between not being too big nor too small to see all the details on the ultrasound.
Week 23-28
You may notice your fetus hiccup. Your will become increasingly aware of the baby’s movement patterns, often being most active when you are trying to rest!
What you can do at this stage?
A healthy nutrition intake and regular exercise are important for you and your baby, and to reduce pregnancy complications.
Continue regular antenatal check-ups with Mikhaila and her midwife, Prue.
Ready for Pregnancy Care?
If you’re ready to start your journey with a passionate female obstetrician, it’s time to make an appointment with Dr Mikhaila Lazanyi.