The second trimester starts at 15 weeks into being pregnant. These times are said to be the most enjoyable, with some of the “morning sickness” fading off. The second trimester is one of the easiest as your body is adjusting to the increased levels of hormones. Moreover, some women have noticed their baby’s growth with the arrival of baby bumps. With so many exciting changes occurring, here is what to expect while entering the second trimester of pregnancy.
Emotionally, many women feel much less overwhelmed. The first trimester is filled with emotional turmoil as mothers stress over whether they are prepared for a child. During the second trimester, many mothers have gotten used to the idea of being pregnant, and the feeling of exhaustion from the influx of hormone have lessened. There may still be feelings of anxiety, but these feelings are normal and can be dealt with by setting yourself up for pregnancy (i.e., learning about the company’s maternity leave policy).
Physically, there still some big changes occurring:
Growing Belly and Breasts
To make room for your growing baby, your uterus will expand which makes the belly area grow. Also, breasts will continue to gradually increase in size as well. Pro tips: a supportive bra with wide straps or a sports bra will help with support!
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You might feel mild, irregular contractions—these contractions usually occur in the abdomen as a slight tightness. These contractions generally happen in the afternoon or evening, after physical activity, or after sex. If these contractions become regular and steadily increase in strength, be sure to contact your health care provider, as this could be a sign of preterm labor.
Nasal Problems
With the rise of hormone levels, the body responds by making more blood which causes the mucous membrane to swell and bleed easily–resulting in stuffiness or nosebleeds. Saline drop, hydration, or humidifiers can help lessen congestion.
Dizziness
The body undergoes changes that affect the circulation of blood within the body—the result is a feeling of dizziness. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, avoid standing for long periods of time, and slowly stand up or change positions.
Vaginal Discharge
You might notice a sticky, clear, or white vaginal discharge. This is completely normal but be sure to contact your health care provides if the discharge: has a strong odor, changes colors, or is accompanied by pain/itchiness. These could indicate a vaginal infection.
The second trimester is met with a lot of growth and changes but it is an exciting and wonderful time. With so many changes, it is important to stay up to date with prenatal appointments. These appointments help by ensuring all the growth and symptoms of the second trimester are normal. These appointments also give a chance for expecting mothers to hear their child’s heartbeat and find out the sex. While overwhelming at some points, this trimester is met with so many wonderful opportunities to recognize how much closer one is to meeting their new baby.
Resources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20047732
Skin Changes
The hormonal change during pregnancy provokes an increase in specific skin cells which results in brown patches on your face or a dark line down your abdomen. These changes are common and tend to fade after delivery. It is important, however, to limit sun exposure as it can darken these marks. Finally, stretch marks may appear throughout the body and cannot be prevented. A lot of the stretch marks, however, fade in intensity.
Dental Issues
Gums become more sensitive to flossing and brushing and frequent vomiting can affect your tooth enamel. Switching to a softer brush and rinsing with salt water can help decrease irritation but it is important to be up to date with dental care during pregnancy.
Leg Cramps
Leg cramps are common and usually occur at night. To prevent leg cramps, be sure to have routine stretches before bed while maintaining an active lifestyle. If a cramp does strike, be sure to stretch the affected calf muscle. Hot showers, warm baths, and ice massages have also been shown to help.
Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs are common during pregnancy. Be sure to contact your health care provider if you have a strong urge to urinate or can’t delay urination, experience sharp pain when you urinate, have urine that is cloud, have a strong smell, experience a fever, or a backache. If left untreated, UTIs can become severe and result in a kidney infection.
