All You Need To Know About Your Second Trimester

Well done, Mum, you’re already in your second trimester!

Experts and veteran mums refer to this phase as the honeymoon period of pregnancy since unwanted pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, fade. Yes, it’s time to finally say goodbye to the morning sickness and fatigue you’ve endured for the past three months.

It’s also when you’re learning more about your growing baby – including finding out about the gender. You’ll also feel the baby’s movement for the first time during the second trimester.

Now that you’re slowly getting back to your energetic self, here are some helpful week-by-week guides and articles that may be useful.

What is the Second Trimester

The second trimester is the middle of pregnancy, which lasts from the 13th to the 27th week. During this time, you may be able to feel your baby’s movements, and you’ll probably have gained some weight by now.

It’s also a great time to start preparing for your baby. Find out what you need to do before the birth, including scheduling prenatal visits and taking care of some paperwork.

When Does the Second Trimester Start

The second trimester pregnancy week starts from the 13th week of your pregnancy. The second trimester is generally considered the most comfortable and enjoyable time in your pregnancy. You will have a lot of energy and feel good about being pregnant.

The baby’s growth has slowed down, but it is still growing at a rapid rate. You will continue to gain weight during this period, but not as much as in the first trimester. Your body prepares itself for childbirth by increasing blood volume and developing an adequate milk supply for breastfeeding.

Some women may experience nausea during this period, but it can be controlled with medication prescribed by their doctors if needed.

The Honeymoon Period of Pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy is often affectionately dubbed the “honeymoon period” due to the relief many expectant mothers experience from the challenging symptoms of the first trimester.

During this phase, which typically spans from weeks 13 to 26, the early symptoms like nausea and fatigue tend to ease up, and many women find themselves with more energy and a renewed sense of well-being. Additionally, the risk of miscarriage decreases, and the baby bump becomes more pronounced, allowing for a feeling of connection with the growing baby.

However, it’s important to note that every pregnancy is unique, and while some women may indeed enjoy this smoother phase, others might still encounter discomfort or complications.

Pregnancy Second Trimester Symptoms

If you’re pregnant, you’ve probably already noticed some changes in your body. But did you know that the second trimester is when most of those changes kick in? It’s also when some common pregnancy symptoms start to appear.

Here are some of the most common second-trimester symptoms:

• Fatigue and sleepiness
• Increased urination frequency
• Increased appetite and cravings for certain foods
• Constipation
• Headaches and back pain
• Changes in taste buds or smell sensitivity

Image source: iStock

Pregnancy Glow

The second trimester is the time of your pregnancy when you start to feel like a real human being again. Your body is starting to look more like it used to, and all of that morning sickness is behind you. You’re starting to feel more energetic and confident in your body and skin, and your sense of smell returns!

You may notice that you’re getting pimples or breakouts here and there—this is normal. Your hormones are still adjusting, and even though they’re not throwing up everything they eat anymore, they’re still undergoing some changes. This can cause acne, but don’t worry—it will go away soon!

Also, you might start feeling more tired and hungrier than usual during this time. That’s because your baby has been growing rapidly over the last few months (and will continue to do so), which means he or she needs more nutrients from you than ever before.

So enjoy the glow while it lasts!

Braxton Hicks

The second trimester is great for getting comfortable with labour and delivery. This is when you’ll start feeling Braxton Hicks contractions. They’re called that because they were first discovered by an English physician named John Braxton Hicks, who noticed that his wife had regular contractions during her pregnancy.

These contractions are your body’s way of getting ready for the real thing: they’ll be uncomfortable but not painful and feel like a tightening in your belly. They’re a sign that your body is getting ready for birth—they just won’t hurt as much as labour itself will!

Fetal Development During Second Trimester

The second trimester is the time when your baby’s body and brain are developing at a rapid pace. You may feel your baby move around and even notice hiccups!

In the second trimester, your baby is about 3 inches long and weighs about 4 ounces. The fetal development during this period can be broken down into three parts:

Brain Development

Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly during this period, especially regarding the neurons connecting different brain areas. This means your baby’s brain is becoming more complex and more organised by the day.

Your baby will start moving his or her arms and legs more now, although these movements are still fairly limited compared to what they’ll be like later in pregnancy or after birth.

Organ Development

Your baby’s organs are also growing rapidly during this stage of development—especially their heart! The blood vessels within their heart will start forming to circulate blood throughout their bodies once they’re born (or before). The lungs also continue to grow in size during this stage of development, so they’re ready for breathing after birth.

Can Babies Born During the Second Trimester Survive

Babies who arrive during the second trimester, usually between weeks 23 and 28 of pregnancy, have a bit of a tougher start because they’re early. The good news is that thanks to medical progress, there’s a better shot at helping these tiny preemies survive and thrive.

Still, it’s important to know that their chances of making it aren’t as high as those born later in pregnancy. These little ones often need a ton of extra medical attention, often in a special place called the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

You see, their organs and stuff, like their lungs, aren’t totally ready yet, so they need some extra help. How things turn out for them can be different based on how healthy they are, how much they weigh, and the quality of medical care provided.

Danger Signs of Pregnancy in the Second Trimester

You’ve probably heard of some of the most common signs of pregnancy, like missed periods and morning sickness. But there are also some less obvious signs that you may still need to be aware of.

The second trimester is often when parents-to-be start to feel more confident in keeping their baby safe, but it’s still important to keep your eyes open for any new developments.

Here are some common danger signs to watch out for in the second trimester:

• Vaginal Bleeding: Any amount of vaginal bleeding during the second trimester should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.

• Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense or persistent abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by fever or other symptoms, requires medical attention.

• Significant Weight Gain or Loss: Sudden or excessive weight gain or loss can signal underlying issues and should be discussed with your doctor.

• Fluid Leakage: If you experience a sudden gush of fluid from your vagina, it could indicate your water breaking prematurely. Contact your healthcare provider right away.

• Severe Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches, often accompanied by visual disturbances, could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.

• Swelling: While some swelling is normal, sudden and excessive swelling of the hands, face, or feet could indicate preeclampsia.

• Reduced Fetal Movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements or if they stop moving altogether, contact your doctor.

• Contractions: Regular, painful contractions before 37 weeks could indicate preterm labor. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience this.

• Dizziness or Fainting: Severe dizziness or fainting episodes require medical evaluation, as they could be related to blood pressure changes.

• Persistent Nausea and Vomiting: While morning sickness is common, persistent and severe nausea and vomiting could indicate a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum that requires treatment.

What to Eat During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

Now that you’re in the second trimester, it’s time to get serious about eating for two—and that means no more skipping meals because you’re too busy.

The most important thing to remember is that your baby has started to grow now, and his or her brain needs a lot of nutrients. That means you need to ensure you’re getting enough protein and iron, which are critical to developing your baby’s brain and muscles.

Iron is found in red meat, seafood like tuna and salmon, eggs, beans, lentils and dark leafy greens like spinach. Protein comes from meat (chicken breast is an excellent choice), eggs and dairy products like milk or yoghurt. You should try to eat these foods at every meal, so your body has plenty of energy for babysitting this little one!

You’ve got a year-long relationship with vegetables ahead of you, so it’s important to start things off on the right foot now. Try to eat five servings of vegetables daily, which means eating approximately six servings per week (three servings at each meal). If it helps, buy fresh veggies instead of frozen ones so that they maintain their nutritional value before you have time to eat them all.

Fruits are high in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which are great for keeping your immune system strong. But since they’re also high in sugar, try to eat only a few fruits unless they’re organic or naturally sweetened (like apples). If you do choose fruit instead of vegetables, aim for two servings per day—or three if they’re organic

Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide for Your Second Trimester

• Week 13
• Week 14 
• Week 15 
• Week 16 
• Week 17 
• Week 18 
• Week 19
• Week 20
• Week 21 
• Week 22
• Week 23
• Week 24
• Week 25 
• Week 26

Useful Information for the Second Trimester

Changes to Expect for Each Trimester of Pregnancy

Compulsory And Optional Pregnancy Scans In Singapore

Everything You Need to Know About Your Baby’s Movements in Pregnancy: Trimester by Trimester

Breaking Down Safe Sleeping Positions Trimester by Trimester, to Avoid Stillbirth

7 Ways To Prevent Muscle Cramps During Second Trimester Of Pregnancy

Is It a Boy or a Girl?: When Can You Find Out Your Baby’s Gender

Early Signs That You Might Be Pregnant With Twins

When To Stop Travelling While Pregnant? Here Are Tips For Travelling Safely By Air, Road And Sea

Going On a Babymoon? Here Are a Few Things To Keep In Mind

55 Creative Pregnancy Announcement Ideas To Totally Steal

Sex During Pregnancy: Safe Positions Per Trimester

Dealing With Mood Swings In Pregnancy? Here’s The Truth!

Babies and pets: Can they co-exist?

8 Household Chores You Should Avoid While You’re Pregnant

Sports and Exercises That Are Safe During Pregnancy

Maternity Hospitals in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide for New Parents

Pregnancy Health

Understanding Prenatal Testing: The Tests You Need to Have Per Trimester

Essential Vaccines You Need During Pregnancy

How Much Pregnancy Weight Should You Gain?

Fetal Development Stages: Your Guide To The Complete Pregnancy Period

Baby’s Movements Through Pregnancy: What’s Normal & What’s Not?

Diarrhoea During Pregnancy: What Mums-To-Be Need to Know

Constipation During Pregnancy: What Is Safe To Take?

Dengue Fever in Pregnancy: Why You Should Be Careful About This Disease

Baby Hiccups During Pregnancy: When Should You Be Concerned

How Your Child’s Senses Develop In Your Womb

Headache During Pregnancy: Causes and Remedies

Here’s How You Should Take Care of Your Eyes If You’re Pregnant!

Back Pain During Pregnancy – Can You Prevent It?

A Bloody Nuisance! Nosebleeds During Pregnancy

Varicose Veins and Haemorrhoids in Pregnancy: Causes and Solutions

Toxoplasmosis and Pregnancy: Here’s What Mums-to-Be Should Know

How To Deal With Pregnancy Fatigue

Pregnancy and Colds: Everything You Need to Know

Pregnant With Cough? 9 Ways To Cope Without Losing Your Cool

For the Dads

Husband’s Support During Pregnancy: A Guide for All Expecting Fathers

7 amazing pregnancy perks daddies-to-be can look forward to

6 Ways to keep your husband involved during pregnancy

What Are the Sex Positions to Avoid When Pregnant?

Food and Nutrition

Nutrients and Vitamins Needed By Mums During Pregnancy

Here’s How Much Water You Should Be Drinking During Pregnancy

15 Foods and Drinks All Pregnant Mums Should Avoid For Baby’s Health

Can I Eat Papaya During Pregnancy?

A Guide To Eating Fish During Pregnancy

Dieting During Pregnancy? All You Need To Know About Vegetarian, Pescatarian, and Gluten-free Diet

Is Canned Food Safe for Pregnant Women? Here’s What You Need to Know

Here’s What You Should Remember About Drinking Green Tea During Pregnancy

If you have any concerns about your health or your baby’s health in the second trimester of pregnancy, do not hesitate to ask your OB-Gynaecologist during your next check-up.

Updates by Pheona Ilagan

Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.