Are you pregnant? Congratulations! This guide is for you.
The second trimester of pregnancy is an important time. It’s when your baby starts to grow and develop quickly. You’ll want to be prepared for all the changes happening in your body and your baby’s development.
We’ve got everything you need to know about the second trimester of pregnancy. We want you to have a healthy and happy pregnancy, so read on!
What is the second trimester of pregnancy?
Most pregnant women can expect to experience changes in their bodies during each of the three trimesters. Early pregnancy is when you’re most likely going through rapid growth and physical transformation, with some experts believing that hormones like estrogen play an important role at this time for mental health as well!
The second trimester is a great time to enjoy the joys of motherhood. This stage starts from weeks 13-26 and can be when you might experience less nausea. You might also experience other exciting changes such as hair growth or new muscle mass!
Changes in your body during pregnancy in the second trimester
- Swollen ankles and feet
For many women, the second trimester of pregnancy is the most comfortable. The nausea and fatigue of the first trimester have dissipated, and they haven’t yet reached the point where they’re feeling burdened by the extra weight. However, there is one common second-trimester complaint: mild swelling of the ankles and feet. This condition, known as edema, is experienced by about 3 in 4 pregnant women. It typically starts at around week 22 of pregnancy and lasts until delivery.
While edema can be uncomfortable, there are several things you can do to reduce puffiness. First, try to keep active; second, kick up your feet when you’re not moving; third, avoid long periods of standing or sitting; and fourth, sleep on your side. By following these simple suggestions, you can help minimize the discomfort of edema and enjoy a more pleasant pregnancy.
- Bleeding gums
Many pregnant women find that their gums become more sensitive during the second trimester of pregnancy. This is caused by the increased levels of hormones in the body, which can cause inflammation. In some cases, this may lead to a small amount of bleeding when brushing or flossing. However, it is important to see your dentist if your gums are bright red and bleed easily, as this could be a sign of gingivitis.
Gingivitis is relatively harmless on its own, but it can develop into a bigger problem if it’s not properly treated. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat gingivitis, so be sure to talk to your dentist about the best plan of action for you.
- Leg cramps
As any woman who has been through pregnancy can attest, the second trimester is when many of the most uncomfortable symptoms start to kick in. One of the most common and annoying problems is leg cramps. These can range from mild to excruciating, and they usually happen at night, making it hard to get a good night’s sleep. While the exact cause of leg cramps is not known, it is believed that they are related to the increased weight and hormones of pregnancy.
Additionally, a lack of calcium or magnesium may contribute to leg cramps. Be sure to eat a healthy diet during pregnancy and talk to your doctor if you are experiencing severe leg cramps. There are some simple stretches and exercises that can help to ease the pain of leg cramps.
- Feeling dizzy
Dizziness during pregnancy is common, especially in the second trimester. It occurs when your blood vessels widen and relax, which increases blood flow to your baby but slows your blood pressure down.
The best way to reduce symptoms is to take it easy, eat plenty of small meals, and fill up on fluids. If you can, try to avoid standing for long periods of time or moving too quickly. If you start to feel dizzy, sit or lie down right away and drink some water. maternity leave from work may be necessary if your symptoms are severe. Dizziness during pregnancy should go away after you give birth. Until then, try to rest as much as possible and stay hydrated.
- Weight gain
Gaining weight during pregnancy is totally normal, and in fact, it’s one of the signs that your pregnancy is progressing as it should. Most women gain between 10 and 15 pounds during their second trimester, with the majority of the weight gain happening in the last three months. While it’s normal to feel a little anxious about putting on extra pounds, there’s no need to worry – your body is simply preparing for childbirth and the demands of breastfeeding.
Your baby’s growth during the second trimester of pregnancy
Your baby will develop from roughly 7.5cm and 30 grams in week 13 to around 23cm and 820 grams in week 26 during the second trimester.
Your baby will be able to move about freely within the amniotic sac in your uterus. This movement may be felt as a slight tickling or fluttering by week 19. Your baby’s organs will continue to grow throughout these three months, and the liver, pancreas, and kidneys will all begin to work. Although the ears have not yet fully grown, your baby can hear sounds, including your heartbeat, and can start to recognize your voice by week 20.
About Millennium Medical Group
Millennium Medical Group provides top-notch neonatal care for newborn babies and vulnerable mothers. We take pride in delivering consistent, continuous care to achieve the highest quality of service possible.
Consult with the best neonatal care provider today! Visit our website or get in touch with us at 855-222-9637.
