The second trimester of pregnancy is often the most enjoyable. The excitement of discovering the pregnancy—as well as the morning sickness—has worn off a little by now, and you may feel a renewed sense of well-being. At this point, the baby isn’t big enough to make you uncomfortable, but there’s more on What to Expect in the Second Trimester of Your Pregnancy
the way. Here’s what to expect in the second trimester of your pregnancy.
Emotional Changes
During the second trimester, you’ll start to feel less tired and more ready to take on new challenges. Namely, you’ll want to start getting ready for the baby and the things they’ll need. Find a pediatrician for your baby, and sign up for parenting classes. You might begin worrying about labor and giving birth and the impending parenthood—put those concerns to rest by reading and learning as much as you can. Focus on making healthy lifestyle choices to give your baby the best possible start.
Prenatal Care
In the second trimester of your pregnancy, expect a change in the prenatal appointments. They’ll begin to focus on your baby’s growth and development and on detecting any health problems. This will include at least one ultrasound, and maybe more if the doctor deems it necessary. These ultrasounds will be able to accurately tell you the sex of your baby and determine their overall health.
Braxton Hicks
Braxton Hicks contractions are normal in this stage. These are mild, irregular contractions that manifest as tightness in the abdomen. They’re more likely to happen in the afternoon or evening after physical activity or sex. If they continue and increase in strength, you should contact your ob-gyn, as they could also be a sign of premature birth.
Changes in the Skin
During pregnancy, hormonal changes stimulate an increase in melanin in the skin. Because of this extra melanin, you might see brown spots on your face and a dark line down your belly. The changes are very common, and they fade soon after delivery.
Nasal Issues
Your hormone levels during pregnancy increase, and the body produces more blood. This can make the mucous membranes swell and bleed easily, resulting in nosebleeds and stuffiness. You can manage the symptoms by drinking plenty of fluids, staying hydrated, and using moisturizer around the nostrils.
