For many pregnant people, the second trimester is when the sickness and nausea they experienced during the first three months start to settle. This phase is a really important time for a baby's development, and it can really help to understand the changes that are happening at every stage.
So, let's run through how long the second trimester lasts, answer some frequently asked questions, and talk about the common second-trimester symptoms that pregnant people encounter, from reduced morning sickness to baby's first kicks!
How long is the second trimester of pregnancy?
The second trimester begins at the start of the 13th week of pregnancy. It lasts for 15 weeks until the 27th week.
When does the second-trimester end?
The second trimester finishes at the end of the 27th week of pregnancy. From this point, you move into the third trimester which continues until birth.
Second-trimester symptoms and changes to your body
Now that you know when the second trimester begins and ends, let's go through some of the common pregnancy symptoms that people encounter during these important months.
- Colostrum: In the first few weeks of the second trimester, your boobs may start to produce colostrum or first milk that's thick and yellow.
- Feeling hotter: Hormonal changes can make you feel warmer than usual - no matter the season! Keeping the room you're in cool and wearing loose clothes can help.
- Feeling more energised: As morning sickness symptoms (hopefully) begin to subside, you may find that you have more energy - great news! Now you can really start getting ready for your baby's arrival but remember not to overdo it and make plenty of time to chill too.
- Haemorrhoids or piles: These can be uncomfortable and often get worse as pregnancy progresses. Asking your doctor about your treatment options early can help keep them under control.
- Heartburn: Indigestion in pregnancy is usually caused by hormonal changes - an increase in progesterone - and the growing baby pressing on your stomach. Although it can be uncomfortable, lifestyle changes and medicines that are safe to take when pregnant can help.
- Larger boobs: Growing milk glands and deposits of fat mean that your boobs may continue to get bigger in preparation for breastfeeding.
- Leg cramps: Lower leg cramps can happen at nighttime. You may find that stretching before bed and doing regular light exercise will help.
- Pain in your back, pelvis, and hips: During pregnancy, your hormones relax your ligaments to help your bones move in preparation for birth. As your baby grows and your body adapts, your back, hips and pelvis may begin to ache, and you might experience round ligament pain.
- Sensitive or bleeding gums: Also known as gingivitis, your gums may become bright red and bleed easily. If this does happen, it's best to seek support from your dentist.
- Skin changes: Your nipples may become darker, and you might develop a line that runs from your pubic area up to your belly button (called the linea nigra).
- Stretch marks: It's common for stretch marks (also known as striae distensae) to appear on the stomach and breasts during pregnancy.
- Thicker hair: You'll start to see your hair get thicker and glossier throughout the second trimester.
Second-trimester pregnancy belly week by week
Over the second trimester, your baby bump will grow gradually. You'll start to feel your baby moving between weeks 16 to 20 which may feel like flutters, twitches, or tumbles.
Baby's growth and development in the second trimester
During the second trimester of pregnancy, a baby undergoes significant growth and development.
By week 14, a baby's ears and eyes are fully formed, and they can hear voices and other sounds outside the womb. Around week 16, they'll start to develop the ability to taste and swallow amniotic fluid.
By the time week 20 comes around, they can now move around freely in the amniotic fluid and may even start to kick and punch. Their organs will be fully developed by week 28.
Signs your pregnancy is going well in the second trimester
As you progress through your second trimester, it's normal to wonder if everything is going well with your pregnancy.
Remember to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider, but the following signs can help give you peace of mind that your pregnancy is going well.
- Increasing energy levels: Many people find that they have more energy during the second trimester as their bodies adjust to the changes of pregnancy.
- Visible baby bump: This is an exciting milestone for many expectant parents. As your baby grows, your belly will start to show. Don't forget to snap some pics to track the progress of your pregnancy!
- Decreasing nausea: While some people still experience nausea in the second trimester, it typically subsides as the pregnancy progresses.
- Foetal movement: Around 16 to 20 weeks, you may start to feel your baby's movements, which is a sign that they're growing and developing as expected.
- Stable vital signs: Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure, weight, and other vital signs at each prenatal appointment. If these are stable, it's a good sign that your pregnancy is progressing as it should.
Danger signs of pregnancy in your second trimester
During the second trimester, it's important that you're aware of certain warning signs so that you can act fast and seek medical support if you do feel worried about anything. Warning signs to be aware of throughout the second trimester include:
- Blurred vision: Pregnancy can sometimes cause slight changes in your vision and your prescription may need to be adjusted slightly if you usually wear glasses. However, developing blurring of your vision that you didn't experience before you became pregnant should always be treated seriously and you should always seek medical advice because it may be a sign of a condition known as pre-eclampsia. Other symptoms of pre-eclampsia include easy bruising, a headache that doesn't go away, and severe pain on your right side or in your stomach.
- Fever: A fever or high temperature above 37.5°C during pregnancy could harm you and your baby and needs immediate medical attention.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding: You should always speak to your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding from your vagina during pregnancy.
- Mental health struggles: Don't hesitate to seek support if you're pregnant and feeling depressed, anxious or like you can't complete your usual, everyday tasks - especially if these feelings last for two weeks or longer.
- Severe abdominal pain: If you're pregnant and concerned about stomach pains, it's best to speak to your doctor or midwife for reassurance.
- Swelling in your ankles, face, or hands: Sudden swelling in these areas can be a sign of pre-eclampsia and require medical attention.
