As everyone knows, being a mom is not easy, they love and care for their child from day one. Pregnancy is a blessing for every woman and their families. “It is truly a new exciting, adventurous journey with high expectations and anxiety” In that instance, there are certain things to need to concentrate on, for your baby’s growth as well as your welfare in every trimester. Hope you crossed your 1st trimester safely and happily. Now it’s time to know about the next phase of the pregnancy journey. Do’s and don’ts, changes in the body, growth of a fetus, and more, let’s dig them in detail.
Duration of Second Trimester
The second phase starts as soon as you complete 12 weeks or 3 months. It’s the next phase of pregnancy, which lasts for the following 3 months or from week 13 to 26.Symptoms During Second Trimester
Mid-part pregnancy is as important as the first phase. But, moms can enjoy this trimester with less nausea and growing bumps. Other than this, there are many changes and symptoms you can feel, without delay, let’s dig into them in detail.1. Weight Gain
In the second trimester, your baby starts growing, so you can feel an increase in weight. Your belly and breast grow gradually, thus get ready to buy new maternity clothes.2. Swollen and Sensitive Gums
Dental issues are common, your gums become too sensitive while brushing and there is a possibility of bleeding gums. And also, continuous vomiting can damage the enamel of the tooth. Get rid of this situation, by using a softer frizzles toothbrush and floss with salt water.3. Dizziness
When blood for your baby increase, it slowdowns your blood pressure and results in dizziness. Consume more fluids and eat small meals to reduce it.4. Changes in Skin
Color and texture of skin change, you can witness stretch marks, dark brown or black patches, and increased color in particular regions especially the neck and private parts. It is due to increased melanin pigments and hormonal imbalances.5. Unusual Food Carvings
You crave sweets, dairy products, junk food, fruits, carbohydrates, pickles, and cold foods during the 2nd trimester.6. Heavy Mood Swings
Whether it’s period or pregnancy, mood swings are common. When you are in mid part of pregnancy, you can experience heavy oscillations and a rollercoaster of emotions. Overcome this by listening to music, meditation, or with your favorite activities.7. Nasal Problems
An increase in hormone levels leads to make more blood. This action results in swelling and bleeding of the nostrils. Stay hydrated and intake healthy edibles, so your body can maintain balance and stress-free.8. Leg Cramps
It is usual and often happens at night. Before going to bed, give a warm bath or cold massage to reduce it and practice stress-free muscle stretches.Growth of Baby in Second Trimester
From weeks 13 to 26, the baby is very busy growing and gaining weight. Have a look at the following points to be aware of fetus growth. Week 14: Height is about 4 ¾ inches and weighs 4 ounces. Arm and legs developed, and ears completely developed to reach the final position. Week 16: By this week, the fetus can hear and height 5 inches with developed pink skin. Week 18: Many internal parts are fully grown and mothers can feel the baby’s moments. Week 20: Hairs in the body, head, and eyes start growing. Eyelashes will appear, baby’s heartbeat can be heard using a stethoscope. Week 22: Now, the fetus weighs about 1 ¼ pounds and light changes occur in lung development. Week 26: In this week, babies can respond to the outside world and they can hear, taste, move, and give responses in tummies.Second Trimester Emergency Symptoms
During 2nd trimester, the pregnant woman undergoes several changes and has many symptoms. But, you should take extra care and consult the doctor on some emergency conditions like,- High sweating
- Jaundice, vaginal pressure, and frequent urination
- Severe vomiting, abdominal pain or cramping, and dizziness
- A rapid increase in weight or very less weight gain
- Check for maternity leave
- Purchase maternity clothes
- Setup your nursery
- Eat healthy foods
- Get ready for a maternity photo shoot
- Regular parental appointment
- Prepare for scans
- Look for childcare options
- Keep your gums healthy
- Stay hydrated
- Sleep on a side
- Boost immunity
- Keep an eye on your weight
- Practice prenatal workouts
- Prepare for glucose screening test
Things to Avoid In Second Trimester
- Avoid eating certain fruits like papaya, pineapple, etc (after doctor consultation)
- Eliminate raw meat, soft cheese, and unpasteurized dairy products
- Sleeping on your back
- Hot tubs and saunas
- Stressful exercise
- Reduce caffeinated drinks and ban alcohol and cigars