The second trimester is consider as the ‘honeymoon period’ of pregnancy. For many moms-to-be, it’s a time when morning sickness is gone, energy is up, and the belly starts to bulge. But there are also other symptoms that occur at this stage- expected and those requiring medical attention. And at PregnancyRest, we understand this vital stage of prenatal care & health and we aim at making it easy for you.
Table of contents What’s Normal in the Second Trimester?
1. Increased Energy
In the second trimester, many women, and for good reason, state increased energy due to hormonal fluctuations. Here is your chance to prepare for baby but be sure to take it easy and do get enough rest.
2. Baby Movements
One of the many special moments in the pregnancy is when you first feel your baby kick, commonly referred as “quickening.” Baby’s flipping is normally experienced between the 18th and 22nd weeks of pregnancy though it can occur earlier or even later.
3. Growing Belly and Weight Gain
It is during this time yourbecomes more visible and you gain healthy weight. Strive to strike a nutritional mean to feed the baby while no the other hand sustaining your energy levels.
4. Skin Changes
Hormonal shifts can lead to:
The “Pregnancy Glow”: Blood flow and the production of oil on the skin enhances which gives an individual skin a naturally glowing look.
Stretch Marks: They may show up when your skin pulls. Elasticity is tenacity can be maintained by the application of moisturizer.
Linea Nigra: Again, a black line may develop from your belly button up to your pubic bone.
5. Breathing through nose and nose bleed
Flooding of the circulatory system with hormones leads to expansion of blood vessels in the mucous membrane, sometimes evidenced […] Take a steam to bring relief or use a nasal spray to minimize on the discomfort.
6. Round Ligament Pain
Some women get sharp or dull pains in the lower part of the belly or in the hips due to stretching of your uterus. This should be accompanied by some gentle stretching and then resting the area to lessen this particular symptom.
What’s Not Normal: When to Seek Medical Help
While many symptoms in the second trimester are harmless, some require immediate medical attention:
1. Sharp Contraction or Stomach Ache
Vaginal discomfort may be a sign of an underlying problem such as preterm labor, a problem with the placenta or an infection. Contact your healthcare provider if you have this symptom.
2. Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting
It is common to have some spotting occasional but during the mid and third trimester if it becomes heavy, the problem should be taken to the doctor as it may be due to placental issues or miscarriage.
3. HEADACHES SEVERE OR BLURRED VISION
These may be signs of preeclampsia, medical condition familiar with elevated blood pressure. These are signs, which should be reported to your doctor immediately.
4. Reduced Fetal Movement
Even if the baby movements are not rhythmic at this point, any dramatic reduction in the amount of fetal movement after 20 weeks warrants a conversation with your doctor.
5. Persistent Vomiting
Persistent nausea or vomiting into the second trimester may make the woman dehydrated or malnourished and thus should be investigated.
6. Signs of Infection
Burning when passing urine or having cloudy, dark, bloody or pale yellow urine, or abnormal discharge from the vagina are symptoms of infection.
If you’re struggling with second trimester symptoms, you’ll find useful advice here.
1. One of the most important things should be to schedule antenatal appointments.
They help you follow major milestones of your baby as well as your overall well-being. They are chance to tackle with some issues or signs.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Emphasis should be on filling foods, which contain necessary vitamins such as calcium, iron and omega 3 fatty acids.
3. Stay Active
Stay physically active, but avoid intense activities, such as jogging or aerobic exercises, and opt for a prenatal swimming, prenatal yoga or walking.
4. Stay Hydrated
Hydrate your body a lot because there is massive production of blood which needs more fluid.
5. Use Supportive Clothing
You may therefore require maternity bras and belly bands for the comfort of your body as changes begins.
When to Call Your Doctor
Trust your instincts. Always be comfortable talking to your doctor if something is bothering you or does not seem right. It is important to management incidences before they escalate to bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
The second trimester of pregnancy is another pretty active term of pregnancy and holds a lot of surprises. It is also good to be aware of your normal behavior and what is abnormally different in order to support prenatal care & health and enjoy the wonderful process.
We will provide expectant mothers practical assistance at PregnancyRest, relying on reputable information. Wait for our next articles as we continue to share tips and advice on how you must prepare prior to meeting your little one.
