Second Trimester Pregnancy

Second Trimester Pregnancy

The second trimester spanning from 13th to 27th week of pregnancy is typically the easiest of all trimesters of pregnancy. Many unpleasant symptoms from the first trimester, most notably morning sickness will disappear by the beginning of the 13th week, however, the rapid growth of your baby can worsen some of the discomforts from the first trimester and lead to development of new unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy. You may experience some of the following symptoms during the second three months of your pregnancy:

Frequent urination. Many women do not feel the need to urinate as frequently by the beginning of the 13th week of pregnancy but it is possible to experience frequent urination throughout your pregnancy. In addition, the relief you may experience in the second three months of pregnancy is only temporary. Increased urinary frequency will probably return later in pregnancy as a result of the growing baby putting increased pressure on your bladder.

Enlargement of breasts. Soreness and tenderness you may have experienced in the first trimester will go away in the second but you will notice your breasts becoming larger.

Headaches. Frequent yet mild headaches from the first trimester can continue into the second. They are most often caused by a combination of physical changes and the excitement about the arrival of the baby.

Backache. Rapid growth of your baby and weight gain can result in back pain.

Skin changes. You may be told that you are glowing which is due to the hormonal changes making you look flushed. It is also possible to develop dark patches on the skin, in the first place on your face which is known as mask of pregnancy. This patches typically disappear after labor. During the second trimester you may also notice the first stretch marks on your abdomen, breasts, buttocks and/or thighs.

Constipation and heartburn. Both constipation and heartburn are relatively common pregnancy complaints that typically start in the first trimester and may continue into the second three months of pregnancy.

Hemorrhoids. Swollen veins around your anus that can be painful or itchy are a result of increased blood flow and pressure of the enlarging uterus. Constipation further increases the risk of hemorrhoids.

Swelling. You may notice your ankles and face appear swollen during the second three months of your pregnancy as a result of water retention. Mild swelling is not a cause of concern but if you experience a sudden or severe swelling seek prompt medical attention because it may signal preeclampsia, a dangerous pregnancy complication.

Spider and varicose veins. The circulatory changes and pressure on your legs due to weight gain can cause spider and varicose veins.

Increased appetite and weight gain. By the end of the first trimester you will experience increased appetite and started adding more weight from the fourth month onwards. However, keep in mind that you need about extra 500 calories a day during your second three months of pregnancy and that you should be gaining about ½ to 1 pound per week.

You will not be experiencing only unpleasant symptoms during the second trimester, however. Most women feel more energetic and experience the first kicks of their baby. It may be also worth to keep in mind that the period from the 13th to the 27th week will be the easiest period of your pregnancy, so you should take advantage of it to start the preparations for the arrival of the baby.