What Will Happen to My Body in the Second Trimester?
Good news mumma, the second trimester is often called the honeymoon phase of pregnancy. The nausea and exhaustion usually start to fade and most women feel a real surge of energy. But your body is still changing a lot and I want you to know what’s coming so nothing catches you off guard.
Weight and Energy
From week 13 onwards you’ll start gaining about one pound a week, around 15 pounds total through this trimester. And alongside that most mummas notice their energy coming back beautifully. Enjoy it.
Stuffy Nose
About 40 percent of pregnant women get a blocked nose during pregnancy. Higher estrogen causes your nasal passages to swell and produce more mucus. Try saline drops, a warm steamy shower (under 10 minutes) or sleeping with an extra pillow. Avoid cold medications without checking with your doctor first.
Bleeding Gums
Your gums become softer and more sensitive during pregnancy which can cause them to bleed when you brush. Keep up with gentle brushing and mention it to your dentist.
Skin, Hair and Nails
The good news, you might get that famous pregnancy glow. Your hair and nails will likely grow thicker and stronger. Enjoy that part.
Other changes to expect though, brownish patches may appear on your face called the mask of pregnancy. A dark line might appear down the centre of your belly. Both fade after birth. Stretch marks may appear on your belly, hips, bum and breasts as your skin stretches. Keeping skin moisturised helps with the itchiness. You’ll also sweat more than usual.
Your Breasts
The tenderness from the first trimester usually eases. But your nipples will become bigger and darker. Around week 20 your breasts may start leaking a yellowish fluid called colostrum, your body’s first milk. Completely normal and a beautiful sign your body is already preparing.
Aches and Pains
You might feel dull aches around your hips or sharp pains in your lower belly when you change positions and that’s just your body stretching and making room for your baby.
Back pain is really common too as your belly grows and puts pressure on your lower back.
Leg cramps especially at night are very common, usually from dehydration and the weight of your uterus pressing on nerves in your legs. Staying hydrated really helps.
Hands and Feet
You might feel numbness or tingling in your hands and wrists, fluid buildup can press on your nerves. Swelling in your hands and feet is also common.
And here’s one nobody warns you about, your feet might actually go up half a size or even a full size permanently. The hormone relaxin loosens the ligaments in your feet. So if your shoes feel tight that might be why.
Feeling Dizzy
Your blood vessels are relaxing and more blood is going to your baby which can cause your blood pressure to drop and make you feel lightheaded. Get up slowly, stay hydrated and mention frequent dizziness to your doctor.
Varicose Veins and Haemorrhoids
The weight of your growing uterus can cause bulging veins on your legs. When this happens in the bottom area they are called haemorrhoids. Ice packs and safe creams from your pharmacist can help.
Heartburn and Digestion
Heartburn gets worse as your baby grows and takes up more space. Eat smaller meals, avoid spicy and greasy food and don’t eat right before bed. Constipation is common too. Keep up your fiber and water intake.
Needing to Pee All the Time
Your growing uterus is pressing on your bladder. Completely normal and unfortunately just part of the journey for now. đŸ˜„
Vaginal Discharge and Infections
You’ll notice more vaginal discharge than usual, your body’s way of keeping things clean and healthy. You’re also more prone to yeast infections and UTIs during this time. Wear cotton underwear, shower instead of bath and see your doctor if anything feels uncomfortable or unusual.
Libido
Surging hormones and increased blood flow can actually cause your libido to increase this trimester which makes your orgasms more intense. Completely normal mumma.
Sleep
Heartburn, bathroom trips, vivid dreams and restless legs can all disrupt your sleep. Sleep on your left side, it’s the safest position for you and your baby. A pillow between your knees helps with comfort.
Up to 25 percent of pregnant women experience restless leg syndrome, a jittery uncomfortable feeling in your legs that keeps you awake. Increasing your iron and folate intake can help with this.
Baby Brain
Yes it’s real. Forgetfulness during pregnancy is an actual symptom caused by hormones. Write things down and be gentle with yourself.
Up to 23 percent of women also experience prenatal depression, sadness, anxiety and difficulty concentrating. If this feels like you please speak to your doctor. You don’t have to carry that alone.
Braxton Hicks
You might start feeling occasional tightening in your belly. These are practice contractions, your uterus getting ready for labour. Usually painless and irregular. If they become painful or regular, contact your doctor.
Your body is doing so much right now mumma. Every ache, every change, every strange new thing, it’s all just proof that something beautiful is happening inside you.
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