The second trimester starts in week 14 of pregnancy and lasts through the end of week 27.
The fetus begins to gain volume to reach about 900 grams at week 27.
Symptoms of the second trimester of pregnancy
The most common symptoms during the second trimester of pregnancy:
1. Enlarged breasts
Breasts continue to grow, due to accumulated additional fat, and preparation for milk production. However, some of the first breast pain improves. It is preferable to use a chest supporting bra.
2. Increase the size of the abdomen
The uterus becomes heavier and expands to make room for the baby, expecting to gain 3 to 4 lbs (about 1.4 to 1.8 kg) per month until birth.
If you are overweight or obese before pregnancy, your healthcare provider may advise you to lose some weight.
Collaborate with your healthcare provider to determine what is best for your condition and manage your weight during pregnancy.
3. Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions in the abdomen. They are usually light.
Contact your healthcare provider if contractions become painful or regular. This may be a sign of early labor.
4. Skin changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy stimulate the increase of melanoma cells in your skin. As a result, you may notice dark spots on your face. You may also notice, dim, dim lines below the abdomen (black lines).
These skin changes are common and usually go away gradually after birth.
5. Stretch marks
You may notice pink or red marks along the abdomen, breasts, buttocks, during the second trimester of pregnancy.
6. Nose and gum problems
Pregnancy increases circulation, more blood flows through the body's mucous membranes. This causes the lining of the nose and airway to bulge, which may limit airflow and lead to snoring, congestion, and nosebleeds.
Increased blood circulation can also weaken the gums, which can cause minor bleeding when brushing or cleaning teeth with dental floss.
7. Dizziness
Pregnancy causes blood vessels to expand and lower blood pressure, which can make you feel dizzy. If you have dizziness, drink plenty of fluids and slowly get off the rest or sit down.
When you feel dizzy, lie on the left side to restore blood pressure.
8. Leg cramps
Leg cramps are common as pregnancy progresses and often occur at night.
To help prevent leg cramps during pregnancy, lengthen your leg belly muscles before bedtime.
Stay physically active and drink plenty of fluids.
Bathe in hot water or lie in warm water.
9. Vaginal discharge
You may notice thin white vaginal discharge.
These acidic secretions are thought to help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
You may want to wear odorless women's diapers to feel comfortable.
Contact your healthcare provider if the discharge becomes odorless, green, or yellow, or if it is accompanied by pain, discomfort, or itching, this may indicate a vaginal infection.
10. Bladder and kidney infection
Hormonal changes slow down the flow of urine, and this may be a prelude to uterine dilation - both factors that increase the risk of bladder and kidney infection.
Contact your healthcare provider if you feel pain when urinating or have a fever or back pain.
11. Heartburn
Heartburn increases by increasing the pressure of the uterus on it. As the mouth of the stomach is open due to muscle relaxing due to hormones, the food bounces back up, causing this feeling of heartburn and acidity. If the baby's foot is directed towards the stomach, it is possible to kick it back into your mouth.
12. Difficulty breathing
As your abdomen grows and compresses the lungs, you'll feel shortness of breath.
Eating large amounts of food makes it worse. It is therefore important to ensure that small amounts of food are eaten, not to move or to exert too much effort.