Excitement and change mark the second trimester of pregnancy
For many women, the second trimester feels like a glorious honeymoon phase. Generally, the nausea and tiredness begin to abate, the baby is growing but not taking up too much space, and many women experience the first flutters of movement. Though you may not realize all that is happening, our San Antonio women’s practice doctors want to prepare patients for the big changes ahead and ensure that you receive the best prenatal care.
The second trimester at a glance
Weeks 13 to 28 of pregnancy are classified as the second trimester. During this time, the fetus is fully formed, and ongoing development occurs rapidly. Most women gain between a half-pound and 1 pound a week. At the end of this time, the baby will be between 13 and 16 inches long, with a weight between 2 and 3 pounds.
The importance of prenatal care
Your doctor will schedule monthly visits where we will assess your weight, blood pressure, size of the uterus, and fetal heartbeat. We will also collect a urine sample to look at glucose and albumin, a protein that may indicate pre-eclampsia. Physically, most women start to show during the second trimester.
Common concerns expressed by our patients during routine prenatal care appointments may include:
- Backaches
- More frequent urination
- Bleeding gums
- Hemorrhoids and varicose veins
- Variations in skin pigmentation
- Braxton Hicks contractions
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, heartburn and indigestion
What happens with fetal development during the second trimester?
Because all the major organs and systems are formed, your baby spends a good amount of this pregnancy phase growing. The fetus starts to kick and move more frequently, fingernail and hair growth occurs, and reflexes such as swallowing and sucking begin. Often, a 20-week sonogram provides the first look at your little one, and we can usually confirm the sex of the baby, if you want to find out.
Managing the emotional side of pregnancy
Though their energy and appetite may have returned, some women may start to worry about labor, delivery and caring for a newborn baby. Mild anxiety about the realities of parenthood is normal, but talk to your doctor at a prenatal care visit if your fears seem unmanageable. Often, mothers-to-be channel their concern into planning and preparation for the new arrival, also called nesting.
As you navigate the second trimester of pregnancy, our San Antonio women’s practice doctors stand ready to answer your questions and alleviate your concerns. Rest assured that our whole team will offer support and compassion, each step of the way. Contact our office for questions about pregnancy and prenatal care.
