• The 4th, 5th and 6th months of pregnancy make the second trimester
• You are likely to feel relieved from the bothersome pregnancy symptoms during this time
• You can expect to feel your baby move inside the belly during the 2nd trimester

The period between 13-28 weeks marks the second trimester of pregnancy. Your baby continues to grow and your bump begins to look larger and more profound.

During the 2nd trimester, your morning sickness will likely subside and you will adapt to newer changes.

Though most of your troubling symptoms will ease by the second trimester, your body will continue to change to host the baby’s growth. You can expect the following second trimester symptoms or changes in your body:

• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Back pain
• Bleeding gums or dental problems
• Nasal congestion
• Braxton-Hicks contractions
• Breast enlargement
• Vaginal discharge
• Lightheadedness
• Increased appetite
• Increased frequency to urinate
• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Varicose veins
• Urinary tract infections
• Cramps in the legs
• Changes in your skin
• Weight gain

Most of your baby’s organs have begun to form by the 2nd trimester. Your fetus will now continue to grow in a baby. Here are some changes that your fetus undergoes during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy:

• Your baby’s lungs are fully formed
• You will experience your baby’s movements such as kicking and turning
• Your baby can swallow and hear your voice
• Eyelids can open and shut
• Eyelashes and eyebrows begin to grow
• Your baby will develop distinct fingerprint and toe prints
• The placenta is completely formed
• Your baby will experience hair growth on the head
• Your baby will develop waking and sleeping cycles
• Your baby’s organs like kidneys and liver begin to function
• Your baby will develop a creamy white substance called vernix caseosa to help protect the skin

The second trimester of pregnancy is often the easiest for most women. It is because the troubling symptoms are gone and your baby has not grown large enough to make you uncomfortable. However, you would require similar levels of caution and care during the 2nd trimester.

Here are some points to consider during the second trimester of your pregnancy:

• Consult your obstetrician and understand your chances of high-risk pregnancy
• Take plenty of rest
• Continue your prenatal vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids
• Consume sufficient nutrients daily
• Ask your doctor about the exercise regime
• Practice pelvic floor strengthening exercises
• Visit your dentist
• Avoid engaging in strenuous physical activity
• Avoid drinking and smoking
• Cut down your caffeine consumption
• Consider prenatal genetic screening
• Get immunized