When the second trimester arrives, you will most likely experience relief from the morning sickness of the first trimester, and the tiredness should also be less of a problem. For some women, the sickness continues, but just because it extends into the second trimester doesn?t mean you are stuck with it as a permanent feature. Try to see things like this ? with every passing day, the chances of your morning sickness fading or going away completely get better and better.
Development
The second trimester is an important time for your baby’s development; while they are almost fully formed by the time the second trimester comes round, this middle phase of pregnancy is when the teeth and bones become stronger, the organs develop further, they develop hair and most excitingly, they begin moving around!
First Movements
One of the most exciting waits of pregnancy is waiting to feel that first kick or punch. If this is your first pregnancy, it may take a little longer for you to feel the flutters of movement that tell you your baby is moving around. After the 16th week, this wait begins in earnest ? any time now you may feel baby move. However, some women feel nothing until later, it is normal not to feel anything until around the 25th week, especially with a first baby. These movements might feel like butterflies, a sort of rumbling, tumbling feeling or just little jabs? don?t worry if they are hard to distinguish from other niggles such as wind! In time, you will be in no doubt whenever your baby decides to have a roll or a wriggle.
Practicalities
During the second trimester, you will be monitored more and will have more tests including scans for anomalies; your doctor or midwife should make it clear what tests and scans you will be having, when they will take place and why they are happening. However, this doesn?t mean that you can?t request other investigations if you have any reason to suspect something is wrong with you or the baby.
Pains
During the Second trimester you may experience pains and twinges known as round ligament pains. These are common, ranging from mild discomfort to quite severe pain. Round ligament pain is your body stretching and preparing for birth, but if you are concerned, speak to your health professional. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any pain relief during pregnancy and avoid if you can.
Change Everywhere
Your body will also change in other ways ? your skin and hair might be completely different. Some women have a beautiful glow, their skin is clear and healthy and their hair is thick and gorgeous. Others get spots, feel greasy and have thin, lank hair. It really is the luck of the draw, or rather how your body reacts to pregnancy hormones! This too can change, so if you glow, enjoy it, and if you look less than your best, take heart that this will change!
Further pregnancy related information can be found at the HSE website
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