How is the second trimester defined?
Pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks. Three trimesters are used to organize the weeks. 13 to 27 weeks are included in the second trimester of pregnancy.
In the second trimester, the fetus gets larger and stronger, and many mothers develop a larger abdomen. Most women find the second trimester to be much easier than the first, but it is still crucial to remain informed throughout the second trimester of pregnancy. Understanding your pregnancy week by week will assist you in making educated decisions and preparing for upcoming significant changes.
What changes occur within the body during the second trimester?
Symptoms you may have experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy continue to improve throughout the second trimester. According to many women, nausea and fatigue begin to subside during the second trimester, making it the simplest and most joyful portion of their pregnancy.
Possible changes and symptoms include the following:
- The uterus swells
- Your abdomen is growing larger
- Vertigo or lightheadedness resulting from low blood pressure
- Observing the baby's movements
- Body aches
- Increased hunger
- Stretch marks on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks
What occurs during the fetal second trimester?
During the second trimester, the organs of the fetus are fully formed. Additionally, the infant can begin to hear and swallow. Small hairs can now be seen. In the latter stages of the second trimester, the baby will start to move. It will establish sleep and wake patterns that a pregnant lady would observe.
The American Pregnancy Association reports that after the second trimester, the baby will be approximately 14 inches long and weigh about two pounds.
How can you maintain good health throughout the second trimester?
It is essential to know what to do and what to avoid as your pregnancy progresses. This will assist you in caring for yourself and your growing child.
What should one do?
- Continue to take prenatal vitamins.
- Exercise regularly.
- Exercise your pelvic floor using Kegel exercises.
- Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and fiber.
- Drink lots of water.
- Consume enough calories (about 300 calories more than normal).
Pains, blood loss, and discharge
During the second trimester of pregnancy, some pain or discomfort is usual. Additionally, spotting and minute amounts of blood may be innocuous. However, you should not disregard some types of pain, bleeding, and vaginal discharge.
During your pregnancy, you may or may not suffer an emergency, but you will likely endure discomfort or pain. Many pregnant women have pain throughout the second trimester, despite the absence of a medical problem.
Abdominal discomfort, back pain, headaches, leg cramps, and hand pain are not usually indicative of a health issue. The ability to recognize and alleviate these common discomforts will prove beneficial throughout your pregnancy.
1. Abdominal pain
Abdominal discomfort may be a typical pregnancy symptom or a warning of something more dangerous, such as premature labor or an ectopic pregnancy. Due to the possibility of a catastrophic complication, it is essential to inform your doctor if you experience abdominal pain of any kind.
2. Back pain
Back pain is extremely prevalent during pregnancy. The hormones of pregnancy soften and relax the pelvic joints in preparation for birthing. In the second trimester, as your uterus grows, your center of gravity shifts.
You begin to alter your gait to handle the added weight. Moreover, as the uterus pulls against the abdominal muscles, the abdominal wall may become weakened. These variables may all contribute to back pain, strain, and discomfort.
During the second trimester of pregnancy, abdominal discomfort is typically caused by strain in the ligaments and muscles of the pelvis. These become stretched when the uterus enlarges to accommodate the expanding fetus.
3. Migraines
Many pregnant women suffer from regular headaches. You may still be suffering from headaches that began during the first trimester, or you may be experiencing them for the first time today.
Changes in hormone levels, tension, weariness, hunger, and stress are all to blame. Relax, get adequate rest, and eat regularly.
4. Leg cramps
Leg cramps are prevalent in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, although no one knows exactly why. Possible causes include insufficient calcium consumption, excessive phosphorus intake, or fatigue.
The uterus may be putting pressure on the nerves that supply the legs. No matter the source, you may awaken in the middle of the night with painful cramps.
What To Eat During The Second Trimester Of Pregnancy:
According to a renowned health website, during the second trimester, it is essential to consume meals high in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. The discomfort and unease experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy gradually subside, while hunger levels grow. However, you must ensure that the meal is healthy and fresh for the body to absorb the maximum amount of nutrients.
1. Iron-rich foods
As the blood volume grows during the second trimester, it is necessary to ingest certain foods. Therefore, you require a higher iron consumption compared to the first trimester. Some excellent iron sources include:
Lean red meats that provide heme iron in a readily absorbable form. Simply ensure that you chew fully.
Vegetables with dark green leaves, tomato paste, dried apricots, pumpkin seeds, baked beans, almonds, and lentils. These supplements include non-heme iron, which can be difficult to absorb; however, adding a few drops of lemon juice may aid absorption. Nuts, grains, and legumes facilitate iron absorption.
2. Fish
Fish, which is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, is crucial for the brain development of infants. To prevent growth-related complications in the fetus, only ingest fish that has been properly prepared. Additionally, avoid fish with high mercury levels.
3. Strawberries
Are essential for maintaining the health of the mother and unborn child. Eating strawberries consistently during the second trimester of pregnancy helps strengthen heart muscles and regulate blood pressure. Strawberries are rich in numerous nutrients and vitamin B. Additionally, strawberries contain manganese, which helps to improve bone health in infants.
4. Milk and dairy products
During the second trimester of pregnancy, calcium is essential for the baby's development. Milk is an abundant source of iron. Consume a daily glass of skim milk and other dairy products, such as buttermilk and yogurt. In addition to dairy goods, you can also explore soy milk and items derived from soy.
5. Peanut Spread
The nutritional value of peanut butter can help meet the body's increased energy needs. For breakfast or a snack, combine it with whole wheat bread. However, one should avoid excessive consumption because it might lead to weight gain.
6. Dehydrated fruit
Throughout the second trimester, dried fruits should be a staple in your diet. They are a good source of iron, fiber, and calcium. Almonds, figs, apricots, dates, and raisins are among the healthiest dried fruits to consume during this time.
7. Eggs
Are rich in numerous vital nutrients, as well as minerals, proteins, and lipids. If you do not suffer from high cholesterol, you can ingest one egg every day for a safe pregnancy. When ingested in moderation, eggs can supply sufficient protein for optimal growth. Moreover, the Omega-3 fatty acids and choline in eggs promote healthy brain development.
The Following Exercises May Be Performed During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy:
1. Walking
Walking is a basic workout that can be performed by pregnant women during each trimester. By using your arms while walking, you develop upper-body strength and flexibility. The majority of birthing centers allow and encourage pregnant women to move carefully in the hours preceding delivery.
You can begin with a few minutes of walking and gradually increase the time as your comfort level increases. During the second trimester, a healthy walking regimen consists of twenty to thirty minutes per day, three to five days per week.
2. Slow jogging and running
If you were a runner or jogger before becoming pregnant, you can continue during the second trimester if you observe specific precautions. The second trimester is an ideal time to continue jogging slowly. Ensure that you are running on a flat surface and in a location where you can rest if you become fatigued.
Aim for three to four 10-minute slow jogs on a flat surface per week.
3. Swimming and aerobics in the water
Swimming, a low-impact activity, is one of the best and safest activities to perform during pregnancy. The water is calming, there is no high impact or pressure on the body, and an expectant mother can increase strength and aerobic capacity at the same time. However, emphasis should be placed on swimming workouts that build core muscles without requiring abdominal twisting.
When swimming during the second trimester of pregnancy, avoid twisting your abdomen. Additionally, evaluate your energy levels, and if you feel fatigued, exit the pool and relax.
4. Yoga
Yoga is one of the best types of exercise for pregnant women in their second trimester. It strengthens muscles, alleviates pregnancy-related aches, particularly in the lower back, and regulates blood pressure. Nevertheless, ensure that you do it under competent direction.
In addition, doing yoga throughout pregnancy is beneficial during labor.
Keep your breathing calm and even while doing yoga, and avoid poses that place too much pressure on your body or make you feel dizzy. Not all yoga poses are advised during pregnancy. Please ensure that you are appropriately directed by a professional.
Conclusion
The second trimester is a pivotal time for both mother and child. Generally, you will begin to feel better, and your pregnancy will become more apparent.
The umbilical cord continues to thicken during the second trimester as it nourishes the fetus. However, harmful substances pass through the umbilical cord to the fetus, so it is important to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other known toxins.