The second trimester, spanning weeks 13 to 28, is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. For many people, early discomforts like nausea and fatigue begin to fade, and energy levels start to rise. But what exactly happens during this middle stretch of pregnancy? At Tidewater Physicians for Women in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA, we guide our patients through each stage of pregnancy with personalized, expert care. Here’s what you can expect during the second trimester.
Physical and Emotional Changes: What’s Normal?
As your baby continues to grow, your body adapts in remarkable ways. Here are some common changes and symptoms during the second trimester:
- Growing belly and weight gain: As your uterus expands, you’ll start to show more noticeably. Most people gain 1 to 2 pounds per week during this stage.
- Breast changes: Your breasts may continue to grow, and you might notice darkening areolas or the appearance of stretch marks.
- Increased energy: Many women feel more energetic and less nauseous during the second trimester.
- Skin changes: Dark patches (melasma), a dark line on your abdomen (linea nigra), and pregnancy “glow” are common.
- Round ligament pain: As your uterus grows, you may experience sharp or aching pain on the sides of your belly.
- Nasal congestion or nosebleeds: Increased blood flow and hormonal shifts can cause nasal swelling.
- Backaches and leg cramps: Your growing belly changes your posture, which can put stress on your back and legs.
Key Milestones and Tests
Your second trimester includes some important screenings and exciting moments:
- Anatomy ultrasound (typically between 18–22 weeks): This detailed scan checks your baby’s organs, limbs, and development—and often reveals the sex, if you choose to know.
- Gestational diabetes screening (around 24–28 weeks): This glucose test evaluates how your body handles sugar.
- Quad screen or genetic testing (if not done earlier): Blood tests may assess your baby’s risk for certain conditions.
- Fetal movement: You may start to feel fluttering movements, often called “quickening,” between 16 and 25 weeks.
How to Support Your Health
Staying healthy in the second trimester involves a balance of good habits and consistent prenatal care:
- Keep all prenatal appointments to monitor your health and your baby’s development.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, protein, calcium, and iron.
- Stay hydrated, especially as your blood volume increases.
- Exercise regularly, unless your provider advises otherwise. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are often recommended.
- Sleep on your side to improve circulation, especially after 20 weeks.
- Wear supportive shoes and consider a belly band for back support as your body changes.
When to Call Your Provider
Although many second trimester symptoms are normal, some require medical attention. Contact your OB/GYN if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
- Painful urination or signs of a urinary tract infection
- Fever over 100.4°F
- Decreased fetal movement after you’ve started feeling regular kicks
Partnering With You Through Every Trimester
At Tidewater Physicians for Women, we’re committed to helping you feel confident and supported throughout your pregnancy. If you have questions or concerns during your second trimester, we’re here to help.
Learn more or schedule your prenatal visit with one of our providers at Tidewater Physicians for Women in Virginia Beach or Norfolk, VA
Further Reading:
What to Expect – The Second Trimester of Pregnancy
