What to expect during your second trimester of pregnancy

For many women, reaching the second trimester of pregnancy comes with a big sigh of relief. Many women say this is the most enjoyable of the pregnancy trimesters. By this time, morning sickness may begin to ease, and the risk of pregnancy loss goes down, so it’s time to tell friends and family about your big news. Knowing what to expect during your second trimester of pregnancy can help you and your baby both stay healthy during this phase. Our San Antonio obstetricians are happy to support you every step of the way.

What is the second trimester of pregnancy?

The second phase of pregnancy, called the second trimester, is defined as weeks 13 to 27. During this phase, the baby is growing rapidly, so you’ll really start to feel and look pregnant, making this an exciting time for expecting moms.

Here’s what to expect during your second trimester of pregnancy, in terms of physical changes for you and your baby.

• Your baby’s organs are developing, including the lungs, heart and brain. Little details also start to form, such as your baby’s tiny fingernails and toenails.
• Your baby will be able to hear your voice and some of what’s going on around you.
• You’ll start to feel your baby moving around a lot more, especially as he or she grows larger. You may feel kicks, as well as larger movements as your baby begins to roll around.
• As your baby grows, you may begin to see stretch marks appear on your abdomen and in other areas of your body.
• You’ll likely find yourself feeling hungrier, as your baby needs more calories to fuel rapid growth and development.
• Many women experience a second trimester “glow,” as their skin becomes clearer and hair gets shinier and thicker. For most women, morning sickness goes away, and they feel a renewed sense of energy.
• Some women start to feel mild, harmless cramping, called Braxton-Hicks contractions, during this phase. You may also start to experience pain or discomfort in your lower belly, caused by the stretching of round ligaments as your uterus expands.

What to expect during your second trimester of pregnancy when you come to our office

Our San Antonio obstetricians will want to see you several times during your second trimester of pregnancy, just so we can make sure that everything is on track. At these visits, which we’ll schedule about every four weeks, we’ll check your baby’s heartbeat and make sure that you and baby are both healthy.
What to expect during your second trimester also includes some tests to evaluate how your baby is developing.

• Regular blood and urine tests to stay on top of your overall health
• Level II anatomy ultrasound exam to detect any fetal anomalies and evaluate the baby’s anatomy, growth and development
• Glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes
• Quad screen blood test to assess the risk of certain birth defects and chromosomal conditions in the baby.
• Amniocentesis, if recommended if there are concerns about possible genetic or chromosomal abnormalities with the baby.

Our team will also begin to work with you on planning for your baby’s arrival, including recommendations for prenatal classes and making a hospital birth plan.
Get the support and care you need during all three pregnancy trimesters

Our San Antonio obstetricians are here to support you through every phase of pregnancy. By knowing what to expect during your second trimester, you’ll be better prepared to partner with your care team to keep yourself and your baby healthy. Contact us any time with your questions and concerns. We are here for you.