Second Trimester of Pregnancy

Changes in Your Body

Congratulations! If you've made it to your second trimester you can rest easier knowing your baby is less at risk for miscarriage or other complications associated with early pregnancy. During your second trimester your baby is diligently working on growing fast and strong. Your doctor may recommend you eat at least 300 extra calories each day during your second and third trimester of pregnancy so you have enough energy and nutrients to nourish your baby.

Up until this point in your pregnancy you probably have not realized much in the way of physical symptoms. During your second trimester of pregnancy, your body will start undergoing many amazing changes! Your breast will begin to swell, which most women delight in. They may be less tender than they were during your first trimester, but be sure to find and wear a supportive bra from now through the end of your pregnancy.

You will notice as your pregnancy continues your abdomen will start to grow. Every woman grows differently. Some women notice their abdomens start to "pop" much faster than others. Typically most women will start looking "pregnant" after they are about 5 months along in their pregnancy or around pregnancy week 20.

What to Expect from Your Doctor and Baby

Around pregnancy week 20 many healthcare providers perform a routine ultrasound to verify your baby's gestational age and health. During this visit you will have the opportunity to find out the sex of your baby (if your baby is cooperative!). Many first time parents are surprised to learn their baby is in a position that makes it difficult to determine the gender.

Still others decide to wait until they deliver to find out what the sex of their baby is. This can add to the excitement of planning for your pregnancy. Many women will begin thinking about starting their newborn baby's nursery during their second trimester. If you are not sure of the sex of your baby, you can always go with many gender neutral colors, including limes, yellows, beige, creams and other warm and cozy colors.

You will definitely feel much better during your second trimester than during any other time of your pregnancy. Your body will start growing, but will not be large enough to prevent you from enjoying physical activity. You should in fact, try to enjoy some exercise if you can during your pregnancy, as long as your doctor or healthcare provider gives you the green light.

You will also find your appetite increases during the second trimester. Don't fall into the trap of believing you have to literally eat for two though! Remember, 300 extra calories is not a lot of extra calories to eat during pregnancy. For most women, a half a bagel with some peanut butter does the trick.

If you find you feel hungry consistently throughout the day, it may help to eat several mini meals instead of three square meals per day during your pregnancy. This can also provide you with extra energy during your pregnancy.

Remember, many women and doctors alike refer to the second trimester of pregnancy as the "honeymoon" stage of pregnancy. This is a time to enjoy life as best you can. You may even find your sex drive increased during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Is Sex Safe During Pregnancy?

Most women can safely enjoy sex throughout their pregnancy. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider. It may help to bring your partner if he is concerned he will “harm” the baby during intercourse. Your doctor in most cases can easily allay such fears.

Have fun with your newly rounded figure and blossoming body. There are occasions, including a high risk pregnancy however, when sex may not be safe. Your doctor or healthcare provider will confirm for you whether you can safely enjoy this activity during pregnancy. Remember there are many other ways to enjoy intimacy with your partner during your second trimester of pregnancy.

Many partners enjoy leisurely strolls through the park or quiet time spent holding hands. Enjoy this time, because once you deliver your newborn baby, you will find you have less time than ever for "quiet" time!