Each and every stages of pregnancy is very important and enjoyable in one or the other way. Second trimester of pregnancy duration is from 14 weeks to 27 weeks. During this period you can notice many changes in your body both externally as well as internally. Your baby’s growth and development will be very fast and your belly grows more compare to the first trimester.
Also Read:- A Perfect Diet Plan For The Second Trimester Of Pregnancy!
This article is going to cover the following objects:
- Physical changes
- Growth of belly and breast
- Changes in your skin
- Dental problems
- Dizziness
- Leg pain
- Discharge in vagina
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Nasal problems
- Emotional changes
- How can you stay healthy during the second trimester?
- The second trimester: what to expect?
Let us come to know some physical and emotional changes in your body during second trimester:
Physical changes
Growth Of Belly And Breast
As your baby grows your uterus start to expand to create space for your little one. Naturally your abdomen size also increases. You can even notice the change in your breast size. Your body prepares your breast for breast feeding by enlarging the milk gland and deposition of fat. You can also find the darkening of skin around the nipples.
Changes In Your Skin
During the pregnancy period, there are a lot of hormonal changes happening in your body. These changes will trigger the production of skin colouring pigment known as melanin. This will result in a brown patch on your face, abdomen or other parts of the body including breasts, thighs etc. some person may have dry and itchy skin. If you are suffering from dryness or itching you can use moisturising cream. All these changes are temporary and will fade away after your delivery.
Dental Problems
Dental care is very important during your pregnancy period. At this time the chances of tooth loss and tooth decay are more compare to your normal days. This is because of the hormonal changes in the pregnancy that affect your bones and ligaments in your mouth. Your gums will become more sensitive and if you use hard brush your gums may start to bleed. Effective remedy for this problem is to rinse your mouth with salt water. If the condition is become more severe like swelling or lose of teeth, you have to consult a dentist.
Dizziness
Dizziness is also one of the common problems that can happen in this period. Cause of dizziness is due to the changes in blood circulation. Hydrate yourself by drinking enough fluid is the best solution for this. If you have dizziness, you should avoid standing in the same position for a long time. Get enough sleep and rest.
Leg Pain
Leg pain is another common problem of pregnant woman. You might have felt more pain during the night time compare to the day time. It may be because of the pressure applied by your little one to your blood vessels and nerves that go to your legs. To get rid of leg pain you can go for walking or engage in some physical activities. Hot water bath, massage your legs with oil or balm, stretch your leg muscles etc before going to bed will help you to get relief from leg pain.
Discharge In Vagina
During your pregnancy period, white sticky or clear vaginal discharge is normal and you no need to worry about it. But if you notice a colour change or odour change of the discharge with itching and discomfort you have to consult your doctor. It may be an indication of vaginal infection.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
If you have burning sensation while urinating or you have seen blood in your urine, it may be the symptom of urinary tract infection. The risk of UTI is more during your second trimester of pregnancy. When you find any irritation or other noticeable changes in your urine, you should get treatment for that.
Nasal Problems
Most of the women suffer from nasal problems during their pregnancy time. It is because of the increase in hormonal levels produces more blood in the body and it will cause the mucous membrane to swell and bleed. You may also feel stuffiness in your nose. Use of saline drops is the best solution for this problem. You can also apply a small quantity of petroleum jelly around the nostrils which will moisturise the skin and you will get relief.
Emotional Changes
Some women will better when they enter into the second trimester. The intensity of morning sickness and vomiting sensation will decrease and they may become more energetic compare to their first trimester. Most of the women gain more weight during this trimester and will not have much mood swings.
How Can You Stay Healthy During The Second Trimester?
When you are healthy, surely your baby also will be healthy. During the second trimester you should concentrate more on your diet and exercises. Doctors recommend eating food rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Food items rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin D are essential for the growth of healthy bones and strong teeth of your baby. Other main nutrient is omega 3 which is essential for the brain development of your baby. You can include carrots, green leafy vegetables, dry fruits, sprouted grams, milk products etc. Try to avoid raw meat, raw eggs, unpasteurised products, caffeine, large sea foods such as shark, swordfish etc.
Exercise is as important as nutritious food which can keep you active and healthy throughout your pregnancy. Walking, yoga, meditation, swimming etc can calm your mind and prepare your body for giving birth to a healthy baby.
The Second Trimester : What To Expect?
In the second trimester your doctor will focus on the heart beat, defect in birth and other health related problems of your baby. During this time you may probably have to go for an ultrasound scan and blood test. Doctor also will measure your uterus, your weight, blood pressure etc. as it is the most important time in your pregnancy period. They can also find out the sex of your baby during your ultrasound.
Each and every day of pregnancy is very special and enjoyable. Don’t think about the problems that you have to face in this period. Just make every moment special and be happy.