First Trimester Pregnancy - What's happening with you and your baby

Second Trimester Pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy occurs in weeks 13 through 28. This trimester is the most physically enjoyable for most women. In the fourth month, you will feel the baby move. Some women don't feel the baby move until the fifth month, but when your feel your first flutter, it is sure to be an event you won't soon forget.

Many women have an ultrasound in the fifth month of pregnancy. At this time, the radiologist may be able to tell you if you are having a boy or a girl? At the end of this month your baby is approximately ten inches long and weighs a pound.

Once you've hit your sixth month you will find that your baby has become much more active... rolling from side to side and turning upside down and back. He will even begin to suck his thumb! At the end of this month, your baby is approximately 12 inches long and weights about a pound and a half. (It will probably feel like more than that though)

So, what's going on with your body during the second trimester? You may experience the following changes.

Fetal movement

You may be able to feel the movement of the fetus for the very fist time. This is called quickening and is usually felt by the end of the 5th month. However, variations are normal. Actual movement and kicking is normally felt by the end of the 7th month.

Skin Changes, Stretch Marks and Increasing Belly Size.

Skin color may change slightly due to pregnancy hormones. Due to the stretching of the skin some women may develop stretch marks. Stretch marks occur in about half of all pregnancies.

Here are some tips for minimizing stretch marks:

* keep your weight gain steady and under control
* promote elasticity by sticking to a nutritious diet
* drink plenty of fluids
* use a stretch mark cream or a prevention cream

Frequent Urination

You may find that frequent urination has decreased as the uterus grows out of the pelvic cavity, thus relieving pressure on the bladder. (Finally, some relief)

Abdominal and Lower Back Pain

You might feel some pain your abdomen and groin area or thighs due to an expanding uterus and abdomen. You may also feel some lower back pain due to your increasing pregnancy weight. Lying down, resting, or applying heat can help ease these aches and pains.

Nose and Gum Bleeds

You may experience some nose and gum bleeds due to an increased amount of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. You may also develop sinus congestions and a postnasal drip. This can lead to nighttime coughing or gagging. Remember, do not use medication or medicated nasal sprays before talking to your practitioner.

Vaginal Discharge

You may notice a white-colored vaginal discharge. This is called leukorrhea and is very normal. However, a colored or bloody discharge may signal complications and should be checked out immediately.

Trouble Sleeping

Many women complain of difficulty sleeping during the second trimester of pregnancy. Here are some quick tips to getting a good night's rest:

- Try not to nap too much in the daytime
- Exercise during the day and you will feel more tired at night and get to sleep quicker. Just be sure not to exercise to close to bedtime because it might get you hyped up to where its harder to sleep.
- Develop a consistent bedtime routine.
- Avoid caffeine. It isn't good for your baby or your ability to get to sleep.
- Don't go to bed until you're tired