The end of the first trimester is a great relief to many pregnant mothers because it brings to an end the many stressful symptoms. At this stage, the bad moods will disappear, and everything including foods and flowers around you will taste great. Notably, the baby bump will still not be big, but the belly will start growing faster towards the third trimester.
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The second trimester starts at around the 14th week and lasts for about three months to the 27th week.
The second trimester is perhaps the busiest period for the unborn. By the close of the 18th week, the baby has grown significantly and is approximately the size of a chicken breast, has developed footprints, and can yawn. Three weeks later at the 21st week, the baby can take some kicks and will be about 2 pounds by close of the second trimester.
Other developments include:
By the close of the second trimester, the baby is about 12 inches long and weighs about 2lbs. The blood vessels are visible through the light skin cover, and the baby can respond to sounds. If a baby is born prematurely after the 23rd week, it can survive under intensive care.
The second trimester is the most blissful period for any pregnant mother because most symptoms of the first trimester fade away. However, even those that remain are only mild. However others may emerge as the baby continues to develop in the womb and include the following:
Remember that all of these symptoms are normal and will go away once the pregnancy is over. During the second trimester, it is not odd to get a strong sense of anxiety, frustration, forgetfulness, and irritation as the bump starts to appear.
Notably, many people also experience huge changes in their bedroom. For some, the hormonal changes may completely make it difficult to enjoy or even have sex. However, others find it enthralling because more blood has been directed to where it matters most. To address these, it is prudent to be in constant communication with your partner about pregnancy so that both parties can appreciate it is temporary.
The appetite will greatly improve during the second trimester as the body gears up to support the growing body. You can expect to gain about 1-1.5 lbs every week during the second trimester.
While the second trimester is expected to smooth and enjoyable indeed, make sure to seek medical help in case of the following symptoms;