Advice for pregnant women (2nd trimester). Fetal development: second trimester of pregnancy From what month does the second trimester of pregnancy begin?

05.07.2024

The second trimester of pregnancy is called the “golden time”, since toxicosis has already passed, and the belly has become rounded, but still small. This period begins from the 13th week and is distinguished by the fact that a pregnant woman can do yoga, walk to her heart's content in the fresh air, without suffering from headaches and nausea.

At this time, experts recommend starting think about a bandage, as the figure of the expectant mother begins to gradually become rounder and her breasts begin to enlarge. It is best to start wearing a bandage from the 20th week, this way you will protect yourself from stretch marks and miscarriage.

The second trimester in fetal development is considered one of the most important, since during this period internal organs are laid and the placenta is formed.

Nutritional features of the expectant mother in the second trimester of pregnancy

This period is different in that the uterus increases in size, so overeating can lead to unpleasant sensations. Experts recommend switching to fractional meals, 5-6 times a day and in small portions.

Nutrition in the second trimester has the following features:

How much fluid should you drink?

Doctors say that lack of fluid in the pregnant woman's body can lead to serious consequences. So, problems with metabolism may arise or anemia may occur. Therefore, pregnant women should especially carefully monitor their water balance.

How does it feel in the second trimester?

The expectant mother's mood during this period is stable, and the level of anxiety drops significantly. This is explained by the fact that by this time the woman is gradually getting used to the status of a future mother.

Pregnant women in the second trimester have a very difficult time withstanding sudden changes in temperature and physical activity. Therefore, the pregnant woman should be provided maximum comfortable conditions. In the middle of the second trimester, the woman feels the first movements.

How correctly, by this period, toxicosis has already passed, and a strong appetite may come to replace it. But each of these processes occurs individually, so some mothers suffer from toxicosis, even while in the second trimester.

Regarding discharge at the beginning of the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, then they are no different from the discharge in the previous trimester. But closer to the middle of the trimester they begin to increase. Since hormonal changes in the female body continue during this period, the discharge becomes white with an indistinct sour odor.

Pain in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy

Often, during this period pain occurs in the lower back and pelvis. This is explained by the fact that the uterus gradually begins to enlarge. But abdominal pain is not typical for the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, if you experience abdominal pain, you should immediately consult a doctor, as there is a very high risk of miscarriage.

The second trimester of pregnancy is characterized by the appearance of heartburn, since during the growth of the uterus the stomach is compressed, so the digestion process is disrupted. To relieve heartburn, you should eat fiber or prunes, baked apples or dried apricots.

During this period there may also appear cramps in the feet and calves. This may indicate problems with mineral metabolism. They can lead to congestion in the legs.

Throughout pregnancy, you should lead an active lifestyle, monitor your diet, and also get periodic massage. This is the only way to ensure the good health of the expectant mother.

Features of fetal development in the second trimester of pregnancy

Starting from the 13th week, the fetus begins to grow and change. So, The 4th month of pregnancy is characterized by the following changes:

The fifth month of pregnancy has the following features:

the fetus begins to move more and more;
the endocrine system functions at full capacity;
The baby's skin is covered with a special lubricant.

In the sixth month of pregnancy, the following changes are observed:

Fetal sleep duration is 16–20 hours;
the lung tissue is still not open, but the baby is trying to breathe;
brain mass is actively growing;
The higher parts of the cerebral cortex develop.

What tests and examinations are needed in the second trimester of pregnancy?

In the second trimester of pregnancy, the following tests are prescribed:

blood and urine tests;
antibody test;
hormone tests.

Ultrasound and hormone analysis – this is an integral part of the second prenatal screening, which helps to determine the presence of deviations in the development of the baby, as well as various defects.

Often, perinatal screening is prescribed at 16–18 weeks of pregnancy. If the results show the presence of any abnormalities, the woman will have to undergo a detailed examination by a geneticist. The examination involves tests such as chorionic villus sampling or medical history, which help determine the presence of chromosomal abnormalities.

Main hazards and risks of the period

In the second trimester, the following situations may occur:

Premature termination of pregnancy - abortion or premature birth. If a baby is born before 22 weeks, he will most likely not be viable, but after that the chances of survival increase.
Development of cervical pathologies. Often such pathologies are expressed in the development of isthmic-cervical insufficiency. This disease increases the risk of miscarriage. The optimal time to eliminate this pathology is 18-22 weeks.
The occurrence of gestosis, which is accompanied by high blood pressure, as well as edema. The first signs of this disease appear after 20 weeks.
Intrauterine infection of the fetus is possible due to the fact that the mother’s body may contain pathogenic bacteria, these could even be bacteria of sexually transmitted diseases.

There are critical periods during each trimester. He considers it most dangerous period from 18 to 22 weeks. This is explained by the fact that during this period pathologies associated with the cervix, as well as defects in the placement of the placenta, may appear.

The risk of miscarriage increases due to the fact that during this period the growth of the uterus increases significantly, and this can lead to a number of complications.

The second trimester is a favorable period in pregnancy, however, do not forget to adhere to the basic advice of doctors. They are:

Is sex possible during this period?

Doctors say that if pregnancy proceeds normally and there are no contraindications, then sex in the second trimester is not only possible, but also necessary. In the middle of the trimester, women experience a “surge” of sexual energy; doctors explain this by the fact that the pelvic organs begin to intensively fill with blood.

The occurrence of colds and other ailments

All medications should be taken only after the approval of a doctor. Please note that most drugs are contraindicated in pregnant women, as they may have a negative effect on the fetus.

During the period from February to March, when flu epidemics begin, doctors recommend that she visit public places and avoid hypothermia.

What are the signs of a frozen pregnancy during this period?

The worst thing that can happen in the second trimester is the fading of pregnancy, which implies the cessation of embryo development and, as a result, death. The most dangerous period in this regard is considered to be the period between 16–18 weeks. Signs of a frozen pregnancy are:

What is prohibited to do in the second trimester?

smoking and drinking alcohol;
wear tight and uncomfortable clothes;
lift weights;
steam in a sauna for more than 15 minutes;
independently prescribe and take medications.

Pregnancy has begun. For most women, this is a joyful event and two welcome stripes on a quick test are just the beginning of a complex, responsible and interesting path in life. There are 9 months of pleasant anticipation, worries, fears and joys ahead. Getting pregnant, carrying and giving birth to a healthy child is the main goal of any normal woman. For the convenience of doctors and expectant mothers, the entire calendar period, consisting of 9 months, is divided into trimesters of pregnancy. Conventionally, each trimester is three months of pregnancy.

Dates of pregnancy

A trimester lasts a certain number of weeks. Gynecologists usually calculate the period in obstetric weeks, which begin their counting from the first day of the last menstruation. Any table or calendar for pregnant women is built taking into account the obstetric gestational age. The embryonic period, conception itself, usually occurs 2 weeks later, but not everyone knows the exact date.

The obstetric period is 280 days or 40 weeks, which is equal to 10 obstetric months, consisting of 28 days. The division into trimesters of pregnancy is also convenient in monitoring the pregnant woman and the development of the fetus. To determine the expected date of birth, they also use calculations from the last menstruation. In the future, the period is clarified using ultrasound and the characteristics of fetal development.

How many weeks are there in each trimester? When does one end and the next one begin? All these questions are of interest to any pregnant woman, especially if this is the first time such a condition has occurred for a woman.

Let's take a closer look at each of these periods. What do they carry and what can mother and future baby expect in each of them?

First trimester

It brings the woman the good news of her pregnancy. It is extremely important. It is at this time that many dangers and threats await the mother and the unborn child. Fertilization occurs, the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus, the laying and formation of all vital systems.

Unpleasant events may occur at any of these stages. The most dangerous periods for miscarriages are the time of implantation of the fertilized egg at 3–4 weeks and hormonal changes at 8–12 weeks. A woman’s breasts swell, many begin to experience toxicosis (early gestosis), mood changes, and increased emotionality.

The embryo develops rapidly. The formation of the nervous system begins, and at 4–5 weeks a small heart is already beating. The first trimester ends at the 12th week, by which time the fetus has:

Spine.
Hemispheres of the brain.
The organs of the endocrine system (and are already working hard).
Facial features are visible and the first movements appear.
The gender of the unborn baby has been determined.
Marigolds grow on the fingers.
The beginnings of teeth appear.

During the first three-month period, you need to carefully monitor your condition, especially during dangerous periods. For any pain, bleeding, or cramps in the lower abdomen, you should immediately seek medical help. Naturally, you must already be registered with the antenatal clinic.

Sex during this period should be gentle and delicate, especially if a woman is at risk of miscarriage. But you shouldn’t leave your man without attention either. How much sex to have is up to each couple to decide for themselves. Mutual care and love are needed. Pregnancy is not a pathology, but a physiological process.

Second trimester

The second trimester of pregnancy begins at week 13 and ends at week 27. This is the most beneficial time for most pregnant women. Early toxicosis and the most dangerous periods are over, the stomach is still small. The expectant mother has a lot of energy and strength for further successful pregnancy. The second trimester of pregnancy changes a woman, she blossoms, her gait changes, her tummy begins to grow.

When the center of gravity changes, the load on the spine increases, and therefore back pain is possible. The enlarged uterus begins to displace other organs located in the abdominal cavity. Sometimes heartburn appears at this time, and due to the size of the uterus, urination becomes more frequent (it puts pressure on the bladder). Constipation is common. But this is all temporary: changes in the body associated with pregnancy can and should be tolerated.

Sex during this period is the most wonderful. Toxicosis and the threat of miscarriages do not interfere, you can safely practice any type of sex, this will strengthen and bring the spouses closer and will not bring any harm, but only benefit, if there are no special contraindications for sex due to the health of the expectant mother. Sex is an additional opportunity to show feelings for each other during this important period. And you don’t have to worry about unwanted pregnancy.

The second trimester of pregnancy is characterized by increased growth and development of all fetal systems. During this period, the mother feels the first movements of her child. The baby's 2nd trimester of pregnancy was spent on the formation of the excretory system, the functioning of the kidneys, intestines, and the functioning of the endocrine system. The cerebral cortex is actively forming, intellect and basic sense organs are emerging.

The placenta is already well developed and meets all physiological requirements. But there is one important point: if it is positioned incorrectly, there is a danger of detachment. During this period, it is important to undergo genetic screening, especially for women with risks of a pathological pregnancy. If you do not neglect this, the second trimester of pregnancy will leave only pleasant impressions.

What kind of baby does the second trimester of pregnancy end? He already weighs approximately 1.2 kg. Its height (or rather, length) is about 35 cm. The gender can be clearly determined by ultrasound.

Third trimester

The third trimester begins at week 28 and lasts until birth. Only nature knows how many weeks a particular woman has for this period. At this time, the tummy grows significantly due to the growth of the fetus and the increase in amniotic fluid.

The baby hears you, his hair grows, his movements become more rare, he takes a constant position and is gradually preparing to go out into the world. The body is covered with lubricant for successful movement in the birth canal. All organs and systems are formed, he breathes, sleeps and wakes, feels taste.

For a woman, the third period is not easy, it is harder for her to walk, it is uncomfortable to sleep, fatigue and shortness of breath quickly set in. But the joy of the upcoming birth and patient anticipation give strength at the finish line. During this period, there are dangers of late toxicosis, edema, the appearance of protein in the urine, rapid weight gain due to pathological edema, and high blood pressure. You need to take good care of yourself to avoid further problems. Weigh-ins and follow-up visits to the doctor are required.

Sex during this period should not be too active and extreme. But you shouldn’t give it up either. Some couples, if there is a threat of post-term pregnancy, are recommended to actively engage in sex in order to stimulate labor. At the end of the third trimester, the woman will receive the desired result - a long-awaited child.

The second trimester of pregnancy is the most touching and carefree period of waiting for a child.

At this time, you have already forgotten about toxicosis, your tummy is already rounded, but at the same time it does not restrict your movements, and most importantly, it is during this period that you will be able to feel the kicks and movement of your baby for the first time.

But you should be prepared for new troubles, such as heartburn or anemia. It's time to find out what else to expect from the second trimester and how your baby is developing.

Signs of pregnancy in the 2nd trimester

The 2nd trimester of pregnancy is 13-28 weeks. And if at the beginning of the period there is no need to talk about obvious external changes, then by the 20th week your tummy will openly indicate your interesting position.

There are other signs that indicate pregnancy:

External signs. An increase in waist circumference, a gradual expansion of the pelvic bone, an increase in fat in the lower abdomen, a significant increase in the chest area - all these external signs together indicate your pregnancy;
Discharge. During this period, you may experience yellowish discharge from the chest, but do not rush to panic - this is a normal physiological process. And the discharge is something like colostrum. But you’ve probably already forgotten about other discharge, menstruation. During pregnancy, there is no menstrual flow;
Fetal movement. Your first tactile acquaintance with your baby takes place in the second trimester; around the 20th week, you will specifically feel your belly: first with slightly noticeable movements or tickles, and then with increasingly demanding pushes (also read the current article How many weeks does a baby start to move? >>>);
Well-being. The previous drowsiness and regularity are replaced by an increase in energy and an increase in pulse and blood pressure. If you still doubt whether you are pregnant, measure your pulse: in pregnant women, the pulse is not the standard 60 beats, but 80-90. The pressure is also higher, but not as noticeable: an additional 10-15 mm Hg. column.

It may seem funny to you that at 14 weeks we are talking about signs of pregnancy, but there are cases when women find out about their interesting situation at a later date, especially during breastfeeding, when the menstrual cycle has not yet resumed.

Second trimester of pregnancy: belly

The second trimester of pregnancy is a time of active growth not only for your baby, but also for your tummy.

By the end of the 28th week, the fundus of the uterus will already be 2 cm above your navel, and your waist circumference will be twice as large as the initial one;
If you have a fragile physique, then the growth of your tummy will become noticeable at the beginning of the 2nd trimester;
By the end of the sixth month, a dark stripe may appear in the middle of the abdomen. Don’t be alarmed, this is the influence of hormones, no measures need to be taken, the pigmentation will go away on its own, but only in the postpartum period;
In the second trimester of pregnancy, the belly may even become covered with fluff; this phenomenon is not entirely aesthetic, but not critical and will also go away on its own;
Since the skin on your abdomen is constantly stretched, you may feel a slight itch and notice peeling and stretch marks. Physiologically, this phenomenon can be explained as follows: the skin does not keep up with the rapid growth of the abdomen, and the lack of vitamins also affects it, but this process should not be ignored.

Water massage, moisturizing oils and lotions, supportive bandages and quality clothing will come to the rescue: no synthetics, only natural fabrics and loose fits. In addition, it will be easier for you to decide what can and should be done about stretch marks after reading the article Stretch marks during pregnancy >>>.

The stomach should be protected not only during wakefulness, but also during sleep. Forget about your favorite position of resting on your stomach, now you can sleep either on your back or on your side.

Pain in the second trimester of pregnancy

All unpleasant sensations during pregnancy can be divided into physiological and pathological. If you just need to get used to the former, the latter signal certain deviations. It's time for you to learn to understand your body.

Physiological pain

Acceptable pain includes discomfort in the lower abdomen or back after walking or staying in one position for a long time.

During pregnancy, not only your mood and the size of your belly changes, but even your gait. During this period, the pelvic bones gradually expand and become softer, and the joints? respectively? weaker, hence the pain when tired;
The location of pain in the second trimester of pregnancy is the lower abdomen, namely the place where the uterus is supported. Short-term sensations that go away on their own are the norm;
The cause of painful sensations may also be banal bloating or flatulence, which are not alien to pregnant women (read the article on the topic Bloating during pregnancy >>>);
You may also feel pain in the sacral area or lower back: during this period, the load on the spine is increased, the center of gravity is shifting, in addition, the increasing size of the uterus and its contents puts pressure on all internal organs.

Pathological pain

All painful sensations that do not go away, but only intensify over time, are pathological in nature.

Pain in the lower abdomen that lasts more than 2 minutes and is systematically repeated up to 10 times a day is a signal of increased uterine tone, which is fraught with the threat of miscarriage. Spasms that accompany uterine contractions can lead to oxygen starvation of the fetus, the development of intrauterine anomalies and even termination of pregnancy;
Heartburn, which you can experience as early as the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, is both a physiological and pathological phenomenon. It appears due to weakening of the muscle tone of the gastrointestinal tract under the influence of the hormone progesterone and the release of gastric juice into the esophagus, but the intensity of the unpleasant sensations may depend on what you eat and how (more about heartburn during pregnancy >>>);

With proper nutrition in small portions, heartburn can be minimized, in addition, you can take acceptable medications, such as Rennie or Galstena, the main thing is to study the instructions with contraindications (read the article Rennie during pregnancy >>>). In addition, be sure to pay attention to our book on proper nutrition: Secrets of proper nutrition for an expectant mother >>>

Headaches and dizziness can signal you about the development of anemia and low blood pressure. Monitor these indicators in order to take the necessary measures in time;
But pain and heaviness in the legs can be caused by swelling and venous insufficiency. Drink clean, still water, eat less salt and preservatives, and get plenty of rest during the day. Please note that excessive swelling may be caused by kidney disease, so additional tests should not be avoided;
Cramps that may bother you in the 2nd trimester directly indicate vitamin starvation. Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium in any form will help you forget about unpleasant numbness in your limbs. Also study the article on the topic: Hands and feet go numb during pregnancy >>>;
Local pain in the side with discharge can signal you about inflammatory processes. Do not forget to tell your doctor about this phenomenon (current article on the topic: Right side hurts during pregnancy >>>).

Do not ignore any unpleasant sensations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because in most cases pain can be relieved in a fairly simple way.

Vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy

The main vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy are calcium, iodine, iron, and B vitamins. Let's take a closer look at how and what they affect and what other beneficial substances both mother and baby need:

Vitamins for children

In the second trimester, the baby’s brain is actively developing, this will be facilitated by magnesium, phosphorus, and iodine;
For the development of the skeletal system, as well as the formation of teeth, calcium and vitamin D are needed;
The nervous system of a growing child needs iodine, folic acid, phosphorus and magnesium;
Vitamin A is also necessary during this period; it is responsible for genetic processes and the development of visual organs;
Protein is essential in the 2nd trimester, but carbohydrates will need to be kept to a minimum.

Vitamins for mom

Your permanent helpers - calcium and iron are again in the lead. But you shouldn’t give up other vitamins either:

The baby needs calcium, but he takes it from your body, so if you don’t want to be left without teeth, replenish calcium reserves on time;
Potassium is extremely necessary in this period; it will help the cardiovascular system cope with the additional load, while at the same time reducing the risk of premature birth;
Sodium is essential for swelling;
Magnesium will help you cope with stress and forget about cramps;
Vitamin C is needed by your immune system and also for better absorption of calcium;
Both your skin and hair need vitamin E. In addition, it is responsible for the supply of oxygen to your baby.

Second trimester of pregnancy: discharge

It is an axiom that there should be no regular menstrual flow in the second trimester. But there may be some discharge. The main thing is to understand what is normal and what is a cause for concern:

White, transparent discharge without odor and accompanying itching or burning is the norm. But there is one caveat: heavy discharge when changing several pads a day can be a sign of leakage of amniotic fluid;
Curd discharge in the second trimester of pregnancy with a clear milky smell will indicate to you the development of thrush. Read the article Thrush during pregnancy >>>;
An unpleasant odor and itching of even clear discharge is a reason to get tested for bacterial infection. This may also be a sign of cervical erosion;
Yellow discharge with pus is an inflammatory process;
Brown or bloody discharge is especially dangerous and can be a signal of miscarriage (read the article on the topic: Brown discharge during pregnancy >>>).

Colds - second trimester of pregnancy

A cold in itself is an undesirable phenomenon, especially during pregnancy. If you assess the level of risk, then a cold in the second trimester of pregnancy is no longer as dangerous as before the 14th week, since your baby is already actively protected by the placenta, but your general malaise cannot but be felt by the child.

The main problem is a serious restriction in taking medications. If you can bring down the temperature with paracetamol, then most antibiotics will have to be abandoned;
A cold during pregnancy can cause disruption of oxygen exchange between you and your baby, and this is a threat of oxygen starvation and the development of fetal hypoxia. In addition, the disease during this period can cause premature birth and the birth of a small child. A cold is also unsafe for the baby’s nervous system, which is just developing;
A cold at week 13 is a big risk for the development of the baby’s thyroid gland;
At 16-17 weeks, the baby’s bone marrow is actively developing, and a cold during this period can negatively affect this process;
If you are expecting the birth of a girl, then take care of your health at 19-20 weeks, it is at this time that the ovaries are actively developing, and the disease can provoke developmental deviations and problems in the functioning of the reproductive system in the future;
A runny nose does not always indicate a cold; it can be of an allergic nature or a so-called hormonal runny nose, characteristic of your situation. Treatment directly depends on the causes of a runny nose. Read more about this in the article Runny nose during pregnancy >>>.

Please note that your body temperature during pregnancy in the second trimester may be about 37 degrees, and in the absence of an accompanying runny nose or cough, this will be normal.

Sex in the second trimester of pregnancy

You can calm down yourself and please your sexual partner: doctors not only do not prohibit, but even recommend sex in the second trimester of pregnancy. Sexual intercourse does not pose any threat to the baby, since it is reliably protected by the placenta. The positive emotions that you experience are only beneficial for the child; in addition, blood circulation in the uterus improves, which also has a good effect on the development of your baby.

The only contraindications to sex are the threat of miscarriage and high uterine tone.

The requirements for how to behave in the second trimester of pregnancy during sex are simple: attention to your partner, choosing a position that is comfortable for you, and hygiene.

Tone in the second trimester

Uterine tone in the second trimester of pregnancy is an extremely undesirable phenomenon that can provoke a miscarriage. You may suspect that something is wrong with your uterus if you experience mini contractions from muscle contractions or a stiff feeling in your lower abdomen. There are several reasons that tone your uterus:

Carrying and lifting heavy objects;
Nervous breakdowns and stress;
A decrease in progesterone levels, which affects the relaxation of the uterine muscles;
Ultrasound examination and breast massage;
Myomas and other gynecological abnormalities.

Know! Even if you are diagnosed with uterine tone, it is easily treatable: rest and antispasmodics.

Ultrasound – second trimester of pregnancy

An ultrasound scan in the second trimester of pregnancy falls at 20-24 weeks. This is a very important examination, as it will answer various questions about the development and due date of the baby.

Measurements and calculations. The first thing the specialist will do during the second ultrasound is measure the body and length of the limbs and calculate the approximate weight of the fetus. Then the baby’s face and mouth are examined to refute genetic diseases, measurements of internal organs are taken and compared with standard sizes. Depending on what you see and read, the specialist will indicate the approximate date of birth;
Determination of gender. During the second ultrasound, you can find out the sex of your baby, unless he is too shy and does not close himself off from prying eyes;
Condition of the placenta. Size, structure, thickness - all this is important for the protective barrier that the placenta is for your baby. For week 20, the ideal thickness is 20 mm;
Condition of amniotic fluid. Oligohydramnios, normal or polyhydramnios – this will be the doctor’s verdict. In addition, they will tell you about the general condition of the waters;
Presence of pathologies. At the 20th week of pregnancy, a specialist will already be able to discern pathological abnormalities and assess their scale. The child is mobile, it is possible to examine him from different angles, but do not despair in the event of a pathological diagnosis. A complete picture can only be obtained by conducting additional screening tests;
Pulse measurement. One of the most touching moments of an ultrasound is that you will hear your baby’s heart beating; a heartbeat of over 110 to 180 beats is considered normal. By the way, you can also listen to your heartbeat through your tummy with a stethoscope;
Umbilical cord. During an ultrasound, the umbilical cord also comes into view. The norm is three arteries. In addition, the umbilical cord should not wrap around the baby’s neck or other organs;
Uterus. The condition and length of the organ are studied, at this stage - at least 30 cm, the uterine os must be tightly closed.

Don’t forget to ask the specialist for a photo of the baby; the outlines are already clearly visible.

In addition to the ultrasound, you will be asked to undergo other tests. Tests in the second trimester of pregnancy:

General blood and urine analysis;
Glucose tolerance test, when blood is donated in a normal state and after drinking sweetened water;
Second screening for congenital pathologies.

Fetal development in the second trimester

It’s simply amazing what happens in the second trimester of pregnancy with your baby: he begins to actively move, hear, smile and develop as a person.

During the 4th month of intrauterine development, the baby’s muscular system is formed, milk teeth are formed, and the first hair appears on the head. Interestingly, at this time the skin is still very thin and blood vessels are clearly visible through it. Your baby already knows how to empty his bladder and he does it every 45 minutes. By the end of the 16th week, the baby weighs about 130 grams and his height reaches 15 cm;
The 5th month significantly changes the appearance of the baby. There are already eyebrows and eyelashes, but while they are colorless, there are even fingerprints. The baby's entire skin is covered with a white lubricant that protects against water. The pancreas and intestines are already working. At the end of the 5th month, the baby weighs more than 300 grams, and his height is about 20 cm;
The 6th month is a period of active communication between mother and baby. The child moves, pushes, calms down if dad puts his hand on him, hears voices and music. The baby is actively gaining weight and by the end of the 2nd trimester weighs about 900 grams with a height of 30 cm. All his organs are working except the lungs.

When analyzing the second trimester of pregnancy: the do's and don'ts, you need to set your priorities right. Anything that is useful and pleasant for the baby is possible, but you should give up bad habits, overwork and avoid stressful situations.

The second trimester of pregnancy is rightfully considered the most calm, measured and comfortable for the expectant mother. The initial fears, anxieties and concerns are already behind us, but at the same time the woman still feels her former lightness and mobility, so she can do her usual work without much effort, only avoiding excessive stress.

Mental communication with the baby, who is comfortably located in her tummy, allows a woman to tune in to the upcoming motherhood and feel unity with the new life that has arisen. A child, even in the womb, feels all her thoughts, so a calm attitude towards his own situation and the world around him in general will create the most favorable conditions for the development of the fetus.

An expectant mother pregnant with her first child may ask: what is the second trimester? What week does this period begin and when does it end?

According to the generally accepted classification, the second trimester of pregnancy includes the time from 13 to 26 weeks of pregnancy, i.e. the middle of this period. Its main difference from the first trimester is that all the fetal organs are already practically formed, and from the third - that the size of the pregnant woman’s abdomen is still relatively small, and the fetal body weight is also quite low.

Chinese calendar for determining the gender of a child

What happens in the second trimester

The main thing that is characteristic of the second trimester of pregnancy is the further development and improvement of all fetal organs, the rudiments of which were formed earlier. By the end of this period, the child looks like a newborn and even has a chance of survival in case of premature birth.

The second trimester is rightfully considered the most comfortable, as the woman begins to feel better than in the first weeks of pregnancy. The likelihood of miscarriage decreases, so the expectant mother can worry less about possible complications. According to statistical studies, only 25% of miscarriages occur in the second trimester. Such spontaneous abortions are also called late miscarriages. But this happens quite rarely, so the expectant mother should not worry too much.

A great joy for a woman in the second trimester is the movement of her baby. The first movements, which are still barely noticeable, are perceived by the pregnant woman as a sign that the baby is alive and is making itself known in this way.

Another pleasant moment for the expectant mother is the opportunity to find out the sex of the baby during an ultrasound examination and even see her baby in the pictures obtained using an ultrasound machine.

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In most cases, gender can be determined quite accurately, and only in some cases the baby is embarrassed to demonstrate his distinctive gender characteristics.

Fetal development

During the entire second trimester, the fetus changes significantly in appearance. If at the very beginning of this period its weight was no more than 20 grams, and its body length was about 7 cm, then at the end of the second trimester of pregnancy the baby already weighs from 850 g to 1000 g, while the body length in the coccygeal-parietal size is 23- 24 cm, and at full height - about 35 cm. Thus, from a tiny embryo it becomes a rather large, strong one weighing almost a kilogram.

If you trace the development of the fetus by calendar months, then in the fourth month of pregnancy the following changes occur:

The fetal skeleton grows and strengthens rapidly.
The abdominal organs develop.
The kidneys take their rightful place and begin to secrete urine.
The stomach, gall bladder and intestines of the fetus begin to function.
The cerebral cortex is intensively formed.
The adrenal glands begin to produce hormones.

In the fifth month of fetal life, the following occurs:

The fetus begins to move so intensely that the woman feels its movements. As a rule, in pregnant women for the first time this occurs at 19-20 weeks, and in subsequent pregnancies - at 16-18 weeks.
The glands of the endocrine system are actively functioning: the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, etc.
The spleen produces blood cells.
The skin of the fetus is covered with a special lubricant.

The following changes occur in the body of a six-month fetus:

During waking hours, the fetus moves actively, the rest of the time it sleeps. The total duration of sleep during the day is 16-20 hours.
The fetus can make breathing movements, but the lung tissue still does not expand.
The mass of the brain increases rapidly. By the end of the sixth month it reaches 100 grams.
The higher parts of the cerebral cortex develop. The baby’s mental abilities are formed, as well as a penchant for creativity. Some experts believe that if a woman suffers from depression at this time, then her child may subsequently also develop a tendency to this illness.
The fetal sense organs begin to function.

The placenta also undergoes great changes. Starting from the 14th week, the placenta fully provides the functions of transferring nutrients from the mother’s body to the fetus. In addition, this organ reliably protects the baby from the negative effects of toxic substances, mechanical shocks and other factors.

Changes in the body of the expectant mother

In order to ensure the process of growth and development of the fetus, the pregnant woman’s body works in an enhanced mode. The load on all systems increases: endocrine, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, etc.

During the second trimester of pregnancy, the following changes occur in the female body:

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After the 20th week, the uterus may periodically become toned, and the woman may feel slight contractions, the so-called Braxton-Hicks training contractions. Thus, the uterus performs a kind of exercise aimed at preparing for the upcoming birth.
Under the influence of certain hormones, the mammary glands continue to increase in size. The skin around the nipples darkens a little, and colostrum may be released from the nipples themselves.
Due to the rapid development of the fetus and an increase in the body's need for nutrients, iron deficiency anemia may occur, a condition that in some cases requires drug correction. But you should not prescribe iron-containing medications yourself, because moderate anemia in pregnant women is a completely normal phenomenon that can be corrected with a balanced diet. But foods rich in iron (apples, buckwheat porridge) can be consumed without special restrictions.
Since the enlarged uterus puts pressure on the intestines, a pregnant woman may experience constipation. You can get rid of this problem by eating enough foods containing fiber: fruits, vegetables, cereals.
Many women may experience heartburn. It occurs most often in the second trimester and can continue until the moment of birth.
The amount of vaginal discharge in a woman may increase. If this is not accompanied by itching, burning and other unpleasant symptoms, and the discharge has a whitish tint, then there is no need to worry. Otherwise, you should consult a doctor, because this condition can be dangerous.
During the second trimester, some women may experience swelling. Swelling occurs more often in the third trimester, closer to the time of birth, so the appearance of alarming symptoms in the middle of pregnancy should alert the expectant mother.
Women prone to varicose veins may notice in mid-pregnancy that the veins in their legs have become bulging and nodular vascular formations have appeared. In order to prevent the occurrence of vein diseases, it is recommended to move more and change body position as often as possible.
Skin pigmentation may occur in certain areas, mainly in the abdomen, sometimes on the face. After giving birth, your skin color will return to normal, so don't worry about it.

Feelings during this period

In the second trimester of pregnancy, the expectant mother may experience a whole range of sensations:

The mood becomes more stable, self-esteem increases, and the level of anxiety noticeably decreases. The reason for the normalization of the emotional state is the stabilization of hormonal status, as well as the fact that the woman has already become accustomed to her new status as a future mother.
It becomes more difficult for a pregnant woman to tolerate temperature changes, physical and emotional stress. In order to prevent deterioration of well-being due to the influence of these factors, it is necessary to provide yourself with at least a minimum level of comfort, dress according to the season, and also rest regularly.
Thanks to the appearance of the baby's first movements in the middle of the second trimester, the woman begins to more clearly feel that there is a new life inside her.

Tests and examinations in the second trimester

During the second trimester, the doctor will recommend that the expectant mother attend an antenatal clinic every two weeks. During each examination, the specialist will measure the volume of the abdomen and determine the woman’s body weight. In addition, starting from week 16, the doctor will measure the height of the uterine fundus.

Additionally, at this time, the following tests will be prescribed in the second trimester of pregnancy, as well as certain types of examinations:

general blood analysis;
Analysis of urine;
antibody analysis with a high probability of Rh conflict between the mother and fetus;
ultrasound examination of the fetus;
tests to determine the level of certain hormones.

The last two types of studies are part of the second prenatal screening, which consists of performing an ultrasound and determining the level of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), and estriol.

Using a triple test, you can identify possible defects or disorders in the development of the fetus, including chromosomal abnormalities.

As a rule, the second prenatal screening is prescribed at 16-18 weeks of pregnancy. If results indicate possible abnormalities in fetal development, the woman may be advised to undergo a more detailed examination by a geneticist and perform tests such as chorionic villus sampling or late amniocentesis. This will identify possible chromosomal abnormalities.

If there are other indications, for example, signs of gestosis or cardiac dysfunction, pregnant women undergo other types of tests (ultrasound of the kidneys, cardiography, etc.). You should also keep in mind that the 2nd trimester of pregnancy is the optimal time to visit a dentist, ENT specialist and other specialized specialists.

Main hazards and risks

The greatest danger for the expectant mother in the 2nd trimester are the following situations:

Premature termination of pregnancy. This pathology can be classified as spontaneous abortion or premature birth. A fetus born before 22 weeks is considered non-viable, while a baby born later has some chance of survival.
Pathologies of the cervix, in particular, isthmic-cervical insufficiency. In such cases, premature thinning and dilation of the cervix occurs, which significantly increases the risk of miscarriage or childbirth. The main method of treatment is suturing or installing special devices on the cervical area. The optimal time for correcting this pathology is 18-22 weeks.
Preeclampsia, accompanied by the appearance of edema, increased blood pressure, and detection of protein in the urine. Signs of gestosis may appear after 20 weeks. This pathology poses a serious danger not only to the fetus, but also to the woman, as it significantly increases the risk of serious complications, including heart attack or stroke.
Intrauterine infection of the fetus due to the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the mother’s body, including pathogens of sexually transmitted diseases.

Many pregnant women would like to receive more information about the so-called critical periods of pregnancy. Dangerous weeks of the second trimester are the period from 18 to 22 weeks, when pathologies such as cervical dilation, defects in the location of the placenta (incorrect presentation, placement in the area of a previously operated scar, etc.), infection of the fetus with ureaplasma, chlamydia and other pathogens may appear. infectious diseases.