Second Trimester Pregnancy: Changes and When to Seek Help

New Trimester, New Changes

The second trimester of pregnancy (week 14 to week 27) is frequently regarded as the most beautiful time of pregnancy. Many people experience a reduction in morning sickness and tiredness at this stage of the pregnancy.  

During this, the foetus continues to grow, gaining weight, assuming the characteristics of a newborn, and an ultrasound will be performed to check on the foetus development. During this development process, you need to consult the doctor to know the condition of your baby and your current situation.  

Let us learn when to consult the doctor during trimester 2.

Changes During Pregnancy

Do you know what is normal and what is not during pregnancy? What signs or symptoms should concern you?

Changes During Pregnancy

1. Normal Changes during Trimester 2

• Swelling: your face, hands, and feet might exhibit light swelling.
• Urge to urinate: The uterus expands during pregnancy, gradually to accommodate the growing foetus, which puts pressure on your pelvic area. This may lead to an urge to urinate more often.
• Skin Changes: Your face or abdomen may turn darker, while you are expecting a baby. Stretch marks start to appear as the abdomen grows.
• Body aches
• Increased appetite

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2. Warning Signals Of Trimester 2

Your body changes throughout the pregnancy. A few changes might indicate the risk of a complicated pregnancy. 

The signs and symptoms, which suggest there might be a serious issue are:

• If you vomit excessively during your pregnancy, it may lead to dehydration, which may affect the baby.
• Vaginal bleeding is a dangerous sign during pregnancy.
• Excessive discharge from your vagina may indicate an infection.
• If you experience pain or burning sensation while passing urine or are unable to control the flow of urine from the bladder, it can indicate a urinary tract infection, which needs to be resolved.
• If you feel extremely weak or dizzy during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider for the solution.
• When you don’t gain enough weight or you are losing weight during pregnancy, it needs medical attention.
• Severe headache or blurring of vision can indicate high blood pressure during pregnancy.
• You might experience some shortness of breath, but if you constantly feel out of breath, you need to consult your doctor.
• If you experience severe pain or cramps in the abdomen, there may be a chance of pregnancy loss.
• If you feel reduced movements of the baby, it would be better to consult your doctor.
• If you experience severe itchiness in your hands, feet, or belly.
• Abdominal contractions may occur normally, at times until the birth of your child. But, if you have painful or regular contractions, along with spots, seek medical care immediately.
• You may feel pressure on the pelvis as the baby grows inside the womb. However, if the pressure is too much accompanied by a vaginal discharge, it might suggest that your cervix is dilated and there is a tendency for preterm birth of the baby.
• If you feel depressed or anxious for a few weeks, talk to your doctor.
• If you feel extremely weak, dizzy, or become unconscious for a few moments, you need to call your doctor and get a check-up done.
• If you have a fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms, you should consult your doctor for the medications you require.

Tests Performed During Trimester 2

The tests which may be performed by your doctor during trimester 2 are:

Tests Performed During Trimester 2

• Blood group and Rh factor: The doctor estimates your blood type and if you are Rh-positive or Negative. If you are Rh-negative and your partner is Rh-positive, your blood may develop antibodies against the foetal blood.
• Glucose tolerance test: This test is done to check for gestational diabetes. It is done to measure blood sugar levels.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is done between 18 to 22 weeks of gestation, to estimate any major defect in the abdomen, limbs, heart, face, or brain or to ensure proper development of the baby. 

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