Second Trimester of Pregnancy
Welcome to the golden period of pregnancy! The second trimester brings increased energy, the excitement of feeling baby movements, and important milestones like the anatomy scan.
Duration
Weeks 13-26 of pregnancy
Key Milestone
Usually around weeks 18-22
Energy Level
Often called the "golden period"
👶Your Baby's Development in the Second Trimester
Weeks 13-16: Rapid Growth
- • Facial features become more defined
- • Baby can make facial expressions
- • Kidneys begin producing urine
- • Sex organs are clearly visible on ultrasound
- • Baby's movements increase significantly
Weeks 17-20: Midpoint Milestone
- • You may start feeling baby movements (quickening)
- • Baby can hear sounds from outside the womb
- • Anatomy scan reveals detailed development
- • Baby's sleep-wake patterns develop
- • Vernix (protective coating) begins forming
Weeks 21-24: Active Period
- • Baby movements become stronger and more frequent
- • Taste buds develop and baby can taste amniotic fluid
- • Brain development accelerates rapidly
- • Baby may respond to sounds and music
- • Lungs begin producing surfactant
Weeks 25-26: Viability Milestone
- • Baby reaches viability milestone (can survive outside womb)
- • Eyes begin to open
- • Baby can grasp and respond to touch
- • Rapid weight gain begins
- • All major organs continue maturing
🔬Important Tests & Appointments
Anatomy Scan (Weeks 18-22)
Detailed ultrasound to check baby's development
- • Check all major organs and body systems
- • Measure baby's growth and estimate weight
- • Determine baby's sex (if desired)
- • Check placenta position and amniotic fluid levels
- • Screen for major birth defects
Glucose Screening (Weeks 24-28)
Test for gestational diabetes
- • One-hour glucose tolerance test
- • May require three-hour follow-up if abnormal
- • Important for identifying gestational diabetes
- • Affects about 6-7% of pregnancies
Regular Prenatal Visits
Monthly appointments throughout second trimester
- • Monitor baby's heartbeat and growth
- • Check your weight and blood pressure
- • Measure fundal height (uterus size)
- • Discuss any symptoms or concerns
- • Review test results and plan next steps
🤰Your Body Changes in the Second Trimester
Positive Changes
- Increased energy: Morning sickness fades, energy returns
- Better sleep: Less frequent urination at night
- Glowing skin: Increased blood circulation
- Baby movements: Exciting milestone around week 16-20
New Symptoms
- Growing belly: More noticeable pregnancy bump
- Round ligament pain: Sharp pains as uterus grows
- Back pain: Increased weight and posture changes
- Heartburn: Growing baby pushes on stomach
✓Second Trimester To-Do Checklist
Medical & Health
Preparation & Planning
Second Trimester Week by Week
Click on any week to get detailed information about your baby's development and your body's changes.
Previous: First Trimester
Weeks 1-12: Early development
Next: Third Trimester
Weeks 27-40: Final preparations
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided about the second trimester of pregnancy is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance throughout your pregnancy.