In our last blog post, we talked about what you can expect during your first trimester. Now, let’s talk about what to expect during the second trimester of your pregnancy. Your baby is growing and developing quickly inside your womb, so the side effects of your pregnancy will increase some, although the good thing is morning sickness is usually gone by the second trimester. We here at Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN find our patients complain frequently about the following second-trimester symptoms.
Belly and Breast Increases
You will begin to see your pregnancy more during the second trimester. Both your belly and your breasts will enlarge during this time. Your uterus will expand to make room for your growing baby, so plan to purchase new clothes and support bras during this time. Make sure the clothing is comfortable.
Contractions
Do not panic. Braxton Hicks contractions are normal during the second trimester. Unless these contractions are severe and/or accompanied by bleeding, you probably have nothing to worry about. You may feel light contractions after sex or working out. If they go away, you are probably just fine.
Patchy Skin
Your skin changes during pregnancy because your hormones change and these hormone changes affect your melanin, the pigment-bearing skin cells. If you start to notice brown spots on your skin, this is normal. You may also see a dark line running down your abdomen. These should fade after you deliver.
Stuffy Nose
As discussed in our last blog post, pregnancy increases blood production and this increase over-stimulates your kidneys, bladder and, in the second trimester, your mucous membranes. Expect a stuffy nose during your second trimester. You might also experience nose bleeds. Saline drops can help.
Bleeding Gums
It’s wise to switch to the softest toothbrush you can find during your second trimester. You may also need to be more careful when you floss. Some pregnant women experience sensitive gums during their second trimester and they often bleed when the women brush and floss.
Leg Cramps
This side effect is not fun during the second trimester or any part of your pregnancy. Most women get leg cramps in the middle of the night, so stretch your calves gently before you go to bed. Stay hydrated, too, to avoid muscle cramps. Exercising in comfortable shoes can also help.
Finally, you might notice vaginal discharge during your second trimester and experience frequent bladder infections. Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN in Stockbridge, GA, can help. Call us at 770-474-1919.
