The Second Trimester in Pregnancy

One of the best things about the second trimester is that you no longer experience morning sickness. You'll also start to feel your energy returning as you body has become used to the changes in readiness for childbirth. For many expectant mums, the second trimester is the most enjoyable period of pregnancy.

We've listed below some of the other things to expect during the second trimester:

• You will start to feel more in control of your body and have more energy.
  
  
• If you have not already thought about it, you will need to start considering maternity clothes.
  
  
• Other people will begin to notice that you are pregnant as you start to grow.
  
  
• The feelings of tiredness will disappear; this is because the foetal organ is mostly developed.
  
  
• You will start to experience movements from your baby as he or she starts to move about.
  
  
• Depending on your age, you might find that you are monitored more closely during the second trimester. This is more common in women over the age of thirty five.
  
  
• For some, a very important moment can happen in the second trimester, the identification of the child's sex.
  
  
• You may start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions

For many, the second trimester is the first time that there has been tangible evidence that a new baby is on the way. This is especially true for fathers to be, during the first trimester they may have felt left out or confused about what they could be doing to help. The second trimester is often the first time the father will feel a kick and show a sense of enthusiasm for the baby.

Many families take advantage of the second trimester to take a break or relaxing holiday. Medical advisers suggest that the second trimester is the best time to take a vacation during a pregnancy, so long as a few precautions are taken. Obviously, high energy holidays such as skiing or wind surfing should be avoided.

If you are considering a break during the second trimester, make sure that you have researched the medical facilities available at your destination. You will also need to think about medical insurance and make sure they are aware that you are pregnant; many travel insurance companies will not cover an expectant mum.

Flying should not be a problem during the second trimester, however it is advisable to seek medical clearance first, in fact some airlines will insist on this before allowing you to board the plane. You should also avoid very long flights and make sure that you drink plenty of fluids will onboard. Also, whilst on board take care of your own comfort; try to keep the blood circulating by walking up and down the aisle regularly.

As you can see, the second trimester is when you take back the power and can start doing things again. If you can, try to take advantage of this three month period as it will not seem like a long time before the third trimester is upon you. This will mean new challenges both physical and emotional, so enjoy the second trimester whilst you can.

Read more of our articles on the second trimester

Second Trimester - Enjoy Being Pregnant
Adjusting Physically and Psychologically in The Second Trimester
The Second Trimester in Pregnancy and The Work Place
Things to Expect In the Second Trimester

Read about the other trimesters

• First Trimester
• Third Trimester