2nd Trimester – Weeks, Development, Physical & Psychological Changes
Second trimester (13 to 27 Weeks)
The second trimester in pregnancy is typically considered the most comfortable period of time for the majority of pregnant women.
Fetal Development
In the second trimester of pregnancy, the fetus will multiply more than seven times. The fetal development in the second trimester will include the following:
- The fetus will start kicking, moving, and will start turning from side to side.
- The fetus will start hearing the mother’s voice.
- It will develop reflexes, like swallowing and sucking.
- The fetus can respond to certain stimuli.
- The placenta will be fully developed.
- The fingerprints and toeprints will be formed.
- The fetus will go through cycles of sleep and wakefulness.
The second trimester in pregnancy is when most women can feel their baby move for the first time, usually by 20 weeks.
Physical Changes
During the second trimester, the women experiences decreased nausea, better sleep patterns, and an increased energy level. However, a whole new set of second-trimester symptoms, such as back pain, abdominal pain, leg cramps, constipation, and heartburn may appear.
Psychological Changes
Expectant mothers may expect some relief in the symptoms of the second trimester. The mood swings aren’t that frequent, but fetal movements may make pregnant women feel overwhelmed. Emotional dependency on the partner may also increase. Some women may even experience an increased libido in their second semester.
