The second trimester of your pregnancy is filled with exciting changes. Your baby is growing rapidly, and you're beginning to feel its movements. This is often the most comfortable period of pregnancy, as nausea and fatigue subside. You should pay particular attention to a balanced diet and regular exercise to keep you and your baby healthy. Don't forget to visit your doctor regularly to make sure everything is going well. Enjoy this special time and prepare for the final trimester as delivery approaches.
Counting the weeks of pregnancy
How are the weeks of pregnancy counted? Your pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. The start of your pregnancy is considered to be the time of your last menstrual period. However, ovulation and fertilization usually occur two weeks later. Therefore, you weren't actually pregnant for the first two weeks of the count. The division of pregnancy weeks into the three trimesters is a rough guideline. In the blog articles on the 1st trimester, 2nd trimester, and 3rd trimester, we use the most common division.
First trimester: 0-12 weeks
Second trimester: 13-27 weeks
Third trimester: 28-40 weeks
Your baby's development
In the second trimester of pregnancy, your baby's growth continues at an impressive pace. After the changes of the first trimester, you can look forward to even more exciting developments.
On average, the second trimester of pregnancy lasts approximately 14 weeks: from the 13th to the 27th week of pregnancy. However, please note that the exact duration of the second trimester can vary slightly, depending on the individual pregnancy and medical definition.
All height and weight measurements described below are approximate, and deviations may occur. You can find out your baby's exact size and development during an ultrasound scan. If you are unsure, always consult your doctor or midwife.
Month 4: rapid development
The fourth month marks the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy. Your baby is experiencing impressive development. During this time, many expectant mothers begin to feel their baby's first movements, which is an exciting milestone. Your baby's organs are largely formed and are beginning to function. Your baby's facial features are taking shape. You can see their eyelids, nose, lips, and ears. Because their sense of hearing is also developing, your baby can respond to outside sounds. For many women, the fourth month is a time of elation and anticipation of the upcoming birth, which draws closer as the pregnancy progresses.
In the fourth month of pregnancy, your baby is about the size of a grapefruit. However, their exact weight and measurements depend on individual development. In an average pregnancy, the baby weighs around 150 grams and is approximately 12 to 16 centimeters long during this month.
Month 5: your baby gets its first hair
During the fifth month of pregnancy, your baby is growing bigger and stronger, and their hearing is becoming more acute. This is a great opportunity for you to communicate with your baby. Their lungs are also continuing to develop, and they're beginning to develop body hair, called lanugo. Your baby's movements will become more noticeable, so you'll be able to hear their gentle kicks and bumps more clearly. During the fifth month, you should have regular checkups to make sure your pregnancy is progressing healthily and to discuss any questions or concerns.
In the fifth month of pregnancy, the baby is typically about the size of a zucchini or celeriac, depending on individual growth. In most pregnancies, the baby weighs about 700 grams to 1 kilogram and measures approximately 25 to 30 centimeters in length.
Month 6: your baby recognizes voices
The sixth month concludes the second trimester of pregnancy. Your baby's hearing continues to improve, and they can even recognize your voices. Their lungs prepare for breathing after birth. Their movements become even more intense. Your baby also stores fat reserves to insulate their body. During this time, the pregnancy is already clearly visible, and the expectant mother continues to experience the joys and challenges of impending motherhood. Regular checkups are still important to monitor your health and that of your child.
In the sixth month of pregnancy, the baby is usually about the size of a honeydew melon or an eggplant. On average, the baby now weighs approximately 2 to 2.5 kilograms and measures approximately 30 to 35 centimeters in length.
Good to know
During the second trimester, it's important to ensure you get enough exercise. Your obstetrician/gynecologist will perform regular checkups to ensure your baby's development is progressing well. Don't forget that this is also a wonderful time to build a close bond with your unborn child. You can start with gentle touch and conversation.
Pregnancy symptoms in the 2nd trimester
Headaches in the 2nd trimester
Headaches are a common symptom during the second trimester of pregnancy. There are various causes, including hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and stress. Some expectant mothers also experience tension headaches due to tension in the neck and shoulder area. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, practice relaxation techniques, and, if necessary, talk to your doctor about safe pain relief options.
Circulatory problems in the 2nd trimester
Pregnancy hormones can affect blood pressure and lead to circulatory problems. Many women experience dizziness and occasionally even fainting. This often happens when they stand up too quickly. To counteract these symptoms, you should get up slowly and get plenty of rest. Lying down and sleeping on your left side can help improve blood flow.
Lack of sleep in the 2nd trimester
Physical discomforts—such as increased urination, back pain, or baby movements—often rob expectant mothers of sleep during the second trimester of pregnancy. This leads to fatigue and exhaustion. A few basic tips can help you improve your night's rest: Maintain good sleep hygiene, create a pleasant atmosphere in your bedroom, and avoid stimulants before bedtime.
Heartburn in the 2nd trimester
Heartburn is a common problem for pregnant women in the second trimester. Because the growing uterus presses on the stomach, stomach acid can more easily enter the esophagus and cause the burning sensation. Eating smaller meals, staying upright after eating, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help reduce heartburn.
Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and symptoms and discomfort can vary from woman to woman. If you feel unsure or unwell, it's advisable to consult your doctor or midwife for the best possible care and advice.
Self-test during pregnancy
Self-tests of urine or vaginal pH can help keep an eye on these key parameters. If you are unsure about the use and the results, always discuss them with a doctor!
What is done during the second trimester screening?
During the second trimester of pregnancy, various important examinations are performed to ensure the health of the mother and baby. Screening is designed to identify potential risks and health problems early and initiate appropriate interventions.
1. Ultrasound examination:
One of the most exciting examinations in the second trimester is the ultrasound. Typically, at least one ultrasound scan is performed to check the baby's growth and development. During the second trimester, the doctor can also determine the baby's sex, if you're curious.
2. Triple or Quadruple Test:
Between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, a triple or quadruple test may be performed to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. These blood tests measure various markers in the mother's blood and are combined with other factors such as age and weight.
3. Glucose tolerance test:
The glucose tolerance test, also known as gestational diabetes screening, is typically performed between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. It aims to detect gestational diabetes early to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent potential complications.
4. Anatomical ultrasound:
Typically, a detailed anatomical ultrasound is also performed in the second trimester to carefully examine the baby's organs. This allows for early detection of any abnormalities or developmental problems.
5. Blood pressure check and urine test :
Throughout pregnancy, regular blood pressure measurements and urine tests are performed to detect signs of preeclampsia and other health problems.
These second-trimester checkups are important to ensure your health and that of your baby and to treat any problems promptly. It's important to attend all recommended prenatal visits and always speak to your obstetrician or midwife if you have any questions or concerns to ensure the best possible care.
Always seek medical advice
Important note: This article contains only general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor.
The second trimester usually begins in the 13th week of pregnancy.
Ginger, frequent small meals, and adequate fluid intake can help combat nausea in the second trimester.
Folic acid remains important throughout the trimester as it contributes to the development of the baby's neural tube.
What symptoms occur in the 2nd trimester?
Make sure you eat a balanced diet, get enough exercise, have regular checkups, and gain the right amount of weight.
Gentle sports such as swimming, yoga and walking are often suitable.
Monthly checkups are generally recommended during the second trimester. However, your doctor may provide individual recommendations.
In the second trimester, nausea often decreases, the belly grows larger, and the baby becomes more active.
The recommended amount of magnesium varies. It's important to discuss your intake with your doctor.
The 2nd trimester usually ends at the 27th week of pregnancy.
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