The second trimester pregnancy is usually the most enjoyable period of the pregnancy. By this time, your body has adjusted to hormonal changes. You do not experience morning sickness any longer. Your skin glows and you feel full of energy throughout the day. However, your body is still going through lots of changes and it is important to understand these changes. Moreover, it is vital to recognize the risk signs. Since you are pregnant, it is equally significant to follow a proper diet for a healthy pregnancy.

Symptoms of second trimester pregnancy

During the second trimester pregnancy, the breasts become larger. Though the tenderness might go away, the nipples continue to be tender throughout the pregnancy. Wearing a supportive bra will take care of the discomfort that you might feel.

Besides your breasts, your belly also grows during the second trimester pregnancy. The uterus grows and becomes heavier. Some of the organs are pushed aside to make room for the growing uterus. You will gain at least 4 pounds every month, from now on.

During the second trimester, certain areas of your skin, like the skin around the nipples, certain areas of the face, and the line from the navel to the pubic bone will become darker. This is due to increased blood circulation. You might also notice stretch marks on your abdomen, thighs, buttocks, breasts, or upper arms.

Leg cramps, shortness of breath, dizziness, and aversion and/or craving for certain foods are some of the other symptoms that you might experience during the second stage of pregnancy.

Warning Signs

It is important to consult an obstetrician on a regular basis, because he or she will not only help you understand the basics of pregnancy and pregnancy Week By Week , but also tell you the warning signs to watch out for. Some of the warning signs that a pregnant woman should be concerned with, include –

• Vaginal bleeding

• Fever or chills

• Burning sensation or feeling pain while passing urine

• Continuous or severe headache

• Blurry vision

• Pain in the abdomen

• Pain or swelling in lower extremity

• Continuous vomiting

• Fluid leakage from vagina

Besides helping you understand the warning signs, an obstetrician also helps you understand the importance of a balanced diet. It is important to eat a healthy diet, because now you have a baby to think about. Gaining weight is normal during pregnancy. Do not try to lose weight during that time as it might harm both you and the baby.

Avoid junk food. It is high on fat, but low on nutrition. Green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, white meat, cereals, and plenty of water should be included in your diet.

As the second trimester pregnancy approaches to an end, many women find themselves preoccupied with the thought of impending labor and birth. Keep yourself busy and start reading books on childbirth. Do not forget to visit the doctor for regular checkups.