What happens during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy for you and your future baby? Your baby is quite active and reacts to external stimuli.
The 4th Month of Pregnancy
The Baby: During the 15th week, some hair starts to appear, and in some cases, the baby's hair may begin to grow. The following week, the fetus starts making its first movements: it transitions from a curled position to a sitting position, moves its arms and legs. Experienced mothers may feel the fetus moving even if its movements are not easily noticeable yet. By the 17th week, internal genital organs develop and differentiate. Growth accelerates. By the end of the 18th week, the fetus is about 18 cm long and weighs around 200 grams.
The Mother: The uterus continues to grow, rising to the level of your navel, and your pregnancy becomes visible. This growth of the uterus has two types of consequences. It increases pressure on the bladder, making you urinate more frequently. Also, the uterus takes up space in the abdominal cavity, exerting pressure on the organs of the digestive system. Some women may experience heartburn, intestinal transit disorders (constipation), and digestive difficulties. You may experience increased appetite. Women who suffered from nausea and vomiting finally enjoy eating healthy foods that contribute to the fetus's development. The fatigue from early pregnancy fades away.
The 5th Month of Pregnancy
The Baby: The brain is continuously working on the maturation of all its functions. In the amniotic sac, the fetus is sensitive to the external environment (noise, light, activities). It often settles into a rhythm of wakefulness and sleep, which may not always be in sync with the mother's. Growth continues vigorously. By the end of the 5th month, the length is about 22 cm, and the weight is around 400 grams. This month includes the second ultrasound, known as the morphological ultrasound, where you will find out the baby's sex.
The Mother: Your belly continues to round out, and you feel comfortable in your fashionable maternity clothes. Physically, you get out of breath more quickly than before, as your oxygen needs increase. Your gums and teeth are more fragile, so remember to see your dentist. Digestive difficulties may hinder food intake more than the previous month. Try to maintain your good habits. Your breasts continue to prepare for breastfeeding. Swollen, they may already secrete a yellowish liquid, colostrum, which will nourish your baby in the first few days after birth.
The 6th Month of Pregnancy
The Baby: The baby is quite active and reacts to external stimuli. Its auditory system is functional. It enjoys its parents' voices, music, and the familiar soundscape. When not sleeping for about 20 hours a day, the fetus is very active, as if anticipating the reduction of its play space towards the end of pregnancy. Physically, tiny blood vessels appear under the skin, giving the fetus a rosy complexion. The respiratory system is now functional. By the end of the 26th week, the length is about 33 cm, and the weight is around 800 grams.
The Mother: Your baby increasingly needs oxygen and nutrients to continue its development. As a result, your blood circulates a little faster without raising your blood pressure. Your body has changed and continues to adapt to the progress of pregnancy. The position of the uterus has risen above the navel. Your skin tightens. Remember to apply specific skincare to prevent stretch marks. You may sometimes experience back pain, muscle and ligament tension, heavy legs, and more frequent need to sit or lie down. Take rest whenever needed.