It is quite common for most couples to hide the news of the arrival of their baby till the passing of the first trimester. It is believed that pregnant women are prone to some of the most serious complications during the first trimester; therefore, they prefer to take extra care during that time. Nonetheless, it is to be noted that none of the three trimesters are really exempted from complications as well as overwhelming physical and mental changes in the woman’s body. The 2nd trimester of pregnancy starts from the fourth month of pregnancy and continues until the end of the sixth month. So basically, the fourth, fifth and sixth months of the entire pregnancy comprise the second trimester, and these three months imply that the second trimester contains 12 weeks in total.

In this article, we will discuss 11 crazy things that you’ll notice in the second trimester of your pregnancy. Read on to find out all about the rollercoaster ride that you’re going to experience in your second trimester:

11 Crazy Things Happening to Your Body during Second Trimester

Headaches

Some women experience headaches due to hormonal changes and possible dehydration if you aren’t drinking enough water. Continue drinking two litres of water per day to prevent them or take paracetamol, which is safe to take during pregnancy, if they continue. The condition preeclampsia doesn’t usually develop in the second trimester but it’s not unheard of, so if your headaches are coupled with visual disturbances, swelling and/or upper abdominal pain, you need to call your doctor immediately.

Cramps

A lot of women experience cramps, ranging from mild to severe. Unless you see blood accompanying the cramps, don’t worry too much about them. Your baby is growing and cramps are indicative of your trying to adjust to this change and create more space for the baby.

Weight gain

Many women start gaining weight from this trimester. The weight gain depends on a lot of factors, ranging from genes to your food habits as well as your hormonal conditions. Just keep checking with your doctor and immediately report any unusual weight gain.

Back pain

Because your baby is growing into a noticeable size, your spine is arched and not straight. This causes lumber back or lower back pain, or even in some cases coccydonia. Coccyx or tailbone pain, although common during this time, is very painful and if you experience this, you should immediately consult your doctor.

Nausea

Nausea is one of the most recurring things during your entire pregnancy, so there is no need to worry about this. Just maintain a proper diet and mark any foods which make you feel more nauseous than usual. Remove those foods from your diet.

Pelvic pain

Blame your baby! Just kidding, relax. This is again due to your growing baby, so you have to put up with this for a while. However, if the pain gets severe, go to your doctor.

Bigger cup size

During the first trimester, your breasts may become very sore but this should resolve by the middle of your second trimester. You may now notice they have continued to grow, one may even be marginally bigger than the other. That’s normal and is due to hormonal preparation. Make sure you change your bra and wear the right bra size so you are comfortable.

Increased libido

Everyone is different when it comes to having sex during pregnancy. Some women feel more confident and have a higher sex drive. Others simply don’t feel like it and some stop having sex around this time. What you need to know is that it’s safe, healthy and natural. Some partners think they will hurt their baby, your cervix is closed (which protects and supports your baby) so there’s absolutely nothing dangerous about having sex during pregnancy. If you want it, then do it. If not, that’s fine and don’t feel concerned just do what suits you but don’t let fear put you off.

Sign of your baby moving

The first movements are usually around 14 to 18 weeks, if it’s your first baby. Don’t worry about monitoring movement until 24 weeks. Most hospitals won’t monitor you until then or consider it as ‘reduced foetal movement’ before 24 weeks. If you’re still concerned, private scans are an option, to put your mind at rest but be mindful of how many you will have as we do not know the long-term effects of several scans throughout pregnancy from an early gestation.

No morning sickness

A lot of women experience morning sickness throughout the course of their pregnancy, but usually, it goes away after the first trimester.

Nose bleeds

It’s common to experience nosebleeds in the second trimester due to hormonal changes and you shouldn’t be concerned, although it can be a bit startling if you have never had one before as its fresh red blood! You can also have more mucous, so try to blow your nose gently as aggressive blowing can bring one on. You should lean forward; pinch the soft part of your nose, below the bone, with a tissue until the bleeding stops. We would recommend you carry some nice soft tissues around with you just in case you get one.

Crazy, isn’t it? But then, nobody said pregnancy is going to be a bed of roses. Enjoy this period as much as you can, because this experience is truly unique. However, if you think things are getting out of hand, always consult your doctor.