What are the sensations during the second trimester of pregnancy?
The second trimester is considered the best trimester of the entire pregnancy. It begins with the relief of nausea and vomiting in most cases, although it should be noted that not in all cases, and the sexual appetite that was absent during the first months usually reappears.
Approximately from 18 – 22 weeks, the baby’s movements begin to be noticed.
The most common discomfort is cramps in the legs, sometimes even waking the woman during the night.
How does the fetus develop in the second trimester of pregnancy?
- At the end of the 16th week, the fetus begins to look human: the face is wide, the legs are very long and the arms are shorter.
- The fetus begins to acquire the sucking reflex and its little fingers form a fingerprint.
- The skin of the fetus will be protected by the dermis, a fatty substance, and by the appearance of hair or lanugo.
- From 21 – 24 weeks of gestation, the sex of the fetus can be seen on ultrasound.
Specific controls during pregnancy
Visits to the specialist in gynecology should be monthly. This will control everything related to the mother’s weight (the increase during pregnancy, it is established that the weight of a single fetus is usually between 9 and 13 kg in total), in addition to blood pressure and, through blood and urine tests, requested before each visit, the general condition of the woman will be evaluated.
During the 20th week, the most important ultrasound is performed, from the point of view of diagnosing congenital malformations.
Between the 24th and 28th week, it is common for all pregnant women to undergo a blood sugar test. This consists of a basal determination and another one one hour after having ingested a specific sugar syrup containing 50g of glucose. A result with a value higher than 140mg/dl in the second analysis may indicate gestational diabetes. In these cases, it is advisable to perform a second test lasting 3 hours, during which four blood samples are taken and 100g of sugar will be administered in another sugary drink.
Recommendations for pregnant women regarding food
It is possible that the gynecologist may indicate some recommendations to the mother regarding diet, if excessive weight has been gained during pregnancy.
- It is important to increase the intake of iron and calcium.
- Folic acid, vitamin B12 and iodine should continue to be taken.
- Do not drink alcohol and do not abuse coffee, only drink two cups a day.
- During this period the dreaded varicose veins may appear, so it is recommended to avoid standing for long periods of time.
- Surely, the back begins to give discomfort. It is recommended not to wear high or excessively flat heels and to perform certain exercises to strengthen the back muscles.
- Physical exercise should be moderate. Swimming, walking and some gentle gymnastic exercises are indicated.