4th, 5th and 6th months of pregnancy are usually called as “honeymoon period’. During the second trimester of pregnancy, nausea comes to an end, emotions even out and sex drive returns. Also, this is the time to start the baby’s movement. Some symptoms will subside, some become more severe and some others continue till the end of pregnancy.
Here are the most noticeable second-trimester pregnancy symptoms:
1. Breast changes:
Your breasts will continue to grow and prepare for breastfeeding after the child birth. You may feel tingling, soreness, tenderness, heaviness and feel fuller.
2. Skin pigmentation:
Increased skin pigmentation is one of the most common second-trimester pregnancy symptoms. You may observe darkening around the nipples, armpits, vulva and also inner thighs.
3. Skin changes:
Pregnant women usually have faster growth of their finger nails. You may also have skin tags under your arms or around the breasts, heat rash, blotchy patches or new moles. Also, you may notice stretch marks around your breasts and abdomen.
4. Swelling:
As the pregnancy progresses, it is common to notice swelling around several areas. Generally, feet and ankle swelling are quite common to notice and it will worse even during the third trimester.
5. Road ligaments pain:
Abdominal ligaments are becoming lose, soft and stretch to prepare your body for the upcoming labor. You may also notice pain and discomfort associated with the ligaments.
6. Lines nigra:
Though this is one of the second-trimester pregnancy symptoms considered under skin changes, it is listed individually for its uniqueness. This is a dark line start from your belly button and runs to the pubic bone. This line becomes dark during the second trimester and the darkness increases as the pregnancy progresses.
7. Appetite changes:
During the first trimester of pregnancy, most women may notice appetite changes like cravings or aversions to certain foods. These changes will continue in the second trimester also, but you need to eat frequently because of increased appetite.
8. Constipation:
Usually, it starts in the first trimester and probably continues during 2nd trimester also.
9. Heartburn:
Similar to constipation, heartburn that has started during the first trimester will continue because of the increased uterus size pushes the stomach upwards. It has the tendency to push the gastric acids upwards.
10. Breathlessness:
Mundane activities like walking to the bathroom can even make you feel winded. The growing uterus leaves less space for the lungs and making it harder for inhalation and exhalation. In case you feel severe shortness of breath, you should consult your doctor.
11. Nasal and gum problems:
As we all know that pregnancy increases blood circulation. Increased blood flow causes swelling of the lining of the nose and airways. Restricting the airflow can cause congestion, nosebleeds and even snoring. Improved blood circulation can make the gums sensitive and cause minor bleeding.
