The 2nd Trimester of Your Pregnancy: A Midwifery Blog Lelystad
Hi parents-to-be! How wonderful that you are experiencing this special journey with us. Midwives Lelystad we are here to support you during this phase of pregnancy. In this blog we dive into the second trimester, a period that is often experienced as the most pleasant. The first discomforts are usually over and you start to feel your baby more clearly. Let's see together what you can expect!
What's happening to your baby?
During the second trimester, your baby grows rapidly. From about 7 centimeters at the beginning he or she grows into 35 centimeter at the end of this trimester. In addition, the organs continue to develop:
- The stomach produces digestive juices.
- The kidneys produce urine.
- The liver begins to produce bile.
Around week 20 you can often tell whether you are expecting a boy or a girl, if you want to know of course!
Your baby is also busy practicing. The muscles are getting stronger and the movements are more conscious. From week 24 many women feel their baby move for the first time. A special moment when the bond between you and your child becomes stronger! Did you know that your baby can now hear too? Talk, sing or read to them, because your baby recognizes your voice.
What's happening to you?
The second trimester is known as a period when many women feel more energetic feel. The nausea of the first months often disappears and your belly is now really starting to become visible. This is a beautiful phase, but can also bring discomfort, such as:
- Tire pain and back pain due to the growing belly.
- Heartburn due to the pressure of the uterus on the stomach.
- Changes in your skin – from a 'pregnancy glow' to pregnancy mask (melasma).
Take care of yourself and get enough rest. Every pregnancy is unique, so listen to your body.
The role of your partner
This is also a special time for your partner. Now that the first discomforts are less, this is a good time to plan fun things together and arrange important matters:
- Furnishing the baby's room
- Arrange maternity leave
- Choosing childcare
- Preparing for childbirth together
Bee Midwives Lelystad We like to involve partners in the checks and discussions, so that you are well prepared together.
Important tasks in the second trimester
There are a number of things you can arrange in the second trimester:
- Request the maternity package
- Make an appointment for a prenatal ultrasound
- Think about the 20-week ultrasound
- Arrange maternity care
- Discover your rights in the workplace
- Consider the NIPT test
- Decide where you want to give birth
- Register for a pregnancy course
- Get the 22-week injection
- Parental leave regulations
Emotional well-being
Feeling the baby and finding out the gender can strengthen the emotional bond. Discuss your feelings and any fears with your partner and midwife. Midwives Lelystad We would love to hear your questions and concerns.
Nutrition and exercise
A healthy and balanced diet remains important. Ensure sufficient nutrients and keep moving. Pregnancy gymnastics or swimming can be pleasant and safe. Pay attention to healthy weight gain and discuss this with your midwife.
Possible complications
The risk of a miscarriage decreases in the second trimester, which is often reassuring. Stay alert for signs of premature contractions or other complications and if in doubt always contact your midwife.
Preparing for childbirth
Some parents start with a pregnancy as early as the second trimester birth plan, in which they record their wishes and preferences for the delivery. Taking a pregnancy course can also help you prepare well.
Conclusion
The second trimester is a special time in which your baby grows and the bond becomes stronger. Enjoy the movements of your child and the preparations for the arrival. Take good care of yourself and always contact us if you have any questions. Midwives Lelystad we are happy to help you!
Stay informed!
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Take care of yourself and your little one!
With kind regards,
Midwives Lelystad
Address: Badweg 21, 8223 PA Lelystad
Telephone: 06 53 65 91 91