Second trimester

Second Trimester is a term used in pregnancy to define a period of time that lasts from the 13th to the 28th week. This period is also known as the middle three months of pregnancy.

Overview

The second trimester is often considered to be the easiest part of pregnancy. During this time, many of the unpleasant effects of early pregnancy disappear. At the same time, the woman starts to show a baby bump, which can lead to a new set of discomforts. The fetus also starts to hear and swallow.

Changes in the body

During the second trimester, the woman's body adjusts to the growing fetus. The body undergoes several changes including increased size of the uterus, changes in the breasts, and visible changes in the skin.

Fetal development

During the second trimester, the fetus undergoes significant development. The fetus starts to develop a more human appearance, the skeletal system hardens, and the fetus begins to develop its own blood type.

Medical care and testing

During the second trimester, regular prenatal visits are important to monitor the progress of the pregnancy. Various tests are performed during this time including ultrasound scans, amniocentesis, and glucose screening.

Risks and complications

While the second trimester is generally a period of good health, there are still risks and potential complications. These can include miscarriage, preterm labor, and gestational diabetes.

See also

• First trimester
• Third trimester
• Pregnancy

Second trimester Resources
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