Congratulations on crossing the halfway point of your pregnancy! You have successfully completed the first trimester, and your baby has grown from a tiny, fertilized egg to a fully-formed, active fetus. Now, it’s time for the second trimester, which is often referred to as the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. This is the time when you will start feeling more like yourself again, while your baby continues to develop and grow.
Table of Contents
Weeks 13-16
During the 13th week of pregnancy, your baby will be around the size of a lemon. At this stage of development, the baby’s gender can be determined through an ultrasound. By week 14, your baby will have grown to around 3.5 inches long and will be moving around a lot more. You may even be able to feel tiny flutters in your belly, which are commonly referred to as “quickening.”During weeks 15 and 16, your baby’s eyes and ears will move into their correct positions, and their bones will begin to harden. Additionally, their skin will become more opaque as fat stores begin to develop.
Weeks 17-20
By week 17, your baby’s cartilage will begin to turn into bone, and their hearing will improve. They can now hear your voice, so feel free to start talking or singing to them! At this stage, your baby will be around the size of a pomegranate.By week 18, your baby will be approximately 5.5 inches long and will weigh around 6.5 ounces. They will begin to develop a protective coating called vernix caseosa, which will cover their skin until birth.By week 19, your baby’s skin will begin to thicken, and their legs will become more developed. Additionally, their kidneys will start functioning, and they will be able to urinate into the amniotic fluid.By week 20, your baby will be around the size of a banana and will weigh approximately 10.5 ounces. At this stage, they will start to develop their unique fingerprints.
Weeks 21-24
By week 21, your baby’s digestive system will be fully formed, and their taste buds will begin to develop. They will also be able to swallow amniotic fluid and will start producing meconium, which is the first stool that they will pass after birth.By week 22, your baby will be approximately 11 inches long and will weigh around 1 pound. Their eyebrows and eyelashes will become more defined, and their hair will start to grow.By week 23, your baby’s bones will become harder, and their lungs will continue to develop. They will start to practice inhaling and exhaling, although they will not be breathing air yet.By week 24, your baby will be around the size of an ear of corn and will weigh approximately 1.5 pounds. Their brain will continue to develop, and they will start to develop more defined sleep and wake cycles.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to travel during the second trimester?
A: Yes, most women are able to travel safely during the second trimester. However, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before making any travel plans.Q: When should I start shopping for baby items?
A: You can start shopping for baby items at any time, but it’s usually best to wait until after your 20-week ultrasound to find out the sex of your baby. This will help you select gender-specific items, if desired.Q: How much weight should I gain during the second trimester?
A: Most women should aim to gain between 1 and 2 pounds per week during the second trimester, for a total weight gain of 12-15 pounds.Q: Can I continue to exercise during the second trimester?
A: Yes, most women are able to continue exercising during the second trimester. However, it’s important to discuss any exercise plans with your healthcare provider to ensure that they are safe for you and your baby.Q: When should I start preparing for labor and delivery?
A: It’s never too early to start learning about labor and delivery, but most women begin preparing in earnest during the third trimester. You can attend childbirth classes or read books to help you feel more prepared.