10 Symptoms of the Second trimester of Pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy might not be the same for everyone, but there are certain common symptoms that occur during this time.

For the most part, this is the best phase of pregnancy. The risk is absolutely low and none of the symptoms seems to be too difficult to manage.

The most common symptoms that often scare people are:

1. Restless Legs Syndrome
2. Braxton-Hicks Cramps
3. Round Ligament pain
4. Pelvic Pain
5. Nausea
6. Bleeding gums
7. Breast Enlargement
8. Back Pain
9. Feeling the baby move
10. Itchy Vagina

Let us examine each of these symptoms individually.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Although Restless Leg Syndrome can happen to anyone, during the second trimester, the mother might experience infrequent, yet severe leg cramps and discomfort in the legs. Research indicates that Restless Legs Syndrome affects pregnant women 2 to 3 times more than it does to others.

Do not take any medication for this. Consult your doctor who can advise simple lifestyle changes that may help in alleviating the symptoms.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

These contractions are very different from your labour contractions, so do not get worried about it. During the second trimester, the size of the belly on the whole increases which might lead to cramps in the uterus.

This is not something that you should worry about as these cramps last from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Usually, these happen more at night when you are in rest position. The pain might even radiate to the hips and the groin area.

Round ligament pain

The round ligament can get stretched during the pregnancy owing to the increasing size of the uterus. You might experience acute pain on one side of your abdomen, but it is not something that you should worry about.

Please note that if you exercise during your pregnancy, you must not do it without supervision. These round ligament pains might often occur after long bouts of exercise. If the pain seems to be excessive and very sharp, speak to a doctor immediately.

Pelvic Pain

As your weight increases, your pelvis experiences a lot more pressure than otherwise. The pelvic girdle also starts stretching slowly to ensure that childbirth can happen normally. You might experience some pain in the area between your vagina and anus. Please do not panic. It is completely normal owing to the additional stress that your pelvis has to bear.

Usually, the pain starts around the centre of your pelvic girdle and might even radiate to your thigh (inner) and your groin. This might lead to difficulty in walking. Regardless of how painful it gets, do not take any kid of medication by yourself. Instead, speak to your doctor at Regency Medical Center and only take the medicine that he or she provides.

Nausea

This is probably the most common symptom of pregnancy and usually goes away in the first trimester itself. However, it is possible that sometimes, people might experience prolonged nausea which gets so bad that they can’t eat or drink anything. If that is the case, you must visit your doctor immediately. This is the growing phase for your baby and lack of proper nutrition might lead to serious consequences.

Bleeding Gums

A serious deficiency of vitamin C might lead to bleeding gums during pregnancy, but this occurs to only 30 per cent of the women. Speak to your doctor about what you must consume to make sure that you have all the vitamins from natural sources that you need.

Breast Enlargement

Your mammary glands are preparing to be able to lactate, that is why it is natural for you to experience breast enlargement. It is also possible that you might experience a mild to severe sensation of pain and tenderness on the nipples.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy. It is absolutely normal and you shouldn’t worry about it, unless it is restricting your movement. If the pain is leading to insomnia and lack of sleep, visit your doctor for help.

Feeling the baby move

At this stage, the baby is taking shape. This is why it is possible that they might start moving. You will experience movement in your stomach from time to time. While it might feel a little uncomfortable, it is one of the most beautiful feelings for a mother. Enjoy it!

Itchy Vagina

The body secretes mucus and other liquids to block out any infection that might enter through the vaginal opening. This might lead to some itching. It is important that you wear fresh clothes and keep yourself clean at all times.

On the whole, this phase of pregnancy is the most enjoyable phase. It is like experiencing magic taking place in your bodies, so enjoy it while it lasts! Remember to speak to your doctor regularly to avoid any complications.