Pregnancy Second Trimester: Symptoms and Complications

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For many women, the second trimester is the easiest. Nausea is starting to go away and your risk of miscarriage is greatly decreased. Still, there are some important complications you should look for. It’s also important to know which symptoms are common during the second trimester.

Pregnancy Second Trimester Symptoms

• Swollen breasts. Your breasts are getting larger during your second trimester thanks to progesterone and estrogen, which are causing the milk-producing glands to swell. You may also have extra fat deposits in your breast. Nipple tenderness is also common during this stage of your pregnancy.
• Growing stomach. Your uterus is now expanding to accommodate your baby so your abdomen is quickly expanding. You’ll now be gaining 3-4 pounds per month until you deliver.
• Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions are practice for your uterus. They’re typically weak and irregular, although you should contact your doctor if they become predictable and strong or painful.
• Changes in your skin. The increased blood circulation may cause certain parts of your skin to darken, especially areas of your face, the skin around your nipples and the line running from your pubic bone to your navel.
• Stretch marks. About 90% of women get purple, red or pink stretch marks along their breasts, upper arms, abdomen, buttocks and thighs during pregnancy. This typically starts in the second trimester. The skin may also be itchy.
• Gum or nasal issues. The increased circulation may also lead to snoring, nose bleeds and congestion. Your gums are also softened, so you may notice a bit of bleeding when you brush your teeth or floss.
• Dizziness. Your blood pressure may occasionally fall and cause bouts of dizziness.
• Leg cramps. This common symptom of pregnancy usually happens at night. Try stretching before bed to prevent cramps.
• Shortness of breath. As your blood needs to carry more oxygen to the baby and placenta, your breathing rate may increase and you may feel short of breath.
• Vaginal discharge. Thin, white discharge is normal during pregnancy and works to suppress the growth of bacteria.
• Kidney or bladder infections. Hormones are now slowing the flow of urine, which makes bladder and kidney infections more common. You may have an infection if you experience backaches, abdominal pain, fever or a burning sensation when you pee.

Pregnancy Second Trimester Complications: Symptoms to Look for

• Bleeding. If you begin bleeding during the first 20 weeks, this is a sign of miscarriage. It may also be a sign that there’s a problem with your baby’s placenta. There are other pregnancy complications you should be aware of, although they are most common during your third trimester. Bleeding may be a sign of: placenta abruption, which means the placenta has separated from your uterus, and placenta previa, where the placenta is covering your cervix.
• Preterm Premature of Membranes (PPROM). You may experience preterm labor if the amniotic sac ruptures during the 2nd trimester. If you feel a gush of fluid or a slow leak from the vagina, smell the fluid. A sweet smell means it may be amniotic fluid and you should contact your health care provider immediately.
• Preeclampsia. While this is more common during the 3rd trimester, it can still happen during your second pregnancy trimester. This condition causes you to develop very high blood pressure and may interfere with your baby’s ability to get blood and oxygen.