Changes in your body

What to expect: 2nd trimester

ARTICLE

Here's what you can expect as you're moving into your second trimester

The second trimester can be easier than the first. Morning sickness usually goes away around this time. As your baby continues to grow, you’ll have new experiences to look forward to.

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Body changes

Your baby bump may start showing. But everyone is different. Some people don’t show at all.
Hormones can cause changes in your skin. These can be color and texture changes.
Your breasts will keep growing. They are getting ready to feed your baby.
Gaining weight over time is normal. It’s also very important. Most people gain about a pound per week.
Hormones can lead to mood swings. Be kind to yourself. Share your feelings.
Forgetfulness is common. Make lists and reminders to help.

Exciting experiences

You may feel tiny flutters of movement from your baby.
Your doctor will check baby's heartbeat.
You may start to feel closer to your baby. Not everyone does. That’s okay too!
You may choose to learn your baby’s sex around week 20.
Start prepping your home and making a birth plan.

Important appointments

Weeks 18-22: The mid-pregnancy ultrasound is done around this time. This is to check baby’s growth.
Weeks 24-28: A “glucose screening test” is done. This checks for gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that can happen in pregnancy).

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The second trimester is exciting! Enjoy the new experiences it brings. Keep attending prenatal visits to stay healthy.

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Sources

All of the information in our Library is evidence-based and backed by information from reputable organizations.

"Second Trimester," (2022). Pregnancy week by week. Mayo Clinic

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Staying healthy

If you're feeling sick while pregnant, it can be hard to tell what's normal and what's a sign you need medical care. Some pregnancy symptoms are completely expected, while others could mean there’s a health risk for you or your baby.

We’ll help you understand when to seek care during pregnancy, what symptoms are common, and which ones may require urgent medical attention.

Common pregnancy symptoms that are usually not a cause for concern

During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes. It’s completely normal to feel tired or uncomfortable from time to time. Here are some symptoms that are usually considered normal:

Mild nausea or morning sickness (especially in the first trimester)
Occasional headaches
Fatigue or trouble sleeping
Heartburn, constipation, or gas
Mild swelling in your ankles or feet
Low-grade fever (below 100.4°F or 38°C)

If these symptoms are manageable and don’t get worse, they typically don’t require a visit to the doctor. But you should still monitor them and reach out to your provider if anything changes.

When to call your healthcare provider

Some symptoms during pregnancy should never be ignored. If you experience any of the following, contact your provider right away:

Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours or prevents you from keeping fluids down
Persistent diarrhea or dehydration
Severe or ongoing headache
Sudden swelling in your face, hands, or around your eyes
Blurred vision, seeing spots, or flashing lights
Pain or burning while urinating
Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding
Decreased fetal movement, especially after 28 weeks
Regular contractions or cramping before 37 weeks
Fluid leaking from the vagina

These could be signs of serious pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia, infections, or preterm labor. Getting care early can protect both your health and your baby’s.

When to go to the ER or call 911

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately:

Heavy vaginal bleeding
Severe chest pain or shortness of breath
Seizures
Sudden, sharp abdominal pain
Signs of preterm labor (such as contractions or intense pelvic pressure)
Loss of consciousness or extreme dizziness

These may be medical emergencies and need urgent treatment.

How to know if you're sick or if it's a pregnancy symptom

It’s easy to confuse pregnancy symptoms with signs of illness. If you’re unsure, ask yourself:

Is the symptom new or getting worse quickly?
Are you unable to eat, sleep, or stay hydrated?
Do you feel like something just isn’t right?

When in doubt, trust your instincts. It’s always better to check in with your provider or a nurse than to wait and worry.

Preparing for birth

Getting ready for breastfeeding can be exciting! It can also be intimidating, so start with these easy steps:

1. Learn about breastfeeding

Understand the process by reading about breastfeeding. Joining local or virtual classes can also help.

Write down your goals, thoughts and any fears you may have. You can share them with a Pacify Lactation Consultant for support!

2. Get a breast pump

A pump offers flexibility. Pumping means your baby can have your breast milk even when you’re not with them.

Some health insurance plans will send you a breast pump for free. Call to find out.
You may also be able to get one through your local WIC clinic, if you are part of the program.
Talk to your doctor during prenatal visits. They can write you a prescription for a breast pump.

3. Create a supportive environment

Share your breastfeeding plan with your partner, family, and friends. Join support groups and set up the area where you will nurse your baby so you are ready... This supportive environment may help you breastfeed longer.

Becoming a parent

Your second pregnancy can bring a mix of excitement and familiarity, along with a few surprises. Even though you have been through pregnancy before, no two pregnancies are exactly the same. You may notice differences in your symptoms, your energy levels, and your emotional experience.

Your body may feel different

Many parents find that their second pregnancy shows earlier than their first. This is because your abdominal muscles and skin have already stretched once, making it easier for your bump to appear sooner. You may also experience pregnancy symptoms like fatigue or back discomfort earlier than before.

On the other hand, you may feel more confident in managing morning sickness, food cravings, and other common changes since you have experienced them before.

You might feel pregnancy symptoms more intensely or differently

Some people report that their second pregnancy symptoms are stronger, while others say they are milder. Factors like your age, your current health, and how much time has passed since your last pregnancy can all make a difference. Pay attention to how you feel and reach out to your healthcare provider if you notice anything unusual.

Caring for a child while pregnant can be challenging

One of the biggest differences in a second pregnancy is that you are also caring for your first child. This can make it harder to rest, schedule appointments, or take time for self-care. Asking for help from your partner, family, or friends can be especially important during this time.

If your first child is young, you may also want to think about preparing them for the arrival of a sibling with books, conversations, and gradual changes in their routine.

Labor and birth may be shorter

Many people find that labor with a second baby is faster because the body has already gone through the process once. While this can be a benefit, it also means you may have less time to get to your birthing location once labor starts. It can help to have a clear plan in place with your provider.

Your emotional experience may be different

Your second pregnancy may bring less uncertainty and more confidence. However, it can also feel different because your attention is divided between your first child and preparing for the new baby. Some parents feel a mix of excitement and worry about how family dynamics will change, which is completely normal.

Tips for a healthy second pregnancy

Keep up with prenatal vitamins and a balanced diet
Stay active with safe exercises like walking or swimming
Attend all prenatal appointments even if you feel experienced
Ask for support with childcare when you need rest
Prepare for labor earlier in case it moves quickly

Sometimes it's helpful to have a friendly face

Pacify experts are here to help you! Go to the home screen in your Pacify app to talk to a care specialist.