After the fatigue, nausea, and mood swings of the first trimester — welcome to the second trimester!
Many moms call it the “honeymoon period” — and the name is apt. Energy returns, morning sickness is mostly gone, and your baby bump is starting to grow. This is the time of pregnancy when you really start to enjoy it!
The second trimester also brings some new symptoms, some important milestones, and baby’s growth is so fast it’s mind-boggling.
Today, I’ll give you a sneak peek from week 13 to week 26 — symptoms, baby’s development, and what to expect.
Second Quarter Review
Duration: Week 13 to Week 26 (approximately 3 months)
What time is it happening:
- Morning sickness is getting better (mostly)
- Energy levels are improving.
- The baby bump is clearly visible and has started to appear.
- The baby’s movements feel like they’re starting to happen — “They’re getting faster!”
- Anatomy scan (most importantly ultrasound)
- Gender reveal is possible!
Week 13-14 — Relief after the first trimester!
Baby is now about the size of a peach — and the first trimester is officially over!
Child development
- Baby’s fingerprints are created — no one in the world will have the same ones!
- The vocal cords are on their way.
- It stimulates the liver to produce bile.
- Baby’s eyes are moving from side to side of the head.
Mother’s symptoms
Energy back! More mamas I feel dramatically better at weeks 13-14 — this is the biggest gift of the second trimester!
Improved nausea: HCG levels are at their lowest — nausea is much better or gone completely.
Baby bump showing: A little bit in the first mama, more in the second mama.
Round ligament pain: Sharp, shooting pain in the sides or lower abdomen — the uterine ligaments are stretching. Triggered by sudden movement. Common!
Increased appetite: After the nausea — it feels great! This is a good sign.
Week 15-16 — The child begins to sing!
Baby is now about the size of an apple.
Child development
- Baby’s ears are developed — now he can start detecting sounds!
- The skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to hard bone.
- Baby is swallowing amniotic fluid – a digestive exercise!
- Eyebrows or eyelashes grow.
Mother’s symptoms
Skin Changes:
- Linea nigra – a dark line that runs down from the navel – common and harmless
- Chloasma (mask of pregnancy) – dark spots on the face – worsened by sun exposure, use SPF
- Skin glow — blood volume increase se!
Nasal congestion: Pregnancy rhinitis – hormones worsen blood flow in the nasal passages – stuffy nose very common!
Nosebleeds: Same reason — the blood vessels in the nose are more sensitive. Normal but annoying!
Back pain: The uterus is growing — posture is changing — lower back pain may occur.
Week 17-18 — Feeling the baby for the first time!
These are the snacks that are most mothers’ favorites!
Child development
- The baby’s fat layers are producing sweat – this will regulate body temperature in the wind.
- Myelin (the covering of nerves) is formed – the brain sends signals faster.
- Baby can now yawn and stretch.
- The baby changes position frequently.
Mother’s symptoms
Kicking — feeling movement for the first time! Around weeks 17-18 — especially in second-time moms — baby movement is felt for the first time! Fluttering, bubbling, or butterfly-like sensation.
First-time moms feel it from weeks 18-25.
Heartburn: Progesterone relaxes the digestive tract – stomach acid can back up into the esophagus. A common complaint of the second trimester!
Leg cramps: especially at night – calcium and magnesium needs increase. Stretching and proper hydration help.
Week 18-20 – Anatomy Scan! The most important ultrasound!
These are the moments every mother eagerly awaits!
Anatomy Scan (Level 2 Ultrasound)
What is checked:
- Baby’s head, brain, face
- Heart – All 4 Chambers
- Embankment
- Stomach, kidneys, bladder
- Arms, legs, hands, feet
- Placenta position
- Amniotic fluid level
- Baby size and development
How long it takes: About 30-45 minutes
What it reveals: Baby’s gender – if you want to know!
Child development
- The baby’s lips are clearly defined.
- Eyebrows and eyelashes look fine.
- Baby’s heart rate 140-160 beats per minute
- The baby is now swallowing and practicing breathing.
Mother’s symptoms
Visible baby bump: You’re officially “halfway there” at week 20 — and the bump is clearly showing!
Belly button changes: Some moms’ belly buttons “pop out” — temporarily restricting movement.
Vaginal discharge: A milky white discharge (leucorrhea) may increase — normal and protective.
Week 21-22 — Baby is starting to play actively!
Baby is now about the size of a banana!
Child development
- Baby’s taste buds are fully developed.
- Baby can taste amniotic fluid – what you eat!
- Progress is being made in the sleep cycle.
- The baby’s grip strength has increased so much that he can hold the umbilical cord.
Mother’s symptoms
Strong kicks: Baby’s movements are “kicking” properly — your partner can feel them too!
Varicose veins: Veins in the legs are visible and can be painful — due to changes in circulation.
Hemorrhoids: Remember, progesterone slows down the digestive system — constipation and hemorrhoids are common in the second trimester!
Shortness of breath: The uterus is starting to put some pressure on the lungs — this will increase in the third trimester
Week 23-24 — Baby is “viable”!
This is an important medical milestone.
Child development
At week 24, the baby is considered “viable” – meaning that if born prematurely, it can survive with intensive medical care.
- The baby’s lungs are practicing breathing.
- The ear bones are fully developed—the baby can hear sounds clearly.
- The baby’s skin is still transparent – you can see through the blood vessels.
- Baby now responds to familiar voices.
Mother’s symptoms
Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are “practice contractions” – the uterus is practicing for delivery. Irregular, painless or light. Real contractions follow!
Real vs. Braxton Hicks:
- Braxton Hicks: irregular, better with position changes, lighter
- True contractions: regular, intense, stronger over time
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD): Pain in the pelvic area — felt when walking up stairs. Physiotherapy can help.
Week 25-26 — The second quarter is coming to an end!
Baby is now about the size of an acorn squash!
Child development
- Baby’s eyes open for the first time – at week 26!
- Baby enters REM sleep – dreaming!
- The brain is growing rapidly – this will happen even faster in the third trimester.
- The baby’s immune system is developing — antibodies are being transferred from the mother.
Mother’s symptoms
Back pain: The uterus is growing — the center of gravity is changing — back pain is common.
Swelling (edema): Mild swelling in the hands, feet, ankles — normal. Sudden severe swelling — call the doctor (may be a sign of preeclampsia)
Carpal tunnel: Numbness or tingling in the wrists — from fluid retention. Common pregnancy symptoms!
Stretch marks: On the stomach, breasts, buttocks — these fade after birth but do not go away completely.
Important tests of the second trimester
Glucose challenge test (weeks 24-28)
Gestational diabetes screen – glucose drink, 1-hour blood test.
Anatomy scan (weeks 18-20)
Detailed ultrasound (discussed above).
Irregularity screening blood tests
To screen for certain chromosomal conditions.
Rh factor injection
If Rh negative – injection around week 28.
What to do in the second trimester – To-do list
✅ Anatomy Scan Book Crane – Weeks 18-20 ✅ Maternity Clothes – It’s Time! ✅ Childbirth Classes Research Crane ✅ Start thinking about the baby’s name ✅ Start planning the nursery ✅ Keep exercising – prenatal yoga, swimming, walking ✅ Keep eating iron-rich foods – anemia is common in the second trimester
When should you call the doctor?
🚨 Immediately:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe stomach pain
- The baby’s movements suddenly stop completely.
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Vision changes
- Sudden severe swelling (face, hands)
- Signs of preterm labor (regular contractions before week 37)
Quick Reference — Week by Week Summary
| Week | Baby | Mother |
|---|---|---|
| 13-14 | Fingerprints, vocal cords | Energy wapas, nausea improved |
| 15-16 | Hearing is increasing, bones are hardening. | Skin changes, nasal congestion |
| 17-18 | Fat layer, yawning | Speed up! Heartburn, leg pain |
| 18-20 | Lips, eyebrows are defined. | Anatomy scan, the bump is clearly visible. |
| 21-22 | Full of taste buds, strong grip | Strong kicks, varicose veins. |
| 23-24 | Actionable! Phephere Practice | Braxton Hicks, SPD possible. |
| 25-26 | Open eyes, REM sleep, dreams! | Back pain, swelling, carpal tunnel |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the second trimester start to feel better? Expectant mothers have seen dramatic improvements around 13-14 weeks — nausea, increased energy. This “honeymoon period” is real!
Q: What happens if something abnormal comes up on an anatomy scan? The doctor will explain what was found — some results are harmless, some need further testing. Most anatomy scans are normal. Worried about contractions — this test is also for reassurance!
Q: How do you tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and true contractions? Braxton Hicks: Irregular, better with changing positions or resting. True: Regular, stronger over time, doesn’t stop with position. If unsure — call your doctor.
Q: Is exercise safe in the second trimester? Absolutely – moderate exercise is highly recommended. Prenatal yoga, walking, swimming are great options. Contact sports, avoid heavy lifting.
Q: How do you avoid stretch marks? It’s hard to avoid completely – genetics play a major role. Moisturizers, coconut oil, vitamin E oil keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching. Stretch marks fade in no time!
The last thing
The second trimester – This is the part of pregnancy that many moms love the most. The energy is gone, the nausea is gone, and that first kick – it all happens here.
That moment of the anatomy scan – the baby’s incision on the screen, the heartbeat, the tiny hands and feet – this moment is the most magical moment of pregnancy for many moms.
Enjoy it – this time goes by quickly. The baby grows, the bump gets bigger, and the third trimester – and then the baby himself – is coming.
We do this at Little Heartbeat – to help you enjoy this little journey. 🌸
What was your favorite memory of the second trimester? Let us know in the comments! And follow our TikTok for more amazing facts like this every day!
This article is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for any symptoms or concerns.
