The second trimester of pregnancy (weeks 14 to 27) is an exciting time, but it also brings new changes and symptoms. As your body and pregnancy progress, it’s important to monitor factors like your blood pressure, as even a slight elevation can be an early sign of preeclampsia. You should also watch for signs of conditions such as Diastasis Recti. Staying on top of these changes helps ensure a healthy pregnancy and prepares you for the stages ahead. Let’s take a closer look at common second trimester symptoms and considerations to help you navigate this stage with confidence.
Diastasis Recti in the Second Trimester
During the second trimester of pregnancy, it’s important to monitor for Diastasis Recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles begin to separate due to the growing uterus. The following are signs of Diastasis Recti to look for:
- Noticeable bulging along the midline of your abdomen when getting off the couch or out of bed.
- Your belly button starts to protrude.
- A pulling sensation in the abdominal area when engaging your core, such as during certain activities or exercises.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to modify your movements. It’s highly recommended to consult with a pelvic floor physical therapist to learn preventive techniques that can help you manage Diastasis Recti and avoid further complications. Proper pelvic floor strengthening can support the abdominal muscles and reduce the risk of worsening the condition.
Is It Safe to Exercise in the Second Trimester?
Exercise during the second trimester is generally safe and beneficial, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
One key concern is exercising in a supine position (lying on your back). As your baby grows, this position can compress the inferior vena cava, leading to decreased blood flow to the fetus. If you experience nausea, dizziness, or trouble breathing while lying on your back, it’s best to avoid this position and modify your workouts accordingly. It’s important to listen to your body and err on the side of caution.
Recognizing Emergency Symptoms in the Second Trimester
While the second trimester is often considered the “golden period” of pregnancy, it’s still crucial to monitor for emergency symptoms. If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Bleeding
- Severe dizziness
- Rapid weight gain or inadequate weight gain
- Jaundice
- Vomiting or excessive sweating
These could be signs of serious pregnancy complications that require immediate medical evaluation.
Changes and Symptoms Commonly Experienced in the Second Trimester
The second trimester brings various physical changes and symptoms. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare for the journey ahead. Some common experiences include:
- Appetite may increase as the body adjusts to support the growing baby.
- Around 20 weeks, you may be able to feel the movement of the fetus for the first time, a phenomenon known as quickening.
- The uterus grows to the height of the belly button around 20 weeks, making the pregnancy visible.
- The skin on the belly may itch as it grows, and you may experience pain down the sides of the body as the uterus stretches. The lower stomach may ache as ligaments stretch to support the uterus.
- The need to urinate often may decrease as the uterus grows out of the pelvic cavity, relieving pressure on the bladder.
- Your nose may become congested, and your gums may become spongier and bleed easily. This is due to the increase in hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and blood flow that affect the mucous membranes and blood vessels.
- Varicose veins and hemorrhoids may appear.
- You may notice a white-colored vaginal discharge called leukorrhea.
- The increasing weight gain may cause backaches.
- Skin pigmentation may change on the face or abdomen due to pregnancy hormones.
Pregnancy brings many physical changes, so it’s important to stay informed and monitor your body. Whether it’s tracking blood pressure, managing Diastasis Recti, or adjusting exercise routines, staying proactive can help ensure a healthy pregnancy. If you’d like additional guidance or to learn more about managing Diastasis Recti, a pelvic floor physical therapist can provide valuable support during this stage.
Innovative Physical Therapy, “Solutions in Motion”
Innovative Physical Therapy is a state-of-the-art practice located in Mission Valley, San Diego. With over 30 years of experience, we provide individualized care tailored to your unique needs. Our skilled therapists utilize manual therapy techniques and movement analysis to identify the root causes of your issues, enabling us to develop effective treatment plans for immediate symptom relief and long-term health.