The 2nd Trimester Survival Guide: What to Expect and How to Prepare
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The second trimester — weeks 13 to 27 — is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. The nausea is easing, your bump is showing, and energy levels are (usually) on the rise.
But that doesn’t mean it’s all smooth sailing! In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect in the second trimester, how to stay comfortable, and which essentials will help you thrive.
📅 What Happens in the Second Trimester?
Your body is working overtime as your baby starts to grow rapidly. Here's what you may notice:
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Bump begins to show – time to break out the maternity wear!
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Energy boost – take advantage to prep for baby or enjoy a babymoon
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Backaches and round ligament pain
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Skin changes – like the linea nigra or pregnancy glow
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Kicks and flutters – you may feel baby move for the first time!
| Symptom | What’s Going On | What Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Back pain | Your body’s adjusting to baby’s growth | Try a Maternity Support Belt |
| Heartburn | Hormones relax your digestive system | Eat smaller meals, stay upright after eating |
| Constipation | Slower digestion during pregnancy | Stay hydrated + eat fibre-rich foods |
| Sleep issues | Discomfort increases at night | Use a Pregnancy Pillow link for better support |
🛍️ Must-Have Second Trimester Products
Here are a few second-trimester essentials to make life easier:
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Maternity Leggings – super comfy for growing bumps
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Stretch Mark Cream – hydrate and support your skin
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Bump-Friendly Bras – wire-free comfort is key
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Foot Massager – helps with swelling and tired feet
🩺 Medical Appointments to Expect
During your second trimester, you’ll likely have:
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Midwife appointments – every 4 weeks or as advised
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20-week anatomy scan – a detailed look at baby’s growth
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Blood tests and urine checks – for anaemia, infections, and more
Stay on top of your appointments by keeping a printed or digital schedule.
💡 Tips for Feeling Your Best
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💧 Drink plenty of water (aim for 2L a day)
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🧘 Gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga
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😴 Rest when you can — don’t feel guilty!
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🍓 Eat small, balanced meals to maintain energy
📦 What to Start Preparing Now
Use your energy boost to get ahead on prep:
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🍼 Start researching baby gear — prams, cribs, monitors
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📚 Take a prenatal class (online or in person)
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🧳 Begin your hospital bag checklist — yes, already!
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💼 Let your employer know your due date & start maternity leave planning
🧘 Final Thoughts
The second trimester brings exciting milestones, more energy, and plenty of physical changes. Stay informed, stock up on essentials, and start gently preparing for the months ahead.
And remember — every pregnancy is different. Listen to your body and don’t hesitate to speak to your midwife if anything feels off.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your GP or midwife for personalised guidance during your pregnancy.