Second trimester pregnancy: tips for a healthy and comfortable 12–24 weeks

Ah, the second trimester! For many women, it’s a time when they start feeling better – there’s far less nausea and anxiety, and far more energy and excitement for what’s to come. Plus, the pregnancy glow is starting to reveal itself.

“The second trimester is often called the ‘honeymoon phase’ of pregnancy,” says Dr Geraldine Jahn, an obstetrician and gynaecologist based in Pretoria. “Common physical changes include a growing belly, weight gain, skin pigmentation changes (like a dark line on the tummy called the linea nigra), breast enlargement and a visible ‘pregnancy glow’.” 

If you’ve been receiving compliments on how your hair looks fuller or shinier, there’s a reason for that! “Thanks to rising oestrogen levels, hair tends to stay in the growth phase longer during pregnancy. This means less hair falls out, giving the appearance of fuller, shinier hair,” says Dr Jahn. Enjoy this magic mane while it lasts, as Dr Jahn says this change in the hair’s appearance is often temporary and usually reverses after birth when hormone levels return to normal.

There are, however, ways to make the most of your health and wellbeing, during pregnancy and beyond…

Maximising the pregnancy glow

Dr Jahn says that the second trimester is a great time to focus on a healthy lifestyle:

• Switch up your skincare: “Switch to gentle, pregnancy-safe products. Avoid retinoids and high-dose salicylic acid. Moisturise to help with stretch marks and itching.”

• Exercise regularly: “Low-impact activities like walking, swimming and prenatal yoga can boost circulation, ease aches and support mental wellbeing.”

• Focus on a healthy diet: “Eat a variety of whole foods rich in iron, calcium and protein. Stay hydrated and continue taking prenatal vitamins.”

• Sleep well: “Start sleeping on your side (preferably the left) to improve blood flow to your baby.”

How to handle the not-so-nice parts of the second trimester

You’ve heard about the effects a growing baby can have on your physical appearance, and you’ll soon start to notice these changes in your own body. Thankfully, there are ways to ensure you’re comfortable through the changes to come. 

Here, Dr Jahn shares her tips on staying comfortable despite: 

• Swollen feet and/or ankles: “Elevate your legs, when possible, stay hydrated, avoid standing for long periods, wear comfortable shoes, and try gentle foot exercises,” says Dr Jahn. Add a pair of compression stockings to your next shopping list as these can also help with swollen legs, feet and ankles. 

• Back and/or hip pain: It’s something most pregnant women will experience and, fortunately, there are ways to ease the pain. “Use a pregnancy pillow for support, maintain good posture, wear supportive shoes and do prenatal stretches or yoga,” says Dr Jahn. “A warm (not hot) bath or heat pack can provide relief, but persistent pain should be discussed with your doctor.”

• Sensitive gums: “Oral hygiene is very important during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation or bleeding (known as pregnancy gingivitis). Poor oral health is also linked to complications like preterm birth,” says Dr Jahn. It’s safe to visit the dentist when you’re pregnant – just notify them of your pregnancy beforehand. It’s also essential to keep brushing your teeth twice a day and to floss daily.

Which symptoms require medical attention? 

Of course, the road to having a baby isn’t always smooth and when something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to see your gynaecologist. These are the signs and symptoms to look out for, say Dr Jahn:

• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Bleeding or unusual discharge
• Severe swelling, especially in the face or hands
• Sudden weight gain or headaches (possible signs of preeclampsia)
• Painful urination or fever
• Noticeably decreased foetal movements later in the trimester. 

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