Welcome to your second trimester. Many women feel that this trimester is the golden time of pregnancy – your morning sickness often subsides, and your belly isn’t uncomfortably large at this point. You are smack in the middle of your pregnancy and are in a good spot.
Your baby is starting to develop facial features and may be able to make a fist with her tiny little hand.
In this article, we are going to help guide you through your fourth month of pregnancy.
IN THIS ARTICLE
- What to expect from an ultrasound.
- Which symptoms will I feel at this point in my pregnancy?
- How big will my belly be at this stage of my pregnancy?
- How big is my baby right now?
- Shopping List
- Homework for this month
What to expect from an ultrasound.
Unless there is a specific reason, most women do not have an ultrasound during the 4th month of pregnancy. If not having an ultrasound makes you nervous, just know that your risk of miscarriage decreases substantially once you enter your second trimester. Keep in mind that if there is any concern about your health or your baby’s health, your health care provider will let you know. Leave the worrying to the professionals. Your job is to enjoy the process.
Which symptoms will I feel at this point in my pregnancy?
Hopefully, you are feeling fewer unwelcomed symptoms than you were a few weeks ago and are feeling more energized.
Some symptoms you may experience include:
- Round ligament pain that feels sharp on one or both sides of the abdomen as your ligaments stretch to support your growing uterus.
- Bloody and/or runny nose
- Shortness of breath as your belly gets bigger
- Increased sex drive-we promise, intercourse won’t hurt the baby
- Oily skin
- Constipation
- A pregnancy “glow”
How big will my belly be at this stage of my pregnancy?
Hello there, baby bump! You have likely popped at this stage of pregnancy and there is no doubt that you are pregnant to an outsider. If you haven’t gotten your bump yet, don’t fret. Every body grows at different stages and paces.
It may be time to hit the maternity store and learn all about the secrets of elastic waists and bunched shirts. Many women can also get away with buying non-maternity clothes and simply going up one size. It’s all up to what you feel comfortable in.
How big is my baby right now?
The average 15-week fetus weighs 2.5 ounces and measures 4 inches. She is likely the size of a peach at this point.
Shopping List
As your belly starts to grow, you may want to invest in some organic coconut oil to help keep your skin moisturized and hopefully prevent any ich that may occur.
If you are experiencing a runny nose that just won’t quit, buy yourself an extra pillow so you can sleep more elevated. The elevation may give you some relief.
A nice maxi dress is a perfect throw-on outfit if you aren’t quite ready to buy maternity clothes but need the extra space in the front.
Homework for this month
Start thinking about your baby shower if you are having one. Have an idea of what you want.
Schedule your amniocentesis if you are having one
Announce your pregnancy if you haven’t already. Make sure to tell people who would be offended if they heard you are expecting from a third party (like your grandparent)
Invest in a water bottle (like Swell). As your belly gets bigger, your fluid needs will increase, and you want to make sure you are staying hydrated at all times.
As you enter your second trimester, self-care should be prioritized. If you are feeling well, exercise in accordance with your health care provider’s recommendations, connect with your friends, and make sure you are eating a variety of healthy food.
