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Second trimester week by week

Pregnancy: Second trimester week by week

Weeks 13-16

You: It's time to bask in the excitement of others when you tell them you're expecting (and the fact the sickness should start to ease off). Your heart is working harder to pump extra blood round your body, and you may feel breathless. But most women find the second trimester is the best bit.
Your bump: Your baby will be practising inhaling and exhaling and using her facial muscles. She's covered in a fine hair called lanugo.
Top tip: Studies suggest your baby can react to what she hears by around week 16. Try playing her your favourite songs.

Weeks 17-21

You: Your foetal anomaly scan will check your baby's development
and you may find out what sex it is if you choose to. Your skin may change at this time, so if it's usually dry it becomes oily, and vice versa.
Your bump: Her legs are getting longer and you may well feel those tiny fluttering kicks for the first time - a magical moment that's often mistaken for wind! She can suck, swallow and blink, and as her heart gets stronger her growth starts to slow. She's the size of a large banana.
Top tip: Your appetite might be increasing but remember, you don't need extra calories until the third trimester.

Weeks 22-26

You: Your breasts might start to leak colostrum - your baby's first food. It's quite normal, so don't worry. You might find that your hair is especially thick and glossy - bonus time!
Your bump: By the end of this month, your baby will be roughly 23cm long and perfectly formed (if a little scrawny). The lanugo thickens and darkens, her lungs are developing and her nostrils start to open.
Top tip: Snack on bananas to up potassium intake - leg cramps are common now and may be caused by a lack of potassium.

- Read what happens in the third trimester

Three reasons why you're not having sex
What to eat during your pregnancy
Foods to avoid

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Maria-Leigh, 8 months [Offensive? Unsuitable? Report this comment.]

i found out that i was pregnent about a week and already a had to go hospital. iv been getting alot of pain in my belly and don't think i should be getting the nurse thinks im about 8 weeks but i wont no untll i do a scain. i'm sceard and don't no what to do. Terry-anne i wouldnt worry yourself for now.the baby wont be bigneath yet to see it and stress wont do your baby any good. i be fine and you will be a great mum. but like i said try not to stress and when it gets to 12 weeks your no.

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