Pregnancy questions: stomach pains and weight gain

Common pregnancy worries | Stomach pains and weight gain | Questions during pregnancy | Second trimester

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Here, Angela Horler, an antenatal teacher for the National Childbirth Trust and an independent midwife answers some of the most common questions throughout your second trimester.

13. I'm about half-way through my pregnancy and I'm getting pains on each side of my bump. Is this anything to worry about?

As your baby grows, the uterus also grows and stretches to accommodate the baby. The pain that you're feeling is a normal pregnancy ache and is due to the broad ligaments (which hold the uterus in place) stretching and growing to support the weight of the uterus. If the pain becomes very intense or you have more concerns speak to your midwife.

14. I think I'm putting on too much weight and people say my bump is huge. How do I tell if it's normal?

Just as each pregnancy is unique, so is each bump! The size of the bump is not really an indicator for the size of your baby - the position of the baby, how much fluid is around the baby and how many babies you have had before can all affect the bump size.

Women gain on average 12kg (28lbs) during pregnancy and this is very normal. The more weight you gain, the more you need to shift after - so you really don't need to eat for two.

You only need around an extra 200 calories per day (think of that as a healthy sandwich) during the last trimester. If you are still concerned about the size of your baby speak to your midwife.

15. I think my bump is too small. How do I tell if it's normal?

Again, each pregnancy is unique and so is each bump. If you are worried about the growth of the baby then speak to your midwife - she can ensure your baby is growing well or will be able to refer you to a consultant obstetrician if there are any concerns.