In the second trimester of pregnancy a woman becomes more and more accustomed to the idea of ​​motherhood and becomes more confident in her ability to cope with the care of the child. Since the moment of childbirth is still far enough away, she is not particularly concerned about this. By the end of the 14th week, most of the complaints that arise at the beginning of pregnancy disappear. Morning nausea no longer bothers the woman, and often she feels a surge of energy. The mother usually looks healthy, the condition of her skin and hair is greatly improved. The level of hormones stabilizes, and the pregnant woman feels much more emotionally balanced and less vulnerable. This does not mean that from time to time there is no feeling of anxiety. Anxiety sometimes makes itself felt, especially during regular check-ups with a doctor.
Regular inspections
In the second trimester of a pregnant woman, it is usually suggested to undergo two ultrasound examinations. The first is conducted between the 11th and 13th weeks to clarify the duration of pregnancy and exclude the risk of Down's syndrome in the fetus. The second is administered between the 18th and 20th week to assess the size and development of the fetus. Women over 35 years old, as well as having cases of congenital anomalies in a family history, are offered to undergo amniocentesis to identify possible genetic diseases. During the first ultrasound, parents can find out that pregnancy is prolific. Such information is sometimes shocking and often causes concern to parents about the financial situation, childcare and delivery. They can also be informed that the fetus has developmental defects or genetic pathology - in this case it will be necessary to decide on the preservation or termination of pregnancy. Pathological research results are hard experienced by each pair. Perhaps they already had emotional contact with the fetus and, after experiencing the most difficult period - the first trimester, they are waiting for the birth of a viable child.
The impatient fathers
For fathers, who may have felt unnecessary in the early stages of pregnancy, a future child often becomes a reality at the moment when they see it for the first time on the screen of the ultrasound machine. In women, this contributes to an even stronger bond with the future baby, especially given that at this time they begin to feel the first stirring of the fetus.
Physical changes
Approximately at the 16th week of pregnancy, some women notice the appearance of hyperpigmentation of the skin. Nipples and the area around them may darken, and on the abdomen appears a dark line passing through the navel. At a period of about 18 weeks, the stomach begins to be rounded, and the waist line is smoothed. The degree of completeness of a woman during pregnancy depends on many factors, including height and physique. In addition, the change in shape is influenced by the fact that this pregnancy is accounted for, since the muscles of the uterus usually stretch after the birth of the first child. A woman can be disturbed by the changes that are taking place, and she needs the support of a partner more than ever before.
Sexual Activity
During this period, sex can give women a special pleasure, because in connection with the increase in the level of hormones, excitement comes much faster. It is during this period that some women experience orgasm for the first time. Many couples note that during pregnancy their sex life became more spontaneous without the need to take care of contraception. Partners can use the period of pregnancy to maximize their relationships, giving each other the same love that they are ready to surround the future child. However, other couples may have a fear of sexual contact because of fear of harming the baby. In this case, it is important that the partners find other ways of expressing love for each other.
Solving Family Problems
Pregnancy can be an appropriate time to solve family problems, especially concerning their own parents. This time can not be better suited to realize the wrong models of behavior and overcome them.
The decision to choose the method of birth
Most women undergo the first antenatal checkup between the 12th and 16th week of pregnancy. Then they visit the women's consultation at least once a month until the 28th week. Regular studies include measuring blood pressure, weighing with the registration of weight gain, listening to the heartbeat of the fetus. It is during this period that couples begin to make decisions about the method of delivery, the place of their holding (in a medical institution or at home), the use of anesthesia and the presence of close relatives at birth. Some fathers want to be present at the time of delivery.
Courses for future
Many couples who are preparing to become parents for the first time find it useful to attend specialized courses where they learn about the physiological aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, learn exercises to facilitate contractions and relaxation. Often this helps a woman get rid of many fears. Courses also give future parents the opportunity to get to know other couples and promote the establishment of social ties. New acquaintances can be useful for women during postnatal leave.
Preparation for the birth of a child
The end of the second trimester, when a woman feels full of energy, can be an ideal time to prepare for the birth of a child. A couple can arrange a room for a child and purchase clothes, bedding, toiletries and other items of care - the so-called dowry of a newborn. In the third trimester, a woman may feel too tired to solve these problems.
Making decisions
Some couples find that during pregnancy they are forced to listen to too much advice and criticism from relatives and friends. It is important that future parents make their own decisions, which they consider correct for themselves and for the child.