What To Expect During Your Second Trimester - Weeks 16 - 20
Your pregnancy is divided into 3 Trimesters. This page will show you what to expect during your second trimester during weeks 16 - 20.
Your Baby
Your baby starts a growth spurt in length and weight.
Hair begins to grow on the head and downy hair, called lanugo, begins to cover the baby's body. Eyebrows and eye lashes start to grow.
The skin start to fill out with fat.
The kidneys make urine.
Your baby enjoys moving about in the amniotic sac. You may feel the baby's movements by the end of week 20. The amniotic fluid increases.
This marks the midpoint in your pregnancy.
Baby will be about 10 in. long and weigh about 3/4 lb.
Your pregnancy is beginning to show. You may gain 3/4 to 1 lb a week. Your nipples, the area around them and the line on your abdomen will darken.
Your placenta releases hormones that help to soften some of your joints and muscles to make labor and delivery easier.
Your blood supply will increase from 3 1/2 quarts to 5 1/2 quarts by the end of your pregnancy.
You may be less tired.
You start enjoying your pregnancy.
You may be hungry more often, and you may feel cravings for some foods.
The chance of getting a urinary tract infection may increase. Drink 6 - 8 glasses of water each day.
Your uterus will be just below your navel by the end of week 20.
Your Responsibilities
What your baby looks like during weeks 16 - 20
Get a prenatal checkup.
Eat balanced meals with lots of fruits and vegetables. Take your prenatal vitamins and iron. Avoid caffeinated drinks, alcohol, cigarettes and drugs. Talk to a dietitian or nurse about cravings.
Get daily exercise. Work up to walking at least 1 mile. Learn and practice Kegel exercises (pelvic floor tightening) and pelvic rock exercises.
Lie down and put your feet up at least 30 minutes a day.
Choose comfortable clothes to fit your changing size.
Wear seat belt low over your hips.
Talk about what the baby will be like and about your new responsibilities with your partner.
Your Body