What Changes Will My Baby Go Through During The Second Trimester?

The second trimester of pregnancy, spanning weeks 13 to 27, is a period of rapid growth and remarkable development for your baby. Here’s a detailed look at the fascinating changes your baby will undergo during this time.

Early Second Trimester (Weeks 13-14)

In the early weeks of the second trimester, your baby begins to exhibit some remarkable behaviors and developments:

Movement: Your baby will start to flex arms and legs, and even kick, though you might not feel these movements just yet.
Thumb Sucking: Thumb sucking may begin, indicating early reflex development.
Meconium Formation: The baby starts forming meconium, which will become their first bowel movement after birth.
Mouth Development: By the end of week 14, the baby’s mouth is fully formed.

Mid Second Trimester (Weeks 15-19)

As the weeks progress, your baby continues to grow and develop new abilities:

Fist Formation: Your baby will be able to make a fist.
Light Sensitivity: The eyes become sensitive to light, despite being closed.
Facial Expressions: Your baby begins to make facial expressions.
Hearing Development: The baby’s hearing starts to develop, allowing them to react to loud noises.

Also read: Positive Pregnancy Test But No Pregnancy Symptoms – Will I Miscarry?

Late Second Trimester (Weeks 20-22)

In the latter half of the second trimester, significant growth and development continue:

Weight Gain: By week 20, your baby will weigh about half a pound, and by week 22, around one pound.
Lung Development: The lungs start to practice inflating and deflating, preparing for breathing after birth.
Sense of Balance: Your baby will develop a sense of balance, essential for future physical coordination.

Final Weeks of the Second Trimester (Weeks 23-27)

As the second trimester concludes, your baby undergoes more critical changes:

Further Weight Gain: By the end of the second trimester, your baby will weigh around 2 pounds.
Hand Formation: The hands are fully formed.
Eyebrows and Eyelashes: These features will be fully developed, although the eyes will remain closed for a few more weeks.
Survival Chances: If born at week 27, your baby has an 85% chance of survival, thanks to significant advancements in neonatal care.

Conclusion

The second trimester is a crucial period of growth and development for your baby. From movement and reflexes to sensory development and significant weight gain, these weeks are filled with exciting changes that prepare your baby for the outside world. Monitoring these milestones can provide reassurance and joy as you anticipate the arrival of your little one.

Also read: How Accurate Is An Ultrasound At Predicting Your Baby’s Gender