Pregnancy
The Second Trimester: What to Expect from Weeks 13 to 27
The second trimester is often called the most comfortable stage of pregnancy — but it still brings significant physical and emotional changes. This guide covers what's actually happening and how to navigate it well.
Published:
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician or doctor about your child.
Aligned with AAP, WHO, NHS and CDC guidance.
See how we research and review →
Physical Changes in the Second Trimester
The second trimester brings a notable shift in how most pregnant women feel. Progesterone levels stabilise, the placenta takes over hormone production, and morning sickness typically resolves for most women by week 14-16. Energy levels usually improve significantly, making this the period when many women feel most functional and engaged with their pregnancy.
The uterus expands considerably between weeks 13 and 27 — moving out of the pelvic cavity into the abdomen by around week 16. This growth brings new physical sensations including round ligament pain (brief, sharp pain on the sides of the lower abdomen), Braxton Hicks contractions (irregular, painless uterine tightening from about week 20 onward), and visible belly growth. Blood volume increases by approximately 50% during pregnancy, which can cause dizziness, nasal congestion, and swelling in the feet and ankles.
Skin changes — darkening of the linea nigra, chloasma (pregnancy mask), and stretch marks — are also normal and hormone-driven. Breast growth continues, and many women experience the first fetal movements (quickening) during this trimester, typically between weeks 16 and 22 in a first pregnancy.
Key Appointments and Screening Tests
The second trimester includes important screening and monitoring appointments. The anatomy scan, typically at weeks 18-22, is the most detailed assessment of the baby's physical development during pregnancy. The glucose tolerance test, offered at weeks 24-28, screens for gestational diabetes, which affects approximately 5-10% of pregnancies and is manageable with dietary modification and, when needed, medication.
- Anatomy scan (weeks 18-22): Checks baby's structure, placental position, and amniotic fluid
- Glucose tolerance test (weeks 24-28): Screens for gestational diabetes
- Fetal movements from week 24: Track daily movement — report any reduction to your midwife immediately
- Blood pressure monitoring: Pre-eclampsia risk is tracked from mid-pregnancy
- Iron levels: Anaemia is common in pregnancy; blood tests check haemoglobin levels
Emotional Changes and Wellbeing
The second trimester often brings emotional relief — the higher-risk first trimester is behind you, and the anatomy scan can create a vivid sense of the baby as a real person. However, pregnancy anxiety doesn't automatically resolve at 13 weeks. Some women find the anatomy scan a significant source of anxiety. These feelings are valid and worth discussing with your midwife or GP — pregnancy anxiety is common and treatable.
This trimester is also when many couples begin birth preparation, research parenting options, and start practical preparations. Beginning these conversations with time to spare reduces the anxiety that builds when decisions are left to the third trimester.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the second trimester start and end?
The second trimester runs from week 13 to the end of week 27. Most women find it significantly more comfortable than the first — morning sickness typically subsides by weeks 12-14, energy improves, and the risk of miscarriage drops substantially after week 12.
When will I feel baby move for the first time?
First movements (quickening) are typically felt between weeks 16 and 22 in a first pregnancy, and as early as weeks 14-16 in subsequent pregnancies. Early movements feel like flutters, bubbles, or gentle taps. By weeks 24-28, movements become distinct kicks and rolls. If you haven't felt movement by week 24, inform your midwife or obstetrician.
Is it normal to have back pain in the second trimester?
Yes — back pain affects approximately 50-70% of pregnant women and commonly begins in the second trimester as the uterus grows and the body's centre of gravity shifts. Gentle exercise (swimming, prenatal yoga, walking), good posture, and pregnancy support belts can provide relief. Severe or worsening back pain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
What is the anatomy scan and when does it happen?
The anatomy scan typically takes place between weeks 18 and 22. It is a detailed ultrasound that checks the baby's physical development — brain, spine, heart, kidneys, limbs — and can identify many structural abnormalities. It also checks placental position and amniotic fluid levels, and can confirm fetal sex if desired.
Track Your Pregnancy with Whispie
Whispie helps parents track pregnancy milestones, prepare for baby's arrival, and get evidence-based guidance — free on iOS and Android.
Download Whispie Free →