The second trimester is often called the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy — and while your morning sickness may ease and energy might return, that doesn’t mean all the symptoms magically disappear. In fact, second trimester pregnancy symptoms come with their own set of surprises. As a fellow mom who’s been through it, here are the most common symptoms you might face during this stage — from feeling your baby move to unexpected aches, pains, and changes in your body.
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Growing Belly & Weight Gain
One of the most noticeable second trimester pregnancy symptoms is your growing belly! Around this time, weight gain tends to pick up as your baby (and your appetite) grows. You might also notice more stretching and pulling sensations as your body makes room. Talk with your trusted health care provider on what your target weight gain is each week (because you DO want to put on weight mama! So don’t be afraid of it!)
Tips: Stay hydrated, wear comfy clothes, and give yourself grace during this physical transformation.
Round Ligament Pain
That sudden, sharp pain in your lower belly or groin? That’s likely round ligament pain — a very common second trimester symptom as the ligaments supporting your uterus stretch to accommodate your growing baby. I pulled my right ligament in week 27 and it didn’t recover until after giving birth. Don’t be like me!
What helps: Slowing down when moving, light stretching, and using a belly band can all help ease discomfort.
Pregnancy Carpal Tunnel
Surprisingly, tingling or numbness in your hands and wrists is also among common second trimester pregnancy symptoms. It’s usually caused by swelling and fluid retention pressing on the nerves in your wrist. I had carpal tunnel in both hands – having numb fingers for several months was no fun!
Support tip: Try wearing wrist braces at night and avoiding repetitive motions during the day. Stay well-hydrated to lessen fluid retention. I also had my acupuncturist and chiropractor help me manage symptoms.
Skin Changes
From a glowing complexion to unexpected breakouts and dark patches (like melasma or linea nigra), hormonal shifts can bring a wide range of skin-related pregnancy symptoms.
Care tip: Use gentle, pregnancy-safe skincare products and wear SPF daily. My skin benefited from simplifying my routine: gentle cleanser, moisture serum, moisturizer, and spf daily and a physical exfoliant a couple times a week. That’s it!
Congestion & Nosebleeds
Many moms-to-be experience nasal congestion and occasional nosebleeds during the second trimester due to increased blood volume and swelling in the nasal passages. I had a congested nose throughout almost my whole pregnancy. It completely cleared within a couple days after birth.
Simple relief: Use a humidifier, drink plenty of water, and try saline spray if needed.
Bleeding Gums
Thanks to increased blood flow and hormonal changes, bleeding gums are another one of those sneaky second trimester pregnancy symptoms.
Dental care: Continue brushing and flossing gently, and visit your dentist for a cleaning at least once but preferably twice Just let them know you’re expecting so you can skip the x-rays and fluoride!
Yeast Infections
Unfortunately, hormonal changes during pregnancy can make yeast infections more common. Itching, irritation, or unusual discharge? Don’t wait — call your doctor. There are safe treatment options available.
Tips: I had a yeast infection three times. The prevention tips that finally worked for me were changing underwear immediately after sweating (or skippimg underwear altogether), blow drying down there after showers, adding in a vaginal flora specific probiotic, and decreasing simple carbs and sugars (yeast thrive off carbs). Talk to your trusted practitioner before taking anything new!
Feeling Baby Move
One of the most exciting second trimester milestones is feeling your baby move for the first time! These early flutters (often felt between 16–22 weeks) can feel like bubbles or soft taps — and they’re a beautiful reminder of the life growing inside you.
Cherish it: This is often the beginning of a special bond.
Final Thoughts on Second Trimester Pregnancy Symptoms
While the second trimester can feel like a breath of fresh air after the challenges of the first, it’s important to remember that every stage of pregnancy brings new experiences. From round ligament pain to baby kicks and skin changes, second trimester pregnancy symptoms are real, normal, and totally valid.
Be kind to yourself, rest when you can, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your care provider if anything feels off. You’re doing an amazing job, mama. It’ll all be worth it!
