Het tweede trimester – De gouden maanden

The Second Trimester – The Golden Months

Mirthe Grooten

Welcome to the second trimester! This period is called the "golden phase" of pregnancy for a reason. Most initial ailments subside, your energy returns, and your belly begins to grow beautifully. This is the time to blossom, connect with your baby, and enjoy life to the fullest.

We will tell you what is happening in your body, how your baby is growing and what you can think about during this energetic phase of your pregnancy.

Your body: visible growth and new energy

Your body has adapted to the hormones and you will notice this in a positive way.

  • Energy boost: Extreme fatigue gives way to renewed vitality. Use this energy!

  • Less nausea: For most women, the nausea has disappeared. Finally, you can enjoy food again.

  • Your beautiful belly: Your pregnancy is now becoming visible to the world. Time to show off your bump and invest in comfortable maternity clothes.

  • The first kicks: Between weeks 16 and 22, you'll likely feel your baby's first movements—like little bubbles or soft pops. A magical and unforgettable moment.

  • The 'pregnancy glow': Thanks to improved blood circulation, your skin can glow and your hair can appear fuller.

  • New ailments: Unfortunately, new discomforts can also arise, such as heartburn, leg cramps or ligament pain: a stabbing pain caused by the stretching of the ligaments that support your uterus.

Also read: 'Tips for months 3 & 4' or 'Tips for months 5 & 6'

Your baby: a time of refinement and growth

Your baby is going through a huge growth spurt and all his senses are being sharpened.

  • Weeks 13-16: All organs are formed and starting to function. Your baby is practicing swallowing and breathing by moving amniotic fluid in and out of the lungs.

  • Weeks 17-20: Their senses are developing rapidly. Your baby can now hear! Talk, sing, and have your partner do the same; your baby will recognize your voices.

  • Weeks 21-27: The fetus is growing rapidly and becoming increasingly active. From 24 weeks, a baby is considered viable, meaning it has a chance of survival outside the womb, with intensive medical care.

Your action plan for the golden months

Use this energetic period to enjoy, connect and prepare calmly.

  1. Enjoy exercise: This is the ideal time to be active. Pregnancy yoga, swimming, and walking are perfect ways to stay fit and feel good.

  2. Make conscious contact: Take a moment each day to sit or lie quietly and focus on the movements in your belly. Place your hands on your belly and invite your partner to feel it.

  3. The 20-week ultrasound: An important moment. During this comprehensive medical ultrasound, your baby's health and development are carefully examined.

  4. Invest in comfort: Now that your belly is growing, it's time for well-supporting maternity lingerie and clothes that make you feel beautiful and comfortable.

  5. Start preparing: Use your energy to explore your options. Think about the nursery, make a baby checklist, and research the different types of childbirth classes. A digital planner is both sustainable and very useful!

  6. Plan a babymoon: If possible, plan a final vacation with your partner. A weekend getaway to relax and enjoy together before your world changes.

  7. Take care of your skin: Your skin stretches, which can lead to itching or stretch marks (tiny tears in the subcutaneous connective tissue). Apply a nourishing oil or cream to your stomach, breasts, and hips daily to keep your skin supple.

Are you already preparing for your own baby shower or gender reveal party? Then check out our selection of fun and original games!

Discover all Baby Shower Games here.

 The second trimester is a wonderful time to strengthen your bond with your baby and prepare for what's to come, all while feeling energetic and radiant. Embrace this phase to the fullest! Lots of love, My Sanctum.

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