Physiology of pregnancy in the Second Trimester at a glance

Second Trimester

The second trimester of pregnancy begins at the 12th week and is generally considered a slightly smoother period. Here the development of organs such as external genitalia continues, and biological sex is created.

What size is the baby? 

At the 13th to 14th week the baby grows from 25 grams and reaches 190 grams.  It is at this stage that the most rapid development of the fetus begins. 

At 16 to 19 weeks another developmental leap causes the fetus to reach 500 grams and from the 20th to the 24th week it reaches 1 kg. 

At this stage, that is, from 16 to 24 weeks we expect the first noticeable movements of the baby! Now you need to start paying attention. See the chapter “fetal movements” for more information.

By the end of the second trimester your baby has a weight of 1900 grams! Almost 2 kg!

What to look out for

In this trimester most women feel much better than in the first. Nausea usually stops (although not always) and women begin to get used to pregnancy, and the so-called “glow” of pregnancy begins.

However, it is important to mention that not all women or pregnancies are the same. If the nausea continues this may be normal for you.

From the 24th week onwards, we consider the embryo viable. What does this mean? It means that if the baby was born now for whatever reason and was in the appropriate health facility with properly trained staff, it has an increased chance of survival!

Please join our pregnancy education classes here at Hera Family Care if you want more information like this!