Common physical changes 12 to 28 weeks
The middle 12 weeks of pregnancy (from 12 to 28 weeks), is also known as the '2nd trimester'. This is the time a woman's belly begins to 'show' and it is often the phase of pregnancy that many women feel physically better, healthier and stronger within themselves (compared with the earlier weeks of pregnancy). As the weeks go on, most women begin to feel a sense of relief as their tiredness and/or morning sickness starts to settle down. Although around 15% of women will continue to feel nauseous or vomit up until, or perhaps even beyond, 20 weeks of the pregnancy. You can read more in
nausea or vomiting in late pregnancy.
You may notice your appetite returning and that certain food cravings start coming into their own (or change in preference to something else). Looking after yourself, eating healthy meals and being aware of good
nutrition still remains important for both you and your baby. As you start to feel more energised, others may comment on how you are 'glowing', with your skin, eyes and hair shining with good health. Many women will often resume (or begin) some
physical activity at this time, to support their changing body as well as help them physically prepare for the labour and birth.
Pregnant women usually feel warmer and sweat more than others who are not pregnant. This is due to an increase in the blood flow through the body as well as the pregnancy hormone progesterone making the tiny blood vessels in the skin (or 'capillaries') relax and dilate, becoming fuller and closer to the surface (often referred to as vasodilation). Vasodilation and increased metabolism slightly increases your body temperature. This often means you end up sleeping with only a sheet covering you, while your partner lies under blankets or a doona in the winter! You can read more in
skin, hair nails during pregnancy.
The 2nd trimester is also the time you will first feel your baby move.