The second trimester is often seen as the most comfortable stage of pregnancy. Many women notice that the morning sickness from the first trimester usually goes away, and they often feel more energetic with a visible baby bump. However, even though this phase can be easier, it still comes with its own set of pregnancy symptoms. In this guide, we’ll look at the most common symptoms in the second trimester, why they happen, and ways to ease them.
Common Symptoms in the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
What to Expect From Week 13 to Week 27
From week 13 to week 27, your foetus is growing rapidly. Your uterus is expanding, your placenta is fully functioning, and your body changes are becoming more noticeable. You may also start to feel your baby move, one of the most exciting early signs of connection to your baby.
Here’s a breakdown of second-trimester symptoms and what they might mean.
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As your baby grows, your abdomen and belly will get bigger, and you will begin to look noticeably pregnant. You might also notice stretch marks, itchiness, or sensitivity in the skin around your stomach and breasts.
Related symptoms:
Breast enlargement
Weight gain and visible changes in shape
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As your uterus stretches, you may feel short, sharp pain in your abdomen, especially when you change positions. This is often caused by the round ligaments that support your womb.
Also common:
Pelvic pain
Back pain
Discomfort when sleeping or walking
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Headaches and dizziness in the second trimester are fairly common but can feel intense when they occur.
These symptoms often stem from rising oestrogen, progesterone, and blood volume, which impact circulation and can lead to vascular tension. At the same time, dehydration and low blood sugar, especially if meals are skipped, can trigger or worsen symptoms. Some pregnant women may also develop anaemia, where low iron levels contribute to fatigue, dizziness, and recurring headaches. As the uterus grows, it can put pressure on blood vessels, particularly when lying on your back, causing temporary dips in circulation and light-headedness.
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Pregnancy brings about rising progesterone, which slows digestion and often leads to constipation, bloating, and heartburn. These symptoms typically become more noticeable around week 16, and can be exacerbated by foods like spicy or acidic meals.
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As you gain weight and your blood volume increases, it's common to have leg cramps, especially at night, and to notice varicose veins. These are typical symptoms during the second trimester of pregnancy. They aren’t harmful, but they can be uncomfortable.
Health sources say that leg cramps can happen to up to 50% of pregnant women. These cramps are often caused by involuntary muscle contractions in the calves, which can result from changes in blood flow, muscle fatigue, or imbalances in nutrients like calcium or magnesium.
At the same time, the hormone progesterone and the increase in blood volume can relax the walls of blood vessels and make the valves less effective, causing veins to expand and form varicose patterns, especially in the inner thighs and calves.
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You're likely to notice a gradual increase in vaginal discharge (also known as leukorrhea) during the second trimester. This is a completely normal and healthy response to rising oestrogen levels and increased blood flow to the pelvic area. The discharge is typically thin, milky white or clear, and odourless. Its job is to protect the uterus by helping keep the birth canal clean and reducing infection risks.
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Fatigue often gets better after the first trimester, but many women still feel very tired during this stage of pregnancy. This ongoing tiredness is completely understandable, you’re still growing a baby, and your body is under steady but gentle pressure.
Why It Happens:
Hormonal changes, especially the calming effect of progesterone, can affect energy levels and sleep patterns.
Your heart, blood volume, and placenta are all working harder to support your baby, which increases physical and metabolic demands.
Sleep quality may decrease because of vivid dreams, frequent urination, discomfort in your back or pelvis, heartburn, nasal congestion, or even restless leg syndrome.
A 2021 study of over 600 pregnant women found that when fatigue increases, overall sleep quality decreases significantly. This connection is important because poor sleep and fatigue can lead to risks like prolonged labour or postpartum mood issues.
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Pregnancy hormones like oestrogen and progesterone continue to rise during this trimester, and they can affect your mood more than you might think. While some women actually feel more stable and energised during this time, many also find themselves more easily brought to tears, whether from joy or frustration.
Other Common Pregnancy Symptoms in the Second Trimester
While the second trimester often brings relief from early pregnancy discomforts, it also comes with new and sometimes unexpected changes, many of which are completely normal as your body adapts to growing life.
Hair Growth: You might notice your hair feeling thicker, shinier, or growing faster than usual. This is thanks to hormonal shifts that prolong the hair growth cycle. Some women also see increased body hair on areas like the belly, face, or arms, all typically temporary.
Mild Sickness: Although morning sickness tends to ease after the first trimester, some pregnant women still experience occasional nausea, especially with certain smells or foods. It’s often milder and more manageable but still worth mentioning.
Weight Gain: Your body is actively supporting your baby’s development, which means gradual weight gain is expected. This includes the growth of your uterus, placenta, increased blood volume, and fluid retention. It's a healthy and essential part of the journey.
Changes in Sex Drive or Comfort: It’s common for your feelings about sex during pregnancy to change. Some women feel an increase in desire due to improved blood flow and fewer early symptoms, while others feel less comfortable due to physical changes, fatigue, or emotional shifts. Either experience is completely normal; open communication with your partner and listening to your body are key.