Pregnancy Guide

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Admin2025-11-18
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Second Trimester Golden Period: Weeks 13-28 Development Milestones ​

The second trimester is the golden stage of pregnancy, from week 13 to week 28. During this period, the early pregnancy reactions of the first trimester gradually disappear, the risk of miscarriage decreases, and the pregnant woman's physical strength and appetite will recover. It is the most comfortable stage of pregnancy.

Second Trimester Timeline ​

  • Weeks 13-16: Fetal Movement Emergence Period
  • Weeks 17-20: Anomaly Scan Period
  • Weeks 21-24: Rapid Fetal Development Period
  • Weeks 25-28: Preparation for Third Trimester

Fetal Development Process ​

Weeks 13-16: Fetal Movement Begins ​

  • Fetal length is about 10-12 cm, weight is about 50-80 g
  • Slight fetal movement begins to appear, mother may not feel it yet
  • Skin is still transparent, blood vessels are clearly visible
  • Nails and hair begin to grow
  • Reproductive organs are fully developed, gender can be identified by ultrasound

Weeks 17-20: Feeling Fetal Movement ​

  • Fetal length is about 20-25 cm, weight is about 250-300 g
  • Fetal movement is more obvious, mother can clearly feel it
  • Auditory system development is complete, can hear outside sounds
  • Fat begins to deposit under the skin
  • Swallows amniotic fluid, digestive system begins to work

Weeks 21-24: Rapid Development ​

  • Fetal length is about 25-30 cm, weight is about 500-600 g
  • Brain develops rapidly, sleep cycles appear
  • Lungs begin to develop, but function is not yet perfect
  • Eyebrows and eyelashes grow completely
  • Skin still has wrinkles, will gradually become fuller as fat increases

Weeks 25-28: Weight Gain ​

  • Fetal length is about 35-38 cm, weight is about 1000-1200 g
  • Weight increases rapidly, subcutaneous fat increases
  • Eyes can open, can perceive light
  • Respiratory movements are more regular
  • Cerebral cortex begins to develop, memory and learning abilities begin to form

Maternal Changes ​

Physical Changes ​

  • Abdomen bulges significantly, weight increases steadily
  • Fundal height is near the navel
  • Breasts continue to enlarge, colostrum secretion may occur
  • Stretch marks and pigmentation may appear on the skin
  • Breathing becomes short, easy to feel tired

Emotional Changes ​

  • Mood is relatively stable, energetic
  • Perception of fetal movement enhances mother-child connection
  • Start to prepare psychologically for childbirth
  • Libido may recover

Important Prenatal Checkup Items ​

Weeks 20-24 Anomaly Scan ​

  • Detailed examination of fetal organ structure
  • Rule out congenital malformations
  • Check placenta position and amniotic fluid volume
  • Monitor fetal growth and development

Weeks 24-28 Gestational Diabetes Screening ​

  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
  • Early detection and management of gestational diabetes
  • Formulate appropriate diet and exercise plans

Precautions ​

Diet and Nutrition ​

  • Increase protein and calcium intake
  • Supplement iron to prevent anemia
  • Moderately increase calorie intake
  • Maintain a balanced and diversified diet

Exercise and Health Care ​

  • Perform appropriate pregnancy exercises
  • Participate in prenatal yoga or swimming
  • Maintain good posture
  • Avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous exercise

Lifestyle ​

  • Ensure adequate sleep, left lateral position is best
  • Wear loose and comfortable clothing
  • Pay attention to breast care
  • Maintain emotional stability

Symptoms to Watch Out For ​

⚠️ Seek medical attention immediately if the following occur:

  • Fetal movement significantly decreases or disappears
  • Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
  • Severe headache or blurred vision
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Hypertension symptoms

Friendly Reminder: The second trimester is relatively comfortable, but regular prenatal checkups and careful care are still needed to prepare for a healthy delivery.