Second Trimester: Weeks 13 - 26

Following the first trimester is the second trimester, referring to the subsequent 13 weeks between week 13 and 26 of pregnancy. This stage of pregnancy primarily focuses on supporting the foetus's growth in both length and weight. Generally, the second trimester is considered to be easier than the first, as certain early symptoms tend to diminish or become less intense.

Visible Bump: It's common for women to start showing early in the second trimester. Women who have been pregnant before or are carrying twins may develop a baby bump earlier.

Breast Changes: The breasts continue to enlarge as oestrogen levels rise and milk ducts develop and begin to produce colostrum. Colostrum is the initial form of breast milk. This is also where some women may notice some breast milk leakage, characterised by a thick and yellowish discharge from the nipples.

Increased Energy: Many women experience more energy in the second trimester, as nausea and fatigue subside.

Vaginal Discharge: A sticky, clear, or milky white vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy, and it may become more noticeable as the pregnancy advances.

Urinary Tract Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one the most common pregnancy complications, with about half as many pregnant women diagnosed with it during their second trimester compared to the first. In addition to passing urine more often, UTIs can present in a burning feeling during urination and discoloured urine.

Skin Changes: A series of skin changes, such as stretch marks, acne, hyperpigmentation, linea nigra and glowing skin, can occur during pregnancy.

Dizziness: Dizziness can be triggered by lower blood pressure. Moreover, lower blood sugar levels or pressure on blood vessels from the growing uterus can also cause lightheadedness.

Swollen Gums: Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that induces redness and swelling. Pregnant women are more prone to gingivitis.

Nasal Congestion and Nosebleeds: Pregnancy rhinitis is a condition in which pregnant women experience a runny or stuffy nose. It affects about 1 in 5 women and happens when the mucous membranes lining the nose swell because of increased blood flow.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: Braxton Hicks contractions are false labour pains described as a tightening sensation across the abdominal muscles. While some women may not experience Braxton Hicks contractions at all, others may have them intermittently throughout pregnancy, even up until labour.

Third Trimester: Weeks 27 - 40

The third trimester marks the final phase of pregnancy, during which both the mother and foetus prepare for labour. Between 27 and 40 weeks, mothers may feel increasing discomfort as the baby grows bigger and heavier.

Shortness of Breath: The growing baby pressing against your uterus can make it more challenging to expand your lungs and breathe deeply. Additionally, the pregnancy hormone progesterone may speed up your breathing, leading to changes in your breathing patterns.

Swelling: Fluid builds up in areas such as the legs, ankles, and feet, particularly during the third trimester. This retention of fluids creates swelling and is known as oedema.

Varicose Veins: Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins beneath the skin's surface. They often appear during the second or third trimester and become more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses.

Lower Back and Hip Pain: As the baby develops, they may put increasing strain on the lower back and hips. The release of relaxin, a hormone that makes joints and ligaments more flexible during pregnancy, can sometimes contribute to sharp hip, groin or abdominal pain.

Increased Vaginal Discharge: The mucus plug is a thick glob of cervical mucus that prevents bacteria from entering the uterus. Close to labour, this plug might be expelled into the vagina, appearing clear or off-white in colour and accompanied by a small amount of blood.

Haemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids are common during pregnancy and may become more severe in the third trimester, potentially lasting up to one month after birth.

Difficulty Sleeping: Expectant mothers often experience trouble sleeping due to their growing bellies, more frequent urination, acid reflux and more.

Indigestion and Heartburn: Indigestion and heartburn are common symptoms of the third trimester, although they may occasionally present as early signs too. They are typically caused by hormonal changes that relax the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), and by the enlarged uterus exerting upward pressure on the stomach.

Leaking Colostrum: Although the breasts begin to undergo changes at the start of pregnancy, they typically start to leak colostrum only towards the end of the pregnancy.

Baby Dropping: When a foetus moves its head lower into the pelvis as labour approaches, this is referred to as 'dropping'. This is one of the final signs of pregnancy, signalling that the baby may be due in weeks or even hours.