What happens during the 2nd trimester?
During the second trimester of pregnancy, many women experience reduced nausea and fatigue compared to the first trimester. This period, spanning from weeks 13 to 27, is often referred to as the "golden period" of pregnancy due to increased energy levels and a decrease in some early pregnancy symptoms. Pregnant individuals may start to "show" more visibly as the baby grows, and they may feel the baby's first movements, known as quickening. Staying active with exercises suitable for pregnancy can help alleviate discomfort and prepare the body for childbirth.
Common symptoms experienced during the second trimester
Back pain
Round ligament pain
Stretch marks as the belly expands
Nasal congestion
Changes in skin pigmentation
Linea nigra
Heartburn and indigestion
Developments
During the second trimester of pregnancy, the fetus undergoes significant development. By week 14, the baby's kidneys begin to produce urine, and they can make facial expressions like frowning and squinting. Around week 18, the baby starts to hear sounds from the outside world, such as the mother's heartbeat and voice. By week 20, the baby's eyebrows and eyelashes have grown, and they can now swallow and even taste the amniotic fluid. The second trimester marks the period when the baby's movements become more pronounced and can be felt by the mother as quickening. This is also the time when many parents find out the sex of their baby through ultrasound. Maternal energy usually increases during this trimester, and any morning sickness tends to improve.
What is Relaxin?
Relaxin is a hormone produced by the corpus luteum in the ovary and the placenta that plays a crucial role in pregnancy. It helps to soften the cervix and pubic symphysis, allowing for easier childbirth. Relaxin also relaxes the uterine muscles to prevent contractions too early in pregnancy and may aid in the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterine lining.
Webster’s technique
Webster's Technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment used during pregnancy to address pelvic misalignment and improve sacral function. This technique focuses on reducing the effects of sacral subluxation/SI joint dysfunction, which can lead to intrauterine constraint. By restoring proper pelvic alignment, Webster's Technique aims to create a favorable environment for the baby to move into the optimal birthing position. Chiropractors trained in this technique perform gentle adjustments to help support easier, safer deliveries.
Please feel free to reach out to your Raleigh Chiropractor at Adapt Chiropractic if you have any questions or would like to explore how chiropractic care may fit into your overall wellness plan.
