Goodbye First Trimester – What’s Next?

You’ve made it through the first trimester, well done you! The exhaustion, the nausea, the constant Googling of “is this normal in early pregnancy?” It’s a whirlwind and now you’re officially in the second trimester.

This next chapter brings with it new changes, a (hopefully) more settled tummy and yes, the first fluttery signs that baby is really there.

Here’s what to expect now that you’ve said goodbye to the first trimester.

Baby in the Second Trimester

Over the next few weeks, your baby goes from tiny bean to real little human with fingerprints, kicking legs and even facial expressions.

By around Week 14, baby is about 8.5cm long and weighs around 40g, roughly the size of a peach. By Week 27, they’ll be about 36cm long and nearly 1kg in weight.

Here’s what else is happening:

Baby’s organs, muscles and nervous system are developing rapidly.
You may start to feel movements anytime between 16-24 weeks.
The placenta takes over hormone production, helping your symptoms ease up.
Baby starts to hear – yes, they can already tune into your voice!

Feeling a bit more connected to your growing baby is completely normal now and many parents find this trimester more enjoyable as energy returns and symptoms calm down.

Your Symptoms in the Second Trimester

Now that you’re through the thick of it, you might notice a welcome shift. Morning sickness tends to ease for most people by Week 14 (though not always) and the dreaded fatigue may start to lift.

That said, new symptoms often show up to keep things interesting:

Common Second Trimester Symptoms:

A boost in energy and appetite (enjoy it!)
Stretching or mild cramping as your uterus expands
Constipation and bloating (thanks, progesterone)
Congestion or nosebleeds
Round ligament pain (a sharp stab or dull ache low in the belly)
Sensitive gums or bleeding when brushing
An itchy or tight belly as your skin stretches

Tip: Now’s a great time to start moisturising daily with a bump-safe balm or oil to help support your skin as it stretches.

What To Do in the Second Trimester

With a bit more energy and a growing bump, now’s the perfect time to tick off a few key things before the third trimester rolls around.

Here’s your second trimester to-do list:

Book your 20-week anomaly scan (usually happens between 18–21 weeks)
Start antenatal classes – whether it’s hypnobirthing, breastfeeding prep, or understanding labour, this is the time
Think about maternity leave – work out your dates and tell your employer in writing before Week 25
Buy a few maternity clothes – stretchy waistbands are your friend
Begin a birth preferences plan – not a script but a guide to your wishes
Start pelvic floor exercises – early and often makes all the difference postpartum
Plan your support system – who’s in your village for after baby arrives?

Honest Midwife Thoughts

The second trimester can feel like a breath of fresh air—but it’s not all glowing skin and baby kicks. You might still feel tired, emotional, or unsure of what’s “normal.”

Totally valid.

Now’s a good time to connect with your midwife or GP if you have questions. No concern is too small and your team is there for exactly this.

You might also notice your identity shifting as pregnancy becomes more visible and real. Don’t be surprised if emotions bubble up, it’s a big transition.