This week, your baby still only measures around 5,5 centimeters, but is growing fast and strong. You’ve now reached the 2nd trimester, which is often called the honeymoon phase of the pregnancy.
Growth Spurt
Most of the important parts of your baby are now developed, but the baby is still not viable outside of your body; in the beginning of week 12 of your pregnancy, your baby is only around 5,5 cm and weighs app. 24 grams. The nervous system is not developed enough, and neither are the internal organs. But don’t worry, your little one is growing fast!
Welcome to the 2nd trimester!
The 2nd trimester is often referred to as the “honeymoon” phase of the pregnancy, since the 2nd trimester often sees the end (or at least a minimum) of morning sickness and hormone fluctuations, so many women feel energized and more comfortable in their bodies and with their pregnancy.
As your uterus grows, you might start to feel a bit of aching in the pelvic area, since the ligaments holding your uterus will stretch, but it’s harmless. You might also start to feel your skin stretch, especially around your stomach and your breasts, which can cause mild itching; a great body oil or body lotion can help ease the itching a bit.
But all in all, the 2nd trimester is a wonderful time. You will probably start to gain more weight through the coming weeks, but you can still move around and sleep relatively unhindered at this point; enjoy it and stay active with walking and swimming.
Relax and enjoy your body
The 2nd trimester of your pregnancy is also called the honeymoon period because the risk of miscarriage lowers substantially; Studies show that after the 1st trimester the risk of miscarriage drops to between 0.5% and 3%. So, most women feel more relaxed and secure in their pregnancy at this point, and many expecting parents choose to tell family, friends and coworkers around this time.
Also, don’t be surprised if you feel an increased drive for intimacy kicking in during the 2nd trimester. There are a few reasons for this:
- Remember that increased blood flow we told you about earlier? Well, that also affects other… more intimate areas of your body.
- As your nausea decreases and your hormones level out, you will generally feel more comfortable in your body and have more energy.
- Many women find the changes in their bodies caused by pregnancy to be liberating; stop worrying about extra weight, embrace your curves!