You have reached the 6th month of your pregnancy and you have gained around 15-16 pounds during this stage. If you have been following the tips, do’s and don’ts regarding your diet plan then you won’t gain excess weight during your pregnancy and enjoy being healthy and active during the entire pregnancy.

The size of the baby 
The baby resembles a corn during this stage.

Weight/height of the baby
The weight of the baby is around 1.32 pounds or 650 grams and the baby measures around 11.8 inches or 30cms.

About your baby
During this stage, the baby does not move at a consistent pace so don’t be worried regarding the movements of your baby. The baby can stay against your belly for a very long period around a day or multiple hours, however, if you can’t feel the movement of the baby for longer durations then you should definitely see your doctor. The baby stays in the upright position during this stage i.e. the head is away from the birth canal and cervix.

During the 24th week, all parts of the body have completed their development including the baby’s face. The skin of the baby becomes reddish and slightly wrinkled due to the absence of connective tissue. Till this stage, most of the organ systems of the body have completed their development while still there is time left for the differentiation of the central nervous system and respiratory system. The baby looks similar to the newborn but the fatty supplies of the baby are still growing. The baby gains around 4 ounces when compared to last week. The baby can recognize the sounds from the external environment, while the taste buds of the baby are still developing. The internal organs of the baby are in their functioning form especially spleen and liver.

About your body
The body of mom-to-be is slightly heavier when compared to the initial weeks. Most of the symptoms like morning sickness, nausea, fatigue, and others which you usually experienced during the first trimester are now over. However, your body is still in the changing phase as the hormonal levels are still in full swing.

You will feel abdominal pain along with the lower back pain which resembles the menstrual cramps. You might confuse these pains with contractions so keep in mind that contractions are generally rhythmic and appear at an interval of 10-15 minutes. Braxton’s hick’s contractions or false labor is generally experienced before true labor. Heartburn indigestion is also commonly experienced during this stage. You will feel slight discomfort and pain in the pelvic joints. Bloating, gas and constipation are also commonly experienced during this stage. You’ll also experience increased vaginal discharge with foul smell at this stage.

Do & Don’ts 
The bump of the mom-to-be starts increasing in size, it’s better to follow the basic tips during the second trimester:
• Wear belly bands which support your bulging bump
• Avoid wearing high heels to prevent swelling in feet and cramps in legs
• Try eating smaller and frequent meals to avoid heartburn
• Try to involve your partner in next appointments with doctors

Checklists 
• Prepare the nursery for your child
• Adjust your home during this period
• Buy some clothes for the baby
• Plan the postpartum childcare for your baby according to your joining date for work
• Consider taking a test for gestational diabetes, the best time to undergo screening for gestational diabetes is during the second trimester.

Enjoy your second trimester of pregnancy, take enough rest and start preparing for your child!

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