Oh, the second trimester of pregnancy aka the honeymoon phase. Now I get why people call it that. Other than the baby kicking (lots!) there are times I forget I’m pregnant.

My body feels great, my nausea has subsided and I’m just starting to test out some of my new maternity clothes. However, the second trimester is not a honeymoon for everyone. It can also be the vacation from h#$& due to many common and unpleasant pregnancy symptoms. You don’t need to suffer in silence. As many of these symptoms will only get worse as your belly grows, I recommend seeking support sooner rather than later to try and get things under control. Below is a list of common second-trimester pregnancy concerns along with some tips to help you manage. 

Common Second Trimester Concerns

Constipation

Make friends with fibre! Lots of fruits and veg, chia pudding, ground flax and hydration. If you can tolerate gluten, a good old bowl of all-bran works like magic. 

Leg Swelling

Get moving! Exercise can help remove excess fluids from your legs and help with swelling. You can also get compression socks to help reduce swelling and help with blood flow. I got a prescription from my doctor and was fitted by the chiropractor at my clinic. 

Heartburn

This one sucks. I’ve had this a few times after big, spicy meals. It also tends to happen because I love to lay down and feel the baby kick after meals but then I feel the heartburn rising. Eat small frequent meals and avoid lying down after eating. Common trigger foods for heartburn include: coffee, tomatoes, citrus, orange juice, spicy food, greasy or fried foods. Tums is a safe OTC option for heartburn in pregnancy.

Low Back Pain

Oh, the aches and pains of pregnancy. Low back pain (LBP) is a common pregnancy complaint as the baby grows and ligaments and muscles get stretched out in all directions. Staying active, prenatal yoga and gaining appropriate amounts of weight during pregnancy can all help with the management of LBP. regular massage and chiropractor care with a health provider who is knowledgeable in treating pregnancy can also be very beneficial and safe during the second trimester. I’m super lucky to have a whole team of RMTs, chiros and pelvic floor physios at my fingers tips at my upper beaches clinic.

Pregnancy fears

Overwhelmed? Feeling unsure as a new parent? Dr. Google telling you a million different things that all conflict with the previous thing you read? Hire a doula. Think of a doula as a wedding planner for your pregnancy and birth. They are there to support you 24/7 and provide the guidance and care you need. I’ve signed up to take private prenatal classes with the incredible team at Helping Hands Doula and can’t wait to learn from them. Doulas offer a variety of packages and services, including post-partum support. This allows you to really tailor their services to your exact needs and unique situation. 

Need more support?

As always, we are here for you both virtually and in-person during these uncertain times. My services are available to anyone residing in Ontario.