Changes In The Second Month Of Pregnancy

The second month of pregnancy is one of the most crucial in your baby’s development. There are many changes in the embryo this month. The heart is beating. The heartbeat can be seen on an ultrasound this month. The major organs are beginning to form this month, such as the brain, lungs, stomach and liver.

The embryo is getting closer to looking like a real baby. The head and trunk can be seen this month. You won’t be able to tell if the baby is male or female for quite some time. Tiny arm buds begin to form this month and hands and feet will be developing by the end of this month.  

Facial features will begin to develop on the head, but won’t resemble a new baby for quite some time yet. Eyes are forming, the eyelids are sealed shut. The eyes are large and are widely spaced. The inner ear is beginning to form. A fold forms where the outer ear will later be.

Your lifestyle choices will have a large impact on the developing baby this month. Exposure to drugs, alcohol or toxic substances during this time can significantly affect the baby’s development. Don’t use any prescription or street drugs during this time. Even some over the counter medications are considered unsafe for a developing baby.

Discuss all prescription and over the counter medications with your doctor or midwife. Sometimes a new medication will need to be prescribed during [tag-cat]pregnancy[/tag-cat]. Avoid alcohol to give your baby the best start in life. If you smoke, now is the time to quit. Everything you do has the potential to impact the baby. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble quitting smoking. There are ways he can help you quit.

Take good care of yourself during your pregnancy. Proper nutrition is important for your baby. Be sure to include important nutrients such as protein, calcium, carbohydrates, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Drink plenty of water and avoid beverages that contain caffeine. Make healthy choices for meals and snacks to be sure you are getting enough nutrition for your growing baby.

You may be feeling tired this month. This is due to hormonal changes during early pregnancy. Be sure to get enough rest. Start going to bed a little earlier at night to be sure you are getting enough rest. If you can, take a nap during the day. If you are working, rest during your lunch hour or take a short nap after work.

Women experience a wide range of symptoms during the second month of pregnancy. Some women feel fine and may not even feel pregnant. Other women are plagued by morning sickness, which can actually occur at any time of the day. Some of the symptoms you may have include: feeling tired, more frequent urination, breast tenderness or bloating. You may begin having aversions to some foods.

Emotional changes are common during this month as well. You may cry easily and with little provocation. Mood changes are also normal and are caused by hormonal changes. You may feel very happy and quickly change to feelings of nervousness or anxiety. This is very normal. Talking to a friend who is pregnant or has a baby may help relieve your anxiety.

Don’t forget to check out our next article: The Third Month of Pregnancy