2nd Trimester Pregnancy Update

2nd trimester . . .

On Saturday, I officially hit the 25 week mark of my first pregnancy. The experience is completely new, and I’ve felt a whirlwind of emotions. Here are a few Q&As and things I’ve learned about myself as my belly continues to grow.

How far along are you, and what size is the baby?

I’m currently 25 weeks + 5 days, and Baby Girl is the size of a rutabaga. I love getting updates from my BabyBump app because it gives me weekly stats like weight and size. This week she’s 13.5 inches and weighs 1.5 pounds. Slowly but surely, she’s growing (and so is my bump!).

P.S. The above picture was at my 20 week mark.

How do you feel: sleeping habits, pregnancy side effects, etc.?

My first trimester was a tough one. I was nauseous all the time, sleeping 12 hours at night and spending the majority of my days working from bed. Exhausted is definitely a word I’d use to describe it. Once I hit 14 weeks, the nausea got better, but the fatigue remained.

Fast forward, and I’m nearing the end of my 2nd trimester. I still go to bed early and fit in naps whenever I can. This has been the biggest learning curve. I’ve had to force myself to slow down, revise my to-do lists and admit that it’s ok to just say no. I can’t tackle my days like I used to.

Also, the feelings of anxiety, stress and negative body image have hit in full force. I’d even say they’re amplified to the Nth degree. I’m definitely blaming pregnancy hormones. By far, the mental and emotional side effects have been the hardest part.

What’s been your favorite part so far?

I’ve had multiple memorable moments that could easily make the list. Our first sonogram at 8 weeks was when it all became real. Jake was with me at the appointment, and I remember looking over when the tech first showed our tiny baby on the screen. He looked so happy. There really is nothing better than seeing someone you love experience a moment of pure joy.

Have you felt movement, and what does it feel like?

Yes! At first, the movement felt like there were Pop Rocks inside my belly. I liked to joke that I was incubating my own little jumping bean. As she’s gotten bigger, the movements have become more distinct. I can feel her little hands and feet flailing each night when I’m trying to fall asleep. That’s when she tends to be most active. Go figure.

Maternity purchases + baby buys so far?

Even though I’m in my 2nd trimester, I don’t quite fitting into clothes. My pre-pregnancy wardrobe is too small but most maternity pieces are still to big. I have found a few dresses (like this one!) and pants to pair with flow-y tops. These dark wash maternity jeans from Target have been a go-to. Sizing tip: they’re very forgiving and stretchy (I purchased an XS). Have any recommendations for me? Where should I shop?

I also purchased a ‘Snoogle’ pregnancy pillow to use when I sleep. It helps to keep me on my side, and I’ve noticed that my quality of sleep has dramatically improved. If you’re contemplating buying one, do it. I wish I would have gotten one sooner.

For Baby Girl, we’ve stuck to the basics. We purchased the nuna MIXX stroller and nuna PIPA carseat via Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale. I also picked up a Gap denim jacket just after I found out I was pregnant. I can’t wait to see her in it. Friends and family have graciously gifted us sweet swadle blankets, cozy clothing and fuzzy animal accessories. Already, Baby Girl is so spoiled and loved.

What are you most looking forward to?

I’m really looking froward to watching Baby Girl’s personality develop as she grows. What characteristics will she get from me? Hopefully, just my good ones. I’m also excited to see her interact with Jake. I have a feeling she’ll keep him wrapped around her little finger.

More questions?

As things progress, I promise to keep you posted. She’ll be here before we know it.

photo by Haley Nord