Proper nutrition plays a central role in fetal development and maternal health throughout these months. Focus on getting a wide variety of whole foods to cover your key nutrient needs.

Foods to minimise or avoid:

• Raw or undercooked meat and eggs
• Unpasteurised dairy products
• Excess caffeine — limit to around 200 mg per day
• Highly processed or fried foods

Regular movement improves circulation, reduces back pain, supports healthy weight gain, and lifts your mood. The key is choosing low-impact activities you enjoy.

Avoid heavy lifting, high-impact sports, or lying flat on your back for extended periods. Always consult your doctor before starting or changing any exercise routine.

As your baby grows, your body works harder behind the scenes. Quality rest is not a luxury — it is essential for hormonal balance and overall well-being.

Hormonal shifts can still influence your mood during the second trimester. Emotional health is just as important as physical health — and the two are deeply connected.

Prenatal yoga is one of the most recommended practices during pregnancy. It improves flexibility, posture, breathing awareness, and deep relaxation — all of which prepare you beautifully for birth.

Routine appointments during the second trimester typically include ultrasound scans and screening tests to monitor your baby's development. Continue taking prescribed prenatal vitamins and discuss any unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider.

Trust your instincts. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Heavy bleeding
• Persistent headaches or vision changes
• Sudden swelling of face or hands
• Noticeably reduced baby movement (later in the trimester)