Bump Edition: Everything I Experienced in My Second Trimester
The past few months seem like a blur. We had such a great time over the holidays entertaining friends and family and then also spending time together on our trips, but I am so glad to be back in my normal swing of things. I wanted to share a few updates about my pregnancy in today’s post and insights to what I experienced in my second trimester. First of all, I noticed a huge increase in my energy levels which is pretty common. I began walking 10,000 steps a day and noticed I felt so much better. I would pace myself, but each morning and evening I walked for about an hour and fifteen minutes. It felt so good to move my body and kept my legs in shape.
Cravings shifted
During my first trimester (which you can read about it here), I had a ton of cravings for heavier foods like fried chicken tenders and hamburgers. Things shifted during the second trimester and suddenly I had a huge aversion to mean in general. My midwife put me on a high-protein diet and I consumed tons of dairy, plant protein, nuts, and anything I could get my hands on and keep down. It was challenging but Greek yogurt and this protein powder were pivotal. I also noticed a craving for baked goods, specifically cinnamon rolls. I found out that pregnancy can lower serotonin and yeast baked goods have tryptophan in them. Towards the end of the second trimester, I also wanted coconut yogurt and ice cream. I still ate smaller meals but chose to not deny myself of things I craved.
Leg Pain
One thing that surprised me during this pregnancy was the amount of leg pain I began having as soon as my belly appeared. I was walking 10,000 steps a day and noticing at night that I would wake up with excruciating pain in my IT bands. I ended up getting a prenatal massage from Kim in College Station and she is a doula. She was full of so much advice and left me with some stretches I could work on at home. She also recommended foam rolling and Marshall helped me with leg and lower back pain. He has been so supportive and such a blessing throughout the entire pregnancy and I could not be more thankful.
Diet and Nutrients
Having a ton of protein and essential vitamins is key during pregnancy. I had to make major changes to get my protein intake up, but it has been well worth it. My midwife recommended staying super hydrated and also working on getting enough iron, Vitamin B, and Folate. I chose this prenatal vitamin because it has a much higher amount of Folate than many other prenatal vitamins on the market. She also recommended lots of walks and to take naps.
Styling the Bump
I shared a few posts here and here earlier in the Fall season with maternity clothes, but most of what I’ve worn throughout the pregnancy included items I already owned or I sized up one or two sizes. I did opt for a few new bras because…well, my boobs doubled. I also went up a size in underwear so I had room around the belly as it expanded. I recommend looking for items that do not have a tight waistband or opt for dresses and jumpsuits. For shoes, I reached consistently for my Sarah Flint Sachetto flats or these pumps from Ally Shoes (worn in today’s post). I also recently grabbed the Adidas Sambas which have not disappointed. Finally, the other pair of shoes I’ve had on repeat are these fuzzy slides from Amazon. They are quick and easy to slip on and go with everything.
Skincare and Body Care
I couldn’t finish this post without talking about how important skincare is during pregnancy. Every single night I take the time to take a long shower or bath to wind down and use this body wash which is so clean and good for the body. I finish by rubbing this belly butter all over my chest, hips, and belly. So far, I have zero stretch marks and minimal itching from the stretching of my skin. I continue to take collagen daily . All of this makes such a big difference in nourishing the body from the inside out.
I would love to hear some of the things you have been experiencing in your second trimester. It’s so beautiful to be pregnant but comes with its fair share of hurdles. Please feel free to comment or reach out on social media!
Pregnancy Must Haves
