Pregnancy is often broken into three trimesters, each marking a distinct stage of your baby's development and your body's transformation. The second trimester is sometimes called the "golden trimester" - but when exactly does it begin?
When Does the Second Trimester Begin?
The second trimester officially begins at week 13 of pregnancy and continues through to week 27. That means:
- First trimester: Weeks 1 to 12
- Second trimester: Weeks 13 to 27
- Third trimester: Weeks 28 to 40 (or birth)
While the exact timing can vary slightly, the NHS and most medical professionals in the UK use this 13-week mark as the standard starting point.
Why the Second Trimester Matters
The second trimester is often associated with fewer early pregnancy symptoms, renewed energy, and some of the most exciting milestones:
- Your bump becomes more visible
- You may feel baby movements for the first time
- Your 20-week scan takes place
- Many people start to feel more confident sharing their news
It’s a time to start bonding with your growing baby and prepare for the journey ahead.
What Changes Can I Expect?
Once you reach week 13, you might notice a shift:
- Morning sickness often improves
- Energy levels may return
- Your appetite might increase
- Hormonal changes may feel more manageable
At the same time, your baby is developing rapidly. By week 14, they can smile, swallow, and even frown. By week 20, they’re the size of a sweet potato and may start responding to sound.
Why Do People Feel Better in the Second Trimester?
In the early weeks, high levels of hCG and other hormones can cause fatigue, nausea, and emotional ups and downs. By week 13, your placenta has taken over hormone production, helping to stabilize how you feel.
Many people find that the second trimester brings:
- Improved sleep
- A brighter mood
- Greater enjoyment of pregnancy
- Less need for constant rest
That said, everyone is different. If symptoms like nausea or exhaustion continue, don’t hesitate to speak to your midwife.
What Appointments Happen in the Second Trimester?
Several important checks and milestones take place in this phase:
- 16-week midwife appointment to check your blood pressure and discuss your test results
- 20-week anomaly scan to check your baby’s development in detail
- Routine blood pressure and urine tests at follow-up antenatal appointments
It’s also a great time to start antenatal classes, research baby products, and plan for parental leave if applicable.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Start pelvic floor exercises now to strengthen core muscles for birth and recovery
- Stay active with gentle movement like walking, swimming, or pregnancy yoga
- Keep a pregnancy journal to record symptoms, milestones, and questions for your midwife
- Use this time to prepare - research baby products, create a birth plan, and look after your well-being
- Stay up to date with appointments and keep a copy of your maternity notes handy
- Research local antenatal classes and aim to start by 28 weeks
The second trimester starts at week 13 and is often a time of renewed energy, excitement, and connection. Whether you’re feeling better already or still managing tricky symptoms, know that you’re entering a new stage of your pregnancy journey - one where your baby is growing fast, and your body is adapting beautifully.
