What's growing
Vernix appears
About 15 cm. A waxy coating forms to protect the skin from amniotic fluid.
Source: Moore, Persaud & Torchia, The Developing Human, 11th ed. (2020)
What's changing in you
Energy plateau
T2 is often the most workable trimester. Use it — without overloading.
Source: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed. (Cunningham et al., 2022)
General info — not personalized medical advice.
Maternal brain
Decisions about the anatomy scan
Find out the sex? Don't? Both are valid. Decide before the scan, not in the room.
Source: Cowan & Cowan, When Partners Become Parents (1992; 2nd ed. 2000)
You & baby
Movements may become regular
Many feel consistent kicks now, especially in the evening as cortisol drops.
Source: Cranley, Nursing Research 30(5), 1981 — Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale
For your partner
Go to the anatomy scan
Co-viewing milestone scans is associated with stronger paternal-fetal attachment.
Source: Feldman, Hormones and Behavior 77, 2016 — The neurobiology of human attachments
Move with care
Pelvic floor coordination
360° breath: ribs and pelvic floor expand on the inhale, gentle lift on the exhale. Not a kegel sprint (Bø 2016).
Source: Bø et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine 50(10), 2016 — Pelvic floor & exercise in pregnancy
General info — not personalized medical advice.
Eat for two brains
Hydration and headaches
Many T2 headaches are dehydration. Aim 2.5–3 L total fluids unless your provider says otherwise.
Source: Soma-Pillay et al., Cardiovascular Journal of Africa 27(2), 2016 — Physiological changes in pregnancy
General info — not personalized medical advice.
60-second prompt
What feels easier than you expected?
Counter-bias your attention. Notice ease, name it.
Source: Lieberman et al., Psychological Science 18(5), 2007 — Affect labeling
Developed and curated by perinatal psychologists, family & couples counsellors, doulas, perinatal health & fitness specialists, and IBCLCs / lactation consultants. Educational — not a substitute for medical care.