The second trimester of pregnancy
For many couples, things settle down in the second trimester.
There’s much less risk of losing the pregnancy in these middle months. Morning sickness usually settles by about 14-16 weeks. Your partner’s mood and energy are likely to lift, and body and hormone changes might mean changes in her desire for sex.
Even before the baby was born, there were very quiet times. We really made a point of not overbooking ourselves, not rushing around, just enjoying the time together and at the end of the day winding down completely.
– George, father of two
Things to think about in the second trimester
Now’s the time to think and talk about big topics like becoming a dad, finances, wills and building your relationship.
Open communication during pregnancy can help set you up for a supportive and positive relationship when you’re parenting together. So if there are changes in your relationship that are worrying you, it might ease your mind if you talk about them with your partner. That goes for any worries you have about finances or other parts of your life together.
Healthy eating during pregnancy and getting some exercise are other things to pay attention to in the second trimester, now that morning sickness has probably eased up.
You might also find yourself thinking about what being a dad means to you. Perhaps you’re already planning what activities you'd like to do with your child and are looking forward to being your child’s guide and teacher.
I’ve always wanted to be a good dad. I want to be a good bloke, a good musician and a good sportsperson, but nothing compares to wanting to be a good father. Not every bloke is like that – that’s OK. But the number one thing in my life is being a good, solid role model for my kids, so they know that I’m someone they can rely on and trust and who will help them get along their way.
– Felix, father of four
Food cravings in the second trimester
You might keep an eye out for weird and wonderful food cravings. Will your partner suddenly crave ice-cream and hummus first thing in the morning? Or want cereal at bedtime?
But don’t be surprised if there are no cravings and your partner is just eating a bit more – and more often.
More than pregnancy mood changes
Mood changes in your partner are likely to settle in the middle months too.
But if you notice that your partner’s mood and behaviour – or yours – are changing in a big way, you might need to find out about depression, anxiety, stress or other mood problems. If you or your partner has mood or emotional changes that last longer than two weeks and get in the way of daily life, this is a sign that you need help from a health professional.
Things you can do
- Strengthen your relationship with your partner by doing things together that you both enjoy.
- Talk about any changes in the relationship with your partner. Be understanding and open with each other about the mix of feelings that you might both be experiencing.
- Start a conversation with your partner about finances, expectations about household tasks – for example, who does what – and anything else that’s on your mind.
- Do you have a will? Is it up to date? Do you have life insurance? Now’s a good time to get these serious issues sorted.
- If you or your partner has mood or emotional changes that last for more than two weeks and get in the way of daily life, get some professional help. Start by making an appointment with your GP.