The second trimester is a term given to the middle weeks of pregnancy. It begins at week 13 and lasts until week 28, when a woman will move into the third and final trimester. Weeks 12 to 28 are also classed as months four to six.
This trimester is acknowledged as the point where most women will begin to overcome the sickness and lethargy that commonly occurs during the first trimester (conception to week 12).
It is also the time in which many women will start to bloom and enjoy the more positive aspects of pregnancy – which can include a dramatic increase in energy; peachy skin; and full, shiny hair. For these reasons, the second trimester is known as the 'honeymoon' phase.
The most exciting development for any woman in the second trimester will be the ability to feel her baby kick. This usually happens at around 18-22 weeks, but can happen earlier or later. Her bump will also develop quickly due to the baby's rapid growth during this period.
As well as the usual scans and checks, a woman will also be offered a series of other tests during this trimester, including the chance to find out the baby's gender. This is normally possible at around 20 weeks.
Testing for Down's Syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities via an amniocentesis also takes place during the second trimester.