For most women, the second trimester comes as a respite after the tough, first three months. Some still complain of the same signs of fatigue and morning sickness. This trimester is marked by many tests that the mother has to take.
Doctors generally screen for fetal deformities (AFP tests) during the second trimester between 15 to 20 weeks.
Measurements are taken and the size of the baby is estimated based on the conception date the mother specified. Any abnormalities in the fetus are detected. Common ones are Down's syndrome, heart malformation, spina bifida, cleft lip, etc.
The risk of the baby having a birth defect increases with mother's age at delivery, especially over 35.
A positive screening result does not automatically mean the child has a birth defect as this is not an affirmative test. Also, race differences are not accounted for in the ratios. The conception date the mother mentioned could be wrong thus causing an error in due date calculation, and hence in the expected growth (size) of the baby. If the screening result is positive, a genetic counselor meets with the parents to discuss the outcome of the test and the options going forward.
There are additional tests that could be taken to confirm whether the baby has a defect or not. Called amniocentesis, this involves extracting amniotic fluid from the mother's uterus that contains skin cells that the baby sheds to get a chromosome count of the baby, and detect any chromosomal abnormalities. The sex of the baby can also be confirmed using this test. This is an in-patient procedure and will take only a few hours. But it is important to lie flat and rest for 2-3 days following the procedure. It is advised not to take the stairs or lift anything heavy. Since the uterus is punctured to get the amniotic fluid, there is some risk of the fluid leaking out. In some cases, it can lead to fetal death.
This experience can be stressful, but it is important to eat well, relax and rest as much as possible.
Tests for blood sugar (with and without fasting) are also done around the fifth month. A diet loaded with carbs will not help with the test. Exercise and walk to keep your blood sugar in control.
Skipping meals is not an option to decrease blood sugar. This might hurt the growing brain of the baby.
Eating small quantities at regular intervals is important. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you would be put on a protein-rich diet. Some mothers continue to have diabetes even after the baby is born. While you can have cravings, you still have to watch what you put in your mouth and eat healthy, for yourself and for the baby.
Also…
Your doctor might ask you to sleep on your left side because that's when the baby gets the most oxygen. Lying on your back or the right side can press against the baby and block blood supply to the uterus. Some believe that rolling over side to side in your sleep could cause the umbilical cord to entangle the baby; instead it is better to sit up and lie down on the other side. Doctors however think that the umbilical cord can entangle in many other ways too, not necessarily by rolling over.
Tip: Apply moisturizing cream to your belly after you shower. Avoid creams with aloe.
