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    The second trimester (weeks 13 to 27) is the middle part of your pregnancy. 

    The third trimester (weeks 28 to birth) is the final part of your pregnancy.

    What to focus on

    During both your second and third trimesters, you may want to: 

    What to expect from your body and baby

    Second trimester / Mid-pregnancy (13-27 weeks)

    During your second trimester:

    • your baby continues to grow and your body changes as it prepares for birth
    • as your uterus expands, you will experience visible weight gain and a growing belly
    • your skin will stretch and you may notice your joints feel sore or uncomfortable.

    You might feel early pregnancy symptoms ease and notice physical and emotional changes as your body adapts. It’s common to:

    • have more energy and feel less nauseous
    • start to feel your baby move
    • notice your baby bump becoming more visible.

    Third trimester / Late pregnancy (28 weeks-birth)

    During your third trimester your baby grows bigger, meaning your skin and ligaments will continue to stretch. You might notice physical changes and discomfort that make everyday tasks harder. It’s common to: 

    • feel more tired or uncomfortable
    • be more aware of your baby’s movement and have an idea of their pattern.

    Week by week

    Learn more about the physical changes in pregnancy: Pregnancy - week by week | Better Health Channel.

    Your baby will continue to move every day, right up until their birth.

    You will start to feel your baby move between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy, regardless of where your placenta lies.

    Every baby is different. They have rest times and active times. It is easier to feel your baby’s movements when sitting quietly or laying on your side, especially in the evening.

    If your baby’s movements increase, stop or slow down, contact your maternity care provider without delay. You are not wasting their time. It is important for your maternity care provider to know if you’re concerned about your baby’s movements.

    It is important to seek advice whenever you are worried, even if you have been checked recently. It’s ok to contact your maternity care provider without delay until you feel reassured your baby is moving normally for them. 

    Learn more

    Your baby's movements matter | Safer Baby - Working Together to Reduce Stillbirth

    Baby movements during pregnancy | Pregnancy Birth and Baby

    Baby Movements During Pregnancy

    Multicultural Initiative | Safer Baby - Working Together to Reduce Stillbirth

    The use of a handheld (home-use) doppler to check your baby’s heartbeat is not recommended as they can give false reassurance. If you have any concerns about your baby, contact your maternity care provider straight away.

    Learn more

    Post-market review of home-use foetal dopplers | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

    Braxton Hicks contractions are short periods of tightening in the uterus and are sometimes called “practice contractions”.

    These contractions are: 

    • common and can happen from mid‑pregnancy onwards
    • usually come and go irregularly
    • help the uterus prepare for labour, but do not mean labour has started
    • ease with rest, hydration or changing position.

    If you’re unsure or worried, contact your maternity care provider. 

    Learn more

    Braxton Hicks contractions | Pregnancy Birth & Baby

    Managing your wellbeing and comfort

    Common changes in the second and third trimesters include back or pelvic pain, reflux, leg cramps and swelling. 

    There are simple measures to help manage these discomforts, such as:

    • posture support
    • gentle movement
    • supportive footwear
    • position changes
    • eating and drinking well
    • ensuring you include fibre in your diet.

    It is important to speak to your maternity care provider for advice if you’re having ongoing issues with the above common changes.

    Learn more

    Body Changes and Managing Discomfort | Pregnancy Birth & Baby

    As pregnancy progresses, sleep can become more disturbed. 

    Side sleeping is recommended from 28 weeks of gestation until the baby is born.

    When you sleep on your back, the uterus can compress major blood vessels and restrict blood flow and oxygen to your baby. 

    You can go to sleep on either the left or the right side – either side is fine. It’s normal to change position during sleep and many pregnant women wake up on their back. 

    The important thing is to start every sleep lying on your side (both for daytime naps and at night). If you wake up on your back, just roll back over on your side.

    Gentle stretching and regular rest during the day can improve your comfort and wellbeing. You may find additional pillows to support your body in bed is comfortable and can help you stay on your side. If you continue having trouble sleeping, talk with your maternity care provider. 

    Learn more

    Stillbirth CRE Home | The Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth 

    Sleep On Your Side During Pregnancy | Red Nose

    Sleep and rest | Pregnancy Birth & Baby 

    Side sleeping | Safer Baby

    Regular, gentle physical activity (such as walking, swimming, or pregnancy specific classes) can improve your physical and mental health throughout pregnancy. Exercise should feel comfortable and be adapted as your body changes.

    Pelvic floor exercises are recommended daily to help support the growing baby and reduce bladder and bowel problems during pregnancy and after birth. 

    If you feel you need additional support, a women’s health physiotherapist can talk to you about your specific needs. 

    Learn more

    Movement, Exercise and Pelvic Health | Better Health Channel

    During your pregnancy your maternity care provider will check in regularly about your mood, stress and your support needs. If you or someone close to you has concerns about your emotional wellbeing or mental health, you can raise these concerns with your maternity care provider and ask for extra support. 

    Learn more

    Your Health and Wellbeing in Pregnancy | My Maternity Journey

    Pregnancy often brings changes to the way your body looks, how you see yourself, how you share responsibilities and how your relationships work.

    The last few weeks of pregnancy are a good time to consider your support needs and talk with people in your support network about how they can help. This may include discussing your preferences, setting boundaries, and making practical plans, including backup options if plans change.

    It can also be helpful to understand that experiences of pregnancy, birth and early parenting vary. Information shared on social media may not reflect the full range of experiences. Speaking with trusted people or accessing reliable information sources can help you feel more prepared for what to expect.

    Learn more

    Parenthood and your relationship | Better Health Channel

    Promoting healthy, equal and respectful relationships | Baby Makes 3

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