The second trimester – also known as the honeymoon phase of pregnancy – hits a little differently during twin pregnancy. For me, the nausea and complete lack of energy resolved slightly but unlike my previous pregnancies, new second trimester symptoms awaited. Here are a few of the symptoms I dealt with during the second trimester of twin pregnancy and how to help improve your comfort levels during this time!
*Remember – all pregnancies are different. This blog is simply meant to share experience, education, and general advice and should not be substituted for medical evaluation and treatment. If you are having difficulty with any of these issues, I encourage you to have a thorough evaluation with a Doctor of Physical Therapy that specializes in pregnancy and pelvic floor function.
RAPID WEIGHT GAIN
The extra baby (and extra amniotic sac, fluid, and placenta for those of us with di/di twins) means extra weight gain. This weight gain is absolutely normal and necessary but may happen faster than your previous pregnancies causing increased body aches/pains, fatigue with exertion, and overall discomfort. One way to combat the negative side effects of rapid weight gain is to be strong going into your pregnancy – yes, this means regular resistance training prior to becoming pregnant – and to continue to exercise with a focus on cardiovascular, resistance, and mobility training within your body’s limits.
PELVIC PRESSURE
For me, the increased weight of the abdomen and increased subsequent force caused a significant response from my pelvic floor musculature including feelings of tightness and pressure. This is absolutely normal as the muscles respond to support and hold up the increased abdominal contents but can be painful and cause further symptoms like prolapse, incontinence, and pain if not addressed. This pelvic pressure can be addressed with rest or activities that unweight the pelvic floor, wearing compression shorts to help with blood flow, and incorporating pelvic floor stretching and diaphragmatic breathing into your daily routine.
LOW BLOOD PRESSURE
Thanks to hormones causing increased blood vessel dilation along with a significant increase in blood volume, blood pressure changes are very common during pregnancy. Low blood pressure can present as episodes of sudden cold and clamminess, dizziness, and fatigue. This can be improved by staying hydrated, exercising regularly (but NOT during a low blood pressure episode), wearing compression stockings, and working with your care provider to make sure your red blood cell and iron are at sufficient levels in your body.
I feel more than blessed to have made it through my second trimester with two healthy, growing babies, even if the side effects are always the prettiest. What side effects did you have during your second trimester? For twin moms, how did this differ from your singletons? Share your experience and advice in the comments below!
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