It’s been over a month since my last update about my first trimester, and now I’m well into my second. I wanted to share how this pregnancy is going so far, and start with a few comparison photos that show how different my body looks this time around.
The change in belly size in this second pregnancy has been striking.
I haven’t been tracking this pregnancy as closely as I did the first—fewer photos, less app-checking, and not as many notes about growth week to week. With my first I checked sizes against fruits and vegetables every week; this time I’m more relaxed. Sometimes Jacob mentions what size the baby is, and I’ll glance in the app, but mostly I’m going with the flow.
Before I get to the positives, I’ll be honest about what’s been challenging.
Back pain. It’s been the most persistent and limiting issue this time. I had back discomfort toward the end of my first pregnancy, but this round feels far worse—sometimes it’s so intense I feel stuck on the floor and struggle to get up. I tried chiropractic care and a massage last week, which offered some relief, but the pain is still present most of the time. Carrying Hunter tends to make it worse: I usually carry him on my left side, which is the side that hurts, so I’m making a conscious effort to shift him to my right hip. It feels awkward, but it helps. Daily icing and foam rolling provide some relief, but the problem hasn’t fully resolved. I have another massage and chiropractor appointment coming up and I’m hopeful those will help more because this back pain really affects daily life.
Aside from the back trouble, headaches and nausea have improved. Any other discomfort pales in comparison to how limiting the back pain can be.
Now for the good news. Time is flying and I’m enjoying watching my belly grow. I’ve started to feel baby movements—small, fluttery kicks at first, and then more noticeable activity, especially when I slow down in the evening. Last night, as I was reading a monthly update from another mom and feeling a little emotional, the baby started kicking repeatedly. It felt like a little reassurance and made me teary in a happy way. Jacob had just asked earlier if I’d felt anything, so I was tempted to wake him, but I let him sleep and savored the moment.
Feeling those kicks has brought a mix of excitement and nostalgia. I realize my special one-on-one time with Hunter will change as he becomes a big brother. I’m thrilled about the new baby, but I also find myself getting sentimental about our little family changing. It’s that emotional, tear-at-anything phase of pregnancy—watch out, Jacob!
On a lighter note, I love teaching fitness classes while pregnant. Students often tell me that if I can lead the class while expecting, they feel encouraged to push themselves too. Pregnancy has become a motivator for others and for me. I’m hopeful I can continue to challenge and inspire my classes throughout this pregnancy. Working out generally feels good, except on the worst back-pain days, and I’ve only had to slow down while teaching a few times. I’ve also started teaching a weekly power yoga class, which should help me maintain strength and flexibility. I’m not always consistent with home yoga, but teaching forces me to practice regularly, which is a big plus.
I even picked up a “second for two” fitness top on sale that’s perfect for prenatal yoga—comfortable and supportive for workouts while pregnant.
Clothing has become a bit of a balancing act. I’m between my regular clothes and maternity pieces. Many of my maternity items are stretched from last time and fit loosely now, but my everyday pants are getting uncomfortable. Jeans are mostly out since I live in workout clothes; tops that are longer still work if they don’t ride up. I’m considering a few pairs of leggings to bridge the gap—comfortable like sweatpants but looking slightly more put together.
At 18 weeks I’ve gained about eight pounds—steady and gradual. In just one week we’ll find out whether we’ll be welcoming a boy or a girl.
What do you think—another boy or a girl this time? Have any fellow moms dealt with early pregnancy back pain? I’d love tips and suggestions.
Today’s plans include plenty of playtime with Hunter and some bib-making after a fun trip to the fabric store yesterday.
Happy Wednesday,
Heather
PS: The cookbook giveaway is still going on!