Second Trimester Recap & Favorites
DRESS DETAILS (XXL - NON-MATERNITY)
Second Trimester
Recap & Favorites
And just like that… the second trimester came and went. It felt like it zoomed on by and dragged at the same time. I truly thought it would last forever, or perhaps a bit longer, so I was in disbelief when my app said, “welcome to the third trimester.” Overall, I’m feeling pretty good, all things considered, but I’m excited to dig into it today!
I posted a question box the other day regarding all things pregnancy and second-trimester-related, and I look forward to answering those! I did see several repeat questions that I’ve already covered on my first-trimester recap and more posts on the “motherhood” tab of the blog. This includes our trying-to-conceive journey, how I’ve managed morning sickness/nausea, and handling body changes. I’ve also covered my current skincare and haircare routine and some clothing picks! We also shared earlier this week that we will be having a baby boy. But of course, more to come! Thank you for being so encouraging and allowing me to share.
here’s a glimpse into
the SECOND trimester
Alas, the second trimester. I was promised so many things… like energy, appetite, and a cute bump. If you read my first-trimester recap, you’d know that I’d been struggling hard with morning sickness (that was more like an afternoon/early evening sickness), low energy, and little to no appetite. If there’s one thing I know about pregnancy to be accurate, it’s that it is not linear. Just because I hit a specific day/milestone doesn’t mean my symptoms will magically fade… if only!
I share this not to scare anyone, but I was still throwing up until 24 weeks, and I still (almost at 28) struggle with nausea, smell/food aversions, and gagging. Somehow, despite having the food palette of a toddler (looking at you, flavor-blasted Goldfish, mac & cheese, and fruit), this baby is in the 91% percentile in height and weight, so somehow, I’m getting enough. I saw my energy slowly improve, but my expectations have certainly been lowered, so anything at or above the bare minimum is a win for me. I was able to travel, once to Florida and another trip to the BVI’s, and while we modified where we needed to, I found that being in the sunshine certainly helped/cured a lot of my issues. But to my pregnant people currently growing through it, know that it DOES get better… so hang in there and take care of yourself, even if that means a sleeve of saltines, a ginger ale, and a nap. You’re doing great.
Regarding the bump, I started to see and embrace the belly more in recent weeks. I shared a vulnerable post about my stomach and how I’ve been working to un-learn some preconceived notions I’ve had about it. I’ve decided to embrace this phase fully and let it all hang out… because why the heck not?
Pregnancy Q&A
real talk: How are you feeling?
How’s your energy level been?
Highs and lows. That’s the best way I can describe it. I’ve had good, even great, days, and I’ve had some not-so-good ones. Most meats and smells are still my nemesis. Goldfish = good, chicken = bad. As I write this, I feel good but currently have some low back and hip pain that I’ve been combating from all angles.
Any tips for being more comfortable?
Why, yes. Where to begin? I’ve accidentally become a pregnancy pillow connoisseur… I started with this one (I use it now at my desk), then graduated to this one (which I use while traveling), and then upgraded to this one-sided full-body pillow (which I still use the small zip-off part of) and now have settled on this one… It’s exhausting trying to be comfortable (lol), but they’ve helped me, mainly to keep my body aligned, and Walter enjoys them too.
I have also been able to stay pretty active throughout this pregnancy. I walk 2-3 miles a day, stretch, and I started using the Sculpt Society app, which is not pregnancy-specific, but they have great options for prenatal and postnatal. The belly band has been great for feeling supported. Think of it like a bra for your belly. It helps alleviate the heaviness. I’ve also continued with chiropractic care and started acupuncture. I’ve also had a few massages, which I would do weekly if I could. If you’re in Buffalo, I’d be happy to send my recommendations over to you.
When should I buy a pregnancy pillow, maternity bra, new clothes?
Honestly, everyone will tell you all sorts of opinions and timelines, but you should do whatever feels good to you, whenever that is. I busted out of my leggings/pants, bras, and undies pretty early into the first trimester (I couldn’t stand the feeling of anything tight).
How did you balance adding new maternity clothes into your wardrobe?
Due to the nature of my job, I have the luxury and flexibility to experiment with clothes a lot more than the average gal, so I’ve personally been doing a lot of that this trimester. I did find that I needed some excellent leggings, t-shirts, and bras here that fit me well now, which has helped me feel more polished and put-together and previously shared some here (at bottom), here, and here. If you don’t have a tape measure, it’s time to invest in one. I like to compare my measurements to each sizing chart and make educated decisions from there. I also have some maternity clothing favorites saved on my LTK here and my Amazon Storefront. I am working on a maternity capsule/go-to destinations to shop roundup that will soon hit the blog.
Have you found any Books, classes, follows helpful for preparation?
I think it’s important for any pregnant person to determine how much information is too much information. I enjoy feeling prepared and having a plan, so I’ve been slowly but surely immersing myself in new information in ways that resonate with me. I know I don’t want to overload myself, so I do it at my own pace. One of my best friends read zero books and did nothing to prepare and is doing great with a perfectly healthy child. Don’t let anyone scare you into feeling like you’re not doing enough. If you’re not into it, don’t force it.
I previously shared that I use a few different apps. I like variety, so I’ve been using Flo, What to Expect, and Ovia. They’re all great, and I like having them all because they give different information.
I’ve really been enjoying being subscribed to Alpha Mom’s weekly emails and the Babe Weekly Tracker. A few favorite follows have been @MommyLaborNurse (also subscribed to e-mails and utilize her checklists), @Mama_Nurse_Tina, @Dr.MaeHughes, @EatPlaySay, and @DermGuru. I’ve also found myself on the labor & delivery side of TikTok which has been equal parts informative and horrifying.
I have a stack of books sitting on my desk filled with wonderful recommendations but are currently collecting dust… maybe the third trimester will be the one where I crack one open? A few include Moms on Call, Fair Play, Hands-Free Mama, Bringing up Bebe, On Becoming Baby Wise, Baby Bargains, and Expecting Better. I cannot speak to any of these because I haven’t read them, so if you have, let me know if any of them are worth it!
My doctor said she will fully support me if I don’t read or do anything to prepare but at the very least, take a baby CPR class. I found a class through the Care Connection, will report back on that once we complete it.
Will you share your registry must-haves and stroller/car seat picks?
Yes! We picked out a stroller recently, and I’ll be sharing more about it next week. I really struggled with my registry, but maybe as we get closer to delivery, I’ll share more about what we chose. There are too many options, and everyone’s preferences are SO different!
will you be sharing the name?
We think we have a name picked out but still aren’t decided on the middle name! We will not be sharing the name until he is born (not even with close family). I honestly just prefer it this way and don’t want any opinions about the name. Once he’s born, we’ll ensure the name fits him too!
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 (Use Code CARALYN) | 12 | 13 | 14
I’ve accidentally become a pregnancy pillow connoisseur… I started with this one (I use it now at my desk), then graduated to this one (which I use while traveling), and then upgraded to this one-sided full-body pillow (which I still use the small zip-off part of) and now have settled on this one… It’s exhausting trying to be comfortable (lol), but they’ve helped me, mainly to keep my body aligned, and Walter enjoys them too. The belly band has been great for feeling supported. Think of it like a bra for your belly. It helps alleviate the heaviness.
I bought this acrylic stool for the shower early on in my second trimester, and it’s a 10/10, high quality, and highly functional. I love these leggings for workouts. They’re inexpensive and extremely comfortable. These non-maternity joggers are SO beyond comfortable, I took them in my pre-pregnancy size XL, and they are a great option when I don’t feel like wearing leggings. I covered maternity t-shirts and basics in this previous post; the two links above have been my favorites! Working on a Storq try-on soon; their stuff is size-inclusive and works for non-pregnant bodies. This dress (styled above) in XL has been a favorite (use Caralyn10)!
These compression socks have been wonderful, especially while traveling. The headlights are blinding; thanks to my Cakes body nipple covers, I can keep everything smooth and discreet (use code CARALYN). I talked a little bit about maternity-related shapewear solutions in this previous post. The two styles above have been a favorite for feeling supported and smooth. Lastly, I’ve been loving and using this belly oil every night on my stomach and hips (it’s been extra great for feeling more hydrated too).
Thanks for reading!
Per usual, this was A LOT longer than I expected, but we had a lot to cover. I hope it was helpful. Feel free to leave any questions or requests for more or any of your tried and true favorites below.
xx CMK
Photo at the top by Ryan Kell