Second Trimester Checklist
Important tasks and milestones for weeks 14-27 of pregnancy.
Best to start: Week 14 of pregnancy
Overview
The second trimester is often called the "honeymoon period" of pregnancy. Energy typically returns, nausea fades, and you're not yet uncomfortable from your growing belly.
This is an ideal time to tackle bigger projects like setting up the nursery, taking a babymoon, or attending childbirth classes.
Medical Appointments
- Attend monthly prenatal checkups
- Have anatomy scan ultrasound (18-22 weeks)
- Consider optional genetic screening tests
- Complete glucose tolerance test (24-28 weeks)
- Discuss kick counting with your provider
- Ask about flu shot and Tdap vaccine
- Report any concerning symptoms immediately
- Track your weight gain
Physical Changes
- Feel baby's first movements (quickening) around 16-25 weeks
- Start wearing maternity clothes as needed
- Invest in supportive maternity bra
- Use belly support band if helpful
- Begin applying stretch mark prevention cream if desired
- Address skin changes (melasma, darkening)
- Manage round ligament pain with gentle movement
- Consider maternity support pillow for sleep
Baby Planning
- Find out baby's sex if desired (usually at anatomy scan)
- Start thinking about baby names
- Create baby registry
- Begin nursery planning and decorating
- Research and choose pediatrician
- Decide on circumcision preference if having a boy
- Research cord blood banking options
- Consider hiring doula if desired
Education & Preparation
- Sign up for childbirth education classes
- Take hospital tour
- Research pain management options for labor
- Learn about newborn care basics
- Decide between breastfeeding, formula, or combination
- Read books about labor and delivery
- Attend breastfeeding class if planning to nurse
- Learn about postpartum recovery
Work & Legal
- Formally notify employer of pregnancy and maternity leave plans
- Understand FMLA or maternity leave policy details
- Begin training your maternity leave replacement if applicable
- Plan work projects around your due date
- Update beneficiaries on insurance and retirement accounts
- Consider creating or updating your will
- Review disability insurance
Fun & Self-Care
- Plan a babymoon trip if desired (best time is weeks 14-28)
- Take maternity photos
- Attend baby shower if someone is hosting
- Continue gentle exercise routine
- Practice prenatal yoga or swimming
- Schedule date nights with partner
- Pamper yourself with prenatal massage
- Enjoy your bump!
🛍️ Shop Items From This Checklist
Comfort and preparation products other expecting parents find helpful at this stage. These are convenience picks, not medical advice — always follow your provider's guidance.
Belly Butter / Stretch-Mark Cream
Rich cocoa-butter moisturizer to keep a growing belly comfortable and hydrated.
Check Price on Amazon →Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow
U-shaped support for side-sleeping that helps take pressure off hips and back.
Check Price on Amazon →Maternity Leggings & Tops
Stretchy over-the-bump basics that grow with you for everyday comfort.
Check Price on Amazon →Amazon Associates Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. These recommendations are editorially chosen comfort and preparation products and are not medical advice.
💡 Helpful Tips
- ✓This is often the best time for travel - after first trimester risks but before third trimester discomfort
- ✓Stock up on maternity essentials during sales
- ✓Take advantage of your energy - third trimester may be harder
- ✓Start practicing pelvic floor exercises
- ✓It's not too early to start shopping for baby items
- ✓Announce pregnancy on social media if you haven't yet
- ✓Take weekly bump photos
💾 Tip: Use your browser's print function (Ctrl/Cmd + P) to save or print this checklist for easy reference.
This checklist is a general guide. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.