Second Trimester, Travel, Swelling, Aches and Pains - User10458

The Second Trimester Story

Hunger, Travel, and Finding My Glow
People talk about the "glow," but they don’t always talk about the hunger. For me, pregnancy was a transformational phase — physical, emotional, and even academic. If you are currently in the midst of it, feeling tired and not fitting into your favorite clothes, I'm just saying: it’s okay, and it’s all part of the process.

The Hunger and the Energy
The appetite was real. I found myself eating every three hours and still had fatigue at the end of the day. I’d usually have my biggest meal for the evening.

Amidst the physical changes, I was finishing my PhD. Graduation required a lot of travel, including flights during my second trimester.

Swelling: Started around the 6th month when I travel sitting for more than 5 hours. Doctors prescribed me compression socks. To manage the swelling and stay hydrated, I turned to water-rich foods—white pumpkin, plantain pith, and barley porride were my go-to diet to battle leg swelling. Again, hydration helps your kidneys and system to avoid/flush the swelling. Also, yes, it means you’ll be peeing every two hours, but that is exactly what helped keep my swelling under control! If travelling - use peebuds, which allow you to avoid dirty toilets during travel.

Managing the Aches
By the 4th to 6th month, the back pain really kicked in. I quickly learned that "support" was the keyword of the season. A good supporting pillow for sleep and a maternity belt for daytime movement supports a lot.
My legs felt heavy, and my feet suffered from cracks and severe pain. I realized that this wasn't the time for fashion-forward shoes—soft, cushioned footwear became my best friend. For the cracks in my legs, I just used plain moisturizers, socks, coconut oil and compression socks.

The Wardrobe Struggle
Watching my body change from an L to an XXL was mentally tough. None of my current clothes fit, and I found myself reaching for old "pre-weight loss" clothes just to find something that would zip up.
I’ll be honest: it felt bad at first. It’s hard to see your facial features change and your wardrobe shrink. But I remind myself that this is normal and is exactly what is supposed to happen.

Finding Joy in the Small Things
When the hormones made me sensitive or quicker to anger than usual, I looked for "soul-soothers." Dressing up nicely—even in a larger size—boosted my mood instantly. I turned to art, painting pictures and even just the simple act of applying nail polish to feel like myself again. It's like focusing on just one thing, that is going to take your mind of other intrusive thoughts.

To the mamas-to-be: Your body is doing incredible work. It’s okay to feel sensitive, it’s okay to be hungry, and it’s okay to need a little extra support. Do what makes you calm, happy, and embrace the change.