You're more than half way through your pregnancy and at 6 months pregnant you're fast approaching the end of your second trimester. This is the time when new symptoms may arise. You'll already be familiar with your baby's movement by now with their kicks, jabs and rolls - sometimes it may feel light flutters, sometimes they will be more pronounced.
Your pregnancy may begin to feel like it's taking a toll on your body and you'll probably begin to feel a lot more tired, perhaps even hungrier as your bump grows, and bedtime may become a bit more uncomfortable at this stage.
How many weeks is 6 months pregnant?
At 6 months pregnant, you're now between 23 to 27 weeks pregnantand by next week you'll be heading into your third trimester which starts around 28 weeks pregnant.
6 months pregnant symptoms
While you might think that most symptoms appear in the first trimester, there are still some common symptoms you may be experiencing at this pregnancy stage:
Your growing belly and back pain
By six months you're likely to have a baby bump growing and be putting on weight, but don't worry if you can't see a big bump, as every pregnancy is different. With the growth and your centre of gravity changing, you may experience back pain in pregnancy. This all comes down to the softening of ligaments in your back and pelvis preparing you for labour which may contribute to the back pain. There are a few things you can do here to help alleviate any pain, such as wearing flat shoes, avoid standing or walking for long periods and start bending at the knees when picking stuff up. Consider having a pregnancy massage or even trying out some pregnancy yoga to help try and relieve some of the pain.
Swollen feet and ankles
It’s around now that you might notice your ankles, feet and hands becoming swollen. If you didn’t already have an excuse to put your feet up, you really do now, so get them up whenever you can and rest. Serious swelling is best raised with your midwife or GP as they can rule out pre-eclampsia during your pregnancy, which is a serious blood pressure condition.
Leg cramps
Sometimes at this stage leg cramps can be common, especially in the middle of the night. Stretching before bed and generally staying hydrated can help, although sadly won't prevent the cramps.
Pregnancy cravings
At this stage, your baby is growing rapidly so your appetite can go through the roof. You may feel hungry all the time or just a little more than usual. Your body needs extra nutrients and vitamins to support your baby's organs which can result in those weird pregnancy cravings we often hear about.
Make sure you don't deprive yourself but don't go overboard. The idea that you're eating for two isn't really true and you don't need to double your intake, but your body will need more nutrients in pregnancy. The NHS advice for pregnant women is to eat as healthy and balanced a diet as possible - the more colourful your plate looks the better. Some of the best foods to eat during pregnancy include spinach, oily fish, carrots, milk, mushrooms and meat with the occasional sweet or salty treat. You can speak to your midwife about diet and how many extra calories is recommended for you per day at this stage.
Snoring
Due to hormonal changes, pregnant women often experience snoring at this stage of pregnancy. High levels of oestrogen and progesterone cause the blood vessels in your nose to open wider as well as the swelling of your mucous membranes, which all this contributes to congestion and snoring.
Struggle sleeping
Getting a comfortable and good night's sleep during pregnancy is important but tossing and turning may take on a new meaning this month. It might be a tad early for sleeplessness yet, but it will kick in at some point and the reasons for it are delightfully varied and endless. If it’s not your bladder waking you up to be emptied, it’s simply that you just can't get comfortable.
Heartburn
Your uterus is growing and moving upwards from 6 months pregnant, this puts pressure on your stomach which can cause heartburn. Eating smaller meals more frequently may help subside this, as well as cutting out rich, fatty, spicy foods and caffeine. If you want to take over the counter heartburn medication, be sure you speak to your doctor or midwife first.
Feeling overheated
Extra blood is being pumped around your skin, which leads to an increase in body temperature. Try and opt for loose fitting clothes made of natural fibres to help with this.
Feeling faint
If you stand up and suddenly feel dizzy, sit down and wait until it passes. Lying on your back isn’t recommended, so try lying on your side if sitting down doesn’t help. Also, take your time when standing up and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Make sure you're getting enough iron too as sometimes a lack of it can cause fainting.
Constipation
Often down to hormonal changes and a growing uterus that puts pressure on the intestines, constipation can become uncomfortable. Drink lots of water and juice to get things moving faster through your system and soften your stool so it's easier to pass. Also try and stay active and exercise where possible.
Baby development at 6 months pregnant
Eye development
By now your baby's eyes will be developed enough to know the difference between light and dark. In a couple of weeks, they'll also be able to fully open their eyes. Also, your baby's eyelashes and eyebrows will have formed between 23 and 26 weeks pregnant but some babies can be born without eyebrows, or very fine hair.
Face
It's hard to believe that their tiny face, is almost fully formed complete with their features. Right now their hair will be white as there's no pigment yet. Their face will be very tender and still transparent but this won't last very long.
Plumping up
Throughout the sixth month, your baby will slowly start plumping up and storing fat. This will keep them warm after birth, help form their features and face too. As well as this, their muscles, organs and bones will be growing.
Size
At the beginning of this month your baby will start at the size of a carrot and grow to the size of an aubergine or around 7-12 inches and may weigh between 1 and 2 pounds.
Hearing
Your baby's hearing is rapidly developing which means they can hear your voice, any loud noises as well an any music or lullabies you play them.
Your body at 6 months pregnant
Baby bump
As your bump gets bigger, your centre of gravity will also start to change. This can take some adjustment, so it's important to move slowly when turning, as you might find yourself off balance. Weight wise, you can expect to put on around 1-2 pounds a week.
Tiredness
It's normal to start feeling tired. This can be due to the fact you're more restless when sleeping, and using more energy in the day. Try and take some time to sit down if you're on your feet a lot, and a little afternoon nap won't hurt.
Belly button
It's likely that your pregnant belly button has or will pop or begin to turn outward. This is down to the swelling uterus pushing everything out. This should go back to normal after birth.
Varicose veins
Some women may experience varicose veins during this stage due to increased blood volume and the growing uterus putting pressure on veins. They are usually harmless and may resolve after childbirth but can cause discomfort. Try and elevate your legs, avoid standing for long periods and try and exercise to keep the blood flowing.
Looking after yourself at 6 months pregnant
Exercise
One way to stay healthy during your pregnancy is to incorporate some exercise into your week, a walk counts too! Exercise is safe during pregnancy so you can try a calming yoga or Pilates session to stretch those aching muscles and make you feel relaxed. Remember to discuss with a GP or midwife before attempting any exercise you haven't done before. For example, it may not be advised to start running during pregnancy if you weren't a runner before.
Pelvic floor
Don't worry if you haven't started yet, you can start pelvic floor exercises at any time. You can do them at anytime and they help to prevent future issues such as incontinence. There are some apps you can download that will remind you to take the time to do these exercises on the go.
Antenatal classes
These classes offer several benefits. They provide expectant parents-to-be with crucial information and skills to prepare for labour, birth, and beyond. They are also a great way to connect with other like-minded parents and build a support network.
What to do at 6 months pregnant
Start a hypnobirthing course: if a hypnobirthing technique is something you might like to try you can find and book a spot on a hypnobirthing class.
Finding a doula: If you're keen for extra support during your pregnancy, now is the time to start researching for potential doulas.
Baby shower planning: The six-month pregnancy mark is a great time to plan your baby shower. It gives you something extra to look forward to before birth and gives you a chance to catch up with loved ones before busy parenting life begins.
Go on a babymoon: Have you considered having a babymoon? Usually taken during the second-trimester of pregnancy before it becomes unsafe to fly, a relaxing babymoon is a chance for you to enjoy a holiday with your partner before your baby arrives.
Prepare the nursery: You'll soon be in full-on nesting mode and when you are, you'll want your new arrivals nursery to be in order. You can do the bulk of the nursery now and worry about adding clothes and decorations when you start your maternity leave.
Baby names: This by far takes the longest time, so think carefully about the names you like. If you need some inspiration, check out these baby girl names and baby boy names.
Conclusion
You're more than half way through your pregnancy and as your baby's movements become more pronounced and regular, you'll start to feel a deeper connection especially now that they can hear your voice. While physical discomforts may increase, know that it is all temporary
FAQs 6 months pregnant
How does your stomach feel at 6 months pregnant?
As the uterus grows, so does the belly. This will cause the skin to stretch which can lead to stretch marks and itching. There is a feeling of clumsiness because the size of the belly begins to shift the body's centre of gravity forward.
How should I look at 6 months pregnant?
Everyone's pregnancy journey is different and while some women may obviously look pregnant because of the size of their bump, others may only show very slightly.
Should I stop working at 6 months pregnant?
As long as your pregnancy is relatively straight-forward and you aren't at a higher risk for pregnancy complications, it is fine to carry on working.
This article has been compiled using information, advice and guidance provided by the NHS.
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best and current trending products for little ones and for cute seasonal outfits.