Second Pregnancy: How Is It Different From The First?

There can be many questions that come up when it comes to your second pregnancy. You will probably be very eager to get answers to your uncertainties. But don’t worry, as your second pregnancy progresses, many of these differences will begin to manifest themselves.

Not all babies have the same needs. Therefore, it is common for mothers to encounter different situations with each pregnancy.

This should be kept in mind during your second pregnancy. You may also experience big differences between the birth of your first baby and your second. 

9 differences between your first and your second pregnancy

The differences are usually very noticeable. Think back to the symptoms and discomfort you experienced during your first pregnancy.

This simple reminder will reveal a lot about how different your current pregnancy is. Below are some of the most noticeable differences:

More exhaustion

Your second pregnancy will make you feel more exhausted. This can sometimes be a tedious experience as you notice that you are neglecting things that were easy to do during your first pregnancy. 

It could also be that you spend less time maintaining your physical appearance, or spend less time exercising.

Weight gain

You probably will not put on as much weight during your second pregnancy as you did during the first one. But don’t worry, this will not have any negative effects on your baby.

It is actually very common for baby number two to weigh more than their older siblings. 

Less stress

You will most likely be more relaxed this time. This is because you already have knowledge of the process that awaits you. This also applies to the birth itself. The arrival of the new baby is less frightening when you have already experienced it before.

Different physical transformation

The way your body changes during your second pregnancy will be different than your first. Your stomach will most likely start to be more visible earlier than before.

This is because your skin and muscles have already undergone this process, so it will be easier for them to expand. The result is that you will start to look pregnant earlier than before.

More discomfort

A woman’s second pregnancy often comes with symptoms and discomfort that she did not experience during the first.

You will have more back pain and more varicose veins will occur. These problems arise due to the pre-existing stretching of joints and blood vessels.

Easier birth

The birth of child number two is usually shorter as you expand faster. Your interior structure is more relaxed and flexible, which also speeds up the process.

Breastfeeding

It makes it easier for you to adapt to your other baby’s needs, as you already have experience with breastfeeding. You will be able to observe that your breasts are also ready. 

Minor postpartum depression

You have already been blessed with an abundance of experience since you are already a mother. This will help you feel more confident this time. It also helps you to overcome the hormonal process that occurs after childbirth. 

More painful recovery

It takes longer for the uterus to return to its original size after the second pregnancy. This process can be very painful during the first 3-4 days after birth. 

Necessary Precautions You Should Take During Your Second Pregnancy

Just because you’ve already been through it once before, does not mean you should not be careful during your second pregnancy. The same recommendations that were valid during the first pregnancy are still important during the second.

• Go to all doctor visits: Seeing your doctor regularly during pregnancy is an important way to monitor your baby’s development. Medical professionals will be able to give you indications of what to avoid and what to do during these months.
• Eat healthy: It is important that you maintain healthy eating habits for both you and your baby. Your diet should include foods that provide vitamins and nutrients such as folic acid.

• Be active: There are many activities that can keep you active and avoid fatigue. For example: Yoga, Pilates, walking and swimming.
• Stay hydrated: Doctors recommend that pregnant women drink 2 liters of water every day. Dehydration has consequences, so always have a bottle of water nearby.
• Avoid bad habits: Unhealthy habits such as drugs, tobacco and alcohol are especially dangerous for your baby’s development.
• Stay away from raw foods: Unprocessed foods increase your risk of bacterial infection.
• Do Squeeze Exercises: It can help you have an easier birth if you make these exercises a part of your daily routine.

Your previous experience with pregnancy and childbirth will no doubt be practical when you are expecting your second child. But keep in mind that every pregnancy is unique and every baby has different needs.

Try to avoid becoming too confident, but be open to learning new things.