Fast facts:
Each pregnancy and birthing experience is unique, both physically and emotionally. A second pregnancy often differs from the first in at least a few ways.
You won’t know exactly how your second pregnancy feels until you’ve experienced it, but it always helps to anticipate common challenges and prepare as much as you can.
From the timing of your baby bump to postpartum recovery, here’s what to expect the second (or third, fourth, etc.) time around.
You might start showing earlier since your abdominal muscles and uterus are already accustomed to stretching. For the same reason, some birthing people carry the baby lower during their second pregnancy.
There’s also a chance you’ll feel fetal movement earlier, in part because you’re likely more attuned to the physical sensations of pregnancy, including those little kicks.
For some women, breast soreness and sensitivity is more manageable with baby number two, but each person’s experience is different.
On the other hand, back pain may feel more intense, depending on how your muscles and center of gravity shifted during your first pregnancy. Pelvic pain is also more common with repeat pregnancies.
You will need the same basic screenings as last time, and prenatal appointments typically have the same frequency.
If you had any complications with your previous pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent or earlier monitoring.
Second pregnancy fatigue is real. You may not feel like you can give this pregnancy as much attention as your first, which is understandable: it’s a lot different to grow a baby while caring for one or more children.
Try to be gentle with yourself. The amount of mental energy you spend preparing for your second child’s arrival in comparison to your firstborn is not a reflection of your love for them.
It’s also understandable to have anxiety about navigating daily life with two or more children, or concerns about how your relationship with your other child may change. Preparing your child for their younger sibling’s arrival often makes for an easier transition.
Other parents of multiple children can be a wonderful resource. Don’t hesitate to ask friends what worked for them.
Labor can be shorter during a second vaginal birth. Since your cervix becomes more flexible during childbirth, cervical dilation and effacement may happen more quickly. Pushing during the second stage of labor may also take less time.
There is the potential for more frequent or more severe Braxton-Hicks contractions as you approach labor.
If you previously delivered by c section and are interested in a trial of labor for a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) or a home birth after cesarean (HBAC), discuss your options for both vaginal and c section delivery with your OB/GYN early in your pregnancy.
Preparation is as important as before, but how you prepare may be different. Some parents take childbirth classes as they approach their second labor and delivery.
Others feel equipped with enough information from their first birthing experience. Another option is a childbirth review class, which offers a quick refresh rather than a deep dive. All approaches are valid.
Ask A Doula by Ruth Health is a new service that offers unlimited texting access to a doula. You can get personalized support with postpartum planning, feeding, and anything else pregnancy or postpartum-related. Spaces are limited, so sign up today!
There’s a wide spectrum of postpartum experiences. For some, the second time around feels somewhat like familiar territory. For others, different challenges arise.
Some women feel more intense afterpains as the uterus shrinks back to its pre pregnancy size. (Warm packs, ice packs, and over-the-counter medications can help!)
Though social media makes it look easy to bounce back after pregnancy, that isn’t the reality for many individuals. It can be an even more gradual process with baby number two, since you likely have more on your plate.
There’s no rush, so try not to put added pressure on yourself. This is a time to slow down and take good care of your mind and body.
The breastfeeding journey is a unique bond between parent and child. It will inevitably feel at least a little different after each birth if you breastfeed more than once. For many individuals, that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.
If this is your second breastfeeding experience, the learning curve might be shorter. Still — and while we wish it were otherwise — no baby enters this world knowing how to perfectly latch.
Expect some trial and error at the start. You may already have a handle on your preferred breastfeeding positions, but each baby has preferences of their own.
If you encounter a new breastfeeding challenge with your second baby, support from a lactation consultant is invaluable.
Caring for a newborn while prioritizing time with your other child and your partner can be emotionally demanding, on top of your physical recovery. This is a big adjustment for the whole family.
There’s bound to be a learning curve here too as you enter this new chapter. Some days may be easier than others, and asking for support is key.
Ruth Health is here to provide you with evidence-based information and support about all things pregnancy and postpartum, so that you can make the best decisions for yourself.
Visit our resource hub for more on pregnancy, postpartum, and everything in between — and be sure to join our community by signing up below!
Sign up for a FREE eBook + 20% off services
Sign up for our free e-book, plus 20% off of your next booking!
