You made it through one pregnancy, so a second should be no problem, right? Although this seems like common sense, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Experienced moms with multiple pregnancies, deliveries, and babies under their belts can attest to the fact that every pregnancy is different. Predicting how pregnancy number 2 will play out is impossible: That’s where these survival tips come in!
Be prepared for new sensations.
As much as you might be dreading them, it’s a good idea to reacquaint yourself with pregnancy symptoms. At the same time, note that there are likely to be some differences between your first pregnancy and your second. For example, the Mayo Clinic reports that your breasts might show fewer changes, but your bump might show earlier. You might feel baby’s motions earlier too!
If you had complications during your first pregnancy, know that they might return.
If you had gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, or any other complications during your first pregnancy, it is possible that they might return during your second pregnancy. The good news is that you now know what to watch for, and that you have developed strategies for coping, if necessary. Reduce associated stress by sharing your concerns with your doctor before any problems arise.
Remember how you coped during your first pregnancy.
How did you deal with your sore back? What helped keep your feet from swelling? Which foods made you feel good? Recalling some seemingly insignificant details can help you feel more comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
Prep your body for labor, delivery, and postpartum demands.
Many women find that their bodies recover more slowly from the second pregnancy than from the first. Ask your doctor if it’s OK to exercise, and then enjoy the process of building your strength. You can take your current child on walks with you or even get him or her involved in your prenatal yoga routine, making fitness more fun and for the second time around, a dual girdle should help you even when exercising isn’t an option, that’s why so many turn to a postpartum girdle from Bellefit.
Consider taking a refresher labor and delivery course.
If it’s been a while since you had your first child, consider signing yourself and your partner up for labor and delivery courses. Be sure to practice your breathing and kegels just like you did during your first pregnancy.
Plan for childcare ahead of your expected due date.
Make plans as early as you can, and you’ll alleviate some of the third-trimester stress that comes with adding a new baby to an already-busy household. Grandma, an aunt, or even a family friend might be willing to stay with your first child while you’re at the hospital.
Let some things go.
Let your toddler watch more TV so you can relax. Let up on the housework (just a little) if you’re exhausted, or hire someone else to help out once a week. Allow your first child to eat more convenience foods, or pre-pack snacks all at once so you have a little less work to do each day. Cutting a few insignificant corners can help a lot, so consider easing up!
Look forward to shorter labor.
While it’s not always the case, your second visit to the labor and delivery department might be shorter than the first. This is definitely something to look forward to!
Know that love is an unlimited resource.
Many second-time moms are worried about whether they’ll have enough love to share with a new baby. Love is something that expands and grows. Your second child will be just as precious as your first – and it will be a lot of fun to share all the new experiences together.
Have fun preparing child number one for life as an older sibling.
It can be a lot of fun to share your pregnancy with your first child, and bond over how much your family will love having a new baby to care for. Read special stories to prepare for baby’s arrival, teach songs, and make this time special. It’s one of the best things about pregnancy number two!
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