Pregnant with the second child? Think your pregnancy will be the
same as last time?
Think again. Most women experience
emotional and physical differences that make the second pregnancy
a whole new ball game. Here's what to expect:
*You'll be more tired.
During your first pregnancy, you could put your feet up. Now you're
potty training a toddler. One of the biggest second pregnancy differences
is that this time you're caring for a young child. Let the house
go and get Dad involved with the tyke. Discuss how you can share
parenting as the family grows.
*You'll worry about your
older child. Most women pregnant with the second baby fear losing
intimacy with their first child. Those tales of sibling rivalry
can make you feel guilty for even having another baby. With a little
effort, though, you can stay
close to your firstborn. And remember, a sibling is usually
a blessing, not a curse.
*You'll show sooner.
Break out that old maternity wardrobe! A woman pregnant with her
second child can expect to show a month earlier than she did the
first time around. You may be ready for those stretch pants long
before the second trimester.
*You won't record it.
Skip the guilt. Pregnancy journals are for first-timers. Being less
interested in your second pregnancy is natural. It isn't any indication
of how much you'll love your second child.
*You'll feel movement earlier.
A mom pregnant with her second child usually feels her baby move
at four months, compared to five for a woman pregnant for the first
time. Expect kicks sooner with this infant.
*You'll wonder about managing
two. Rest assured that you will handle the challenges ahead.
That toddler who is now throwing tantrums will also outgrow them.
Do, however, take the number of any babysitter with muscles.
*You may hog the bathroom.
Don't be surprised if you urinate more often this time. You'll be
carrying your second child lower than you did your first, resulting
in pressure on your bladder and perhaps back pain. Make extra pit
stops on that road trip.
*You'll deliver faster.
One of the best second pregnancy differences is that labor and delivery
are shorter this time. So don't dally on the way to the hospital.
Tell Dad to step on the gas!
(c) 2007 Jennifer Bingham Hull.
Reprint rights granted as long as the article is published in its
entirety, including the resource box and its live links.
About the Author
Want the real scoop on life after the second child?
Need help handling two small kids? Read the award-winning book Beyond
One: Growing a Family and Getting a Life by Jennifer
Bingham Hull. Visit www.growingafamily.com
to sign up for her free newsletter and find more tips.
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