Why is my second pregnancy SO different from my first?
You’ve been through pregnancy once, so you might think, “Hey, I’ve got this!” But surprise! Your second (or third or fourth) pregnancy can feel like a whole new ball game. Don’t worry, you’re not imagining things—many pregnant folks notice BIG differences the second time around. Here’s why:
1. You’re showing sooner.
Wait, wasn’t it supposed to take a while for the bump to pop? This time, your body’s like, “We’ve done this before,” and your abdominal muscles give in a little quicker. Exciting if you want to show off your bump—but maybe less fun if you’re keeping things under wraps for now. But it’s normal, I promise!
2. You’re more tired.
Yep, blame this one on the tiny human you’re already chasing around! Unlike last time, you’re busy with your firstborn, who couldn’t care less about your nap needs. Plus, you might be a little older (no big deal!), which makes that pregnancy fatigue even more noticeable.
3. Baby’s kicking earlier.
Remember how you thought those first little flutters were just gas last time? Now, you know better—it’s your baby moving! You’re a pro at recognizing the dance party going on in there.
4. Aches and pains show up early.
Your body’s like, “Oh yeah…I remember this,” so some of those aches, pains, and even contractions might start earlier this time around. It’s okay to slow down—let your toddler walk or get creative with floor time so you’re not lifting them as much. Get those prenatal massages. Listen and honor what your body needs.
5. Guilt, anyone?
You felt totally ready with your first, but now you’re wondering: Will this new baby shake up your family’s groove? Will your firstborn feel left out? Spoiler: Almost every parent feels this way! Talking to friends and family who’ve gone from one to two will help you realize it’s completely normal, and you’re doing great.
6. Feeling less connected to this baby.
You might worry about loving this new baby as much as your first. But remember how you couldn’t quite grasp parental love until your first was born? It’s similar this time: you’ll bond with this baby –maybe differently — and that’s okay.
7. Nesting? What’s that?
With your first, maybe you had the nursery decorated and the registry done before you hit 20 weeks. This time? You haven’t even thought about it, and you’re nearing your due date! Don’t stress—babies really don’t need that much, and your littlest one won’t mind at all.
8. Did I miss a prenatal appointment?
Life is busy with a little one, work, school runs, and all the chaos in between! Sometimes you might almost forget you’re pregnant—oops. Just remember to breathe, stay on top of those appointments, and give this pregnancy the attention it deserves.
9. Where are the belly pics?
Your first pregnancy had weekly bump pictures and a perfectly curated album. This time? You’ve snapped two…maybe three selfies. Life’s busy, I get it! Set a reminder to take some photos every now and then—you’ll thank yourself later.
10. You’re less stressed (Finally!).
The unknowns of your first pregnancy had you stressed and googling everything. Now? You’re a seasoned pro. You know you can handle labor, sleepless nights, and messy diaper situations like a boss. You’ve got this!
Until next time,
Dr. Jen