Text: Natalie Egling. Photography: Gallo Images/Getty Images; Elite Photo Agency-Hutterstock. Article from the October 2012 issue of Living and Loving Magazine.
Your first foray into motherhood was all new, but what can you expect when you have your next child?
The arrival of another child brings extra responsibility, new feelings, and more questions you’ll want answered. Although you may feel overwhelmed at the thought of what a second child could bring, your focus will be on staying healthy and energetic through this pregnancy.
Not only will you be all too aware that the little luxuries you enjoyed with your first pregnancy – afternoon naps, plenty of time to read up on your pregnancy, and really focus on yourself – are a thing of the past, but now, regardless of how you’re feeling, you’ll need to continue to care for your toddler.
Possibly the greatest benefit of a second pregnancy is the confidence you’re likely to feel from having done it already.
“A calmer, more confident feeling is a good thing, and often improves the bonding between mom and baby,” says clinical psychologist Liesl Vogt. “Second children are often more relaxed and adventurous for this very reason, as they pick up on their mom’s calm state.”
Your body
Hormonal changes affect almost every organ system in your body. Some pregnancy symptoms can be more pronounced in a second pregnancy. However, as with first pregnancies, everyone will experience it differently. Here’s what may change:
Earlier bump – Your womb has expanded once already, and your abdominal muscles are less toned, so it’s normal for your waistline to expand sooner. You may need maternity clothes a bit earlier, but this doesn’t mean that you’ll carry larger this pregnancy.
Foetal movements – You’ll probably feel these earlier because of the growth of your womb, and this time you’re more likely to recognise what you’re feeling.
Energy levels -This pregnancy won’t make you any more tired than your first did. However, you’ll have to cope with the physical demands of pregnancy while also caring for a toddler. Getting extra rest is also harder, and you’ll probably find you’ll be less doted on by friends and family, too.
“If you were high risk in your first pregnancy, you may need to have more antenatal visits this time.”
Planning ahead
Senior midwife Karen Powles says, “Pregnancy places a lot of strain on a woman’s body, so it’s always best to conceive at your optimal health.
It’s not advisable to carry excess weight gained from your first pregnancy, as this would increase the risk of hypertension and diabetes.
Being overweight can also cause pre-eclampsia, a serious condition that has foetal complications, like low birth weight, premature birth or stillbirth. A body mass index (BMI) of over 30 puts you at risk. You can ascertain your BMI on the Internet.
Senior midwife Sister Nicolette Barkhuizen says:
“A healthy diet and exercise regime will make it easier to conceive and help you during your pregnancy. And for that added boost, start taking your multivitamins and folic acid before you become pregnant. By doing this, you’re making sure your unborn baby gets the much-needed nutrients from the start, and it will also help to keep your energy levels up so you’re not over-tired from running after your toddler.”
Keeping to a schedule
Senior midwife Sister Nicolette Barkhuizen advises the following appointment schedule:
“Appointments depend on your current health and your health in your previous pregnancy.
“If you were high risk or had problems in your first pregnancy, you may need to have more antenatal visits this time.
“The norm for healthy first pregnancies is an antenatal appointment every four weeks until the start of your third trimester; every two weeks from 29 to 36 weeks; then weekly until birth – around 10 antenatal appointments. For your second and subsequent pregnancies, it’s usually about seven antenatal appointments.”
As a seasoned mom, you’re built to do this – and you can! If you’re feeling fearful, remember that the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow in the form of another child and a sibling for your toddler, is well worth the effort.
Questions and answers
Q I still remember the pain of labour so vividly. How can I cope with the fear as I progress in my second pregnancy?
A “Unfortunately there will be pain and discomfort, and for some moms, this even prevents them from considering a second child,” says Vogt. “Discussing pain relief with your midwife or gynaecologist will help you a great deal.
It’s normal however to fear something that was unpleasant or painful before, but take it as an opportunity to learn for the next time around.”
Q How can I ensure equal time and attention for my toddler and newborn?
A “Have a plan,” says psychologist, Susan Newman. “When the baby naps, engage with your toddler or, better still, enlist your partner or relatives to help you.”
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