3 Tips for Your Second Pregnancy
You’ve got this; rest in your experiences.
by Jess Wartinger
Nov 29, 2017
There’s no doubt about it, finding out that you’re pregnant for a second (or third, fourth, etc) time can bring along a myriad of feelings. From excitement to shock, and everything in-between, all emotions are fair game when grappling with life-changing news.
One thing you may be wondering is how you’ll cope with chasing around a young child while taking care of yourself during this pregnancy. While every family is unique, finding time to take a break, asking for help, and resting on your parenthood experiences are essential for approaching your second pregnancy.
3 Tips for a Second Pregnancy
Tip #1: Time to Take a Break
During your first pregnancy, you were likely able to sit down and relax each day (or even take a nap) when fatigue started to creep in. Throughout your second pregnancy, you’ll need to be a bit more creative when finding opportunities to rest.
While most second trimesters are carefree, the first and third trimesters can be exhausting. Add in chasing after older siblings and it can seem impossible to find a chance to put your feet up.
Consider having a consistent schedule that allows for moments when Mommy isn’t the main attraction. A rest time for all ages, an independent project for the kids such as drawing or coloring, and even a short screen time will give you the opportunity to take a moment to recharge.
Tip #2: Ask for Help
For many first-time pregnancies, Dads are extremely involved. Attending appointments, catering to food cravings, and settling up the nursery are all tasks Dads eagerly enjoy.
Second pregnancies can become a bit tricker, as now there’s a little person to take care of as well as a baby to prepare for. It’s easy for Moms and Dads to become overwhelmed while trying to shift home responsibilities. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the daily tasks of working, keeping a home, and caring for a little one, ask for help.
Look for someone who is available to lend a hand once a week to lighten your load. Your husband, a relative, or even a friend who might be able to do a chore or two, cook a meal, or take your child for a playdate. These small acts of kindness will make a huge difference as you’re longing for a moment to rest.
Tip #3: Rest in Your Experience
You may be anxious about adding a new member to your family.
Perhaps you’re asking yourself: How will giving birth differ this time around? Will I have enough time and energy for each of my children? How will I balance life with another child?
One of the best things about not being a first-time mother is that you have experience. You’ve given birth before, learned how to do life with a newborn, and figured out what routines work for your family. These experiences strengthen you as a Mama.
Rest in the confidence that you have done this. You may choose to try something different this time around, but you have successfully made it through each of the pregnancy and babyhood experiences. As a second-time Mama, you no longer simply have 'book knowledge', but a whole host of experiences to draw from.
Congratulations, Mama, on your growing family.
Jess Wartinger
Jess Wartinger resides in rural New York with her husband and five children. Formerly an early elementary teacher, Jess currently spends her time loving her kids and holding down the fort at home.
