If you've successfully birthed your firstborn and have recently thought about the idea of adding a second to your family, there are some things you should keep in mind.
Don't worry, moms! There's nothing negative on this list. We wholeheartedly support your decision, and urge you to add as many bundles of joy to your life as you can! We simply want to provide you with knowledge, wise words, and encouragement for your upcoming pregnancy and labor.
Here's our list of things to keep in mind about having your second baby:
1. Don't worry about the timing
There's no doubt that most moms can agree when I say that the schedule for your first baby didn't go as planned. It's easy to think, "I'll have my first kid when I'm (insert age), and my second when I'm..."
Well, that's not how things typically work in the real world. So, for sanity's sake, don't abide by a schedule or try to meet deadlines. There's no perfect time for a first child, and there's no perfect time for a second. When you're ready, you're ready!
2. The second time around will be vastly different
There are going to be some noticeable differences between your first pregnancy and your second. When you're pregnant with your first child, it seems like you have so much to learn and expect. Now that you've gone through this before, you may feel bit more familiar with the situation. Also, now that you're a mom, you only have to deal with the struggles of being pregnant, but also manage being a mommy to your firstborn. The challenges might be greater this time around, but because you're more experienced, some aspects of pregnancy might seem easier.
That's not all that will change, though. You may also notice that you'll show much sooner than your first pregnancy. But, hey, it's like they say, "no two pregnancies are alike." Just expect some significant differences.
3. You might worry about your firstborn
Now that there's a new baby on the way, there might be a lot to worry about when it comes to your firstborn. You may worry about explaining the idea of a new baby to your firstborn, saying goodbye to the days of having/spoiling an only child, or being able to love something just as much as your firstborn.
These troubles and worries are all in your head. Don't worry, everything will be just fine and your family will be happier and more loving than ever once baby number two arrives!
4. You're a seasoned vet now
As mentioned earlier, you've gained quite a bit of experience in the field of pregnancy. So, never doubt your yourself. This isn't your first rodeo, and you know what to expect of your body. Sure, nothing will truly be the same as your first pregnancy, but you've gone through this all before, and now you can say that your a seasoned veteran.
Being pregnant will never be easy, but you'll notice that you've matured and grown since your first pregnancy.
5. Labor should be much faster
This comes as good news to most mothers, and for many it's true! Birthing your second child should go much more smoothly and swiftly this time around. It's still childbirth, so expect nothing less...but at least you can expect it to be the slightest bit easier the second time!
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