Second pregnancies often bring unique experiences that differ from the first. Recognizing the signs of a second pregnancy can help you prepare to stay healthy, comfortable, and ready to welcome a new family member.
Read more below.
What Are the Signs of a Second Pregnancy?
One of the key differences between a first and second pregnancy is that the baby bump becomes visible more quickly. In a first pregnancy, the belly usually starts to grow during the second trimester, while in a second pregnancy, it may happen as early as the first trimester.
This is normal, due to “changes in muscles and ligaments from the first pregnancy,” explains Sara Holt, CNM, MS, CAS, PMH-C, midwife and owner of Byenvini Baby. “The rectus abdominis muscles, which previously stretched, tend to give way more quickly. This causes the uterus to move forward and become ‘visible’ earlier in the second (or third, or fourth) pregnancy. Additionally, the abdominal skin is less tight, which makes the bump show sooner.”
Here are some signs of a second pregnancy that are often different from the first:
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The baby bump becomes visible more quickly, since your abdominal muscles and uterus have already stretched during the first pregnancy and are looser this time.
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You may feel more aches, pains, and pressure, especially in the pelvic area. “The abdominal muscles and uterine ligaments are looser and less able to support the growing uterus compared to the first pregnancy,” explains Julie Charlton, CNM, a certified midwife at Pediatrix Medical Group in Atlanta, Georgia. “The ligaments attached to the uterus—especially the round ligaments on either side of the lower abdomen and the broad ligaments attached to the sacrum—can be more uncomfortable for mothers in their second pregnancy.”
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You may feel more tired, possibly because you’re also caring for your first child and still recovering from your first delivery, especially if the pregnancies are close together.
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Baby movements are felt earlier and more strongly, as the abdominal wall and muscles are more relaxed, allowing the baby to move more freely.
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Your belly may sit lower, since your uterine muscles are not as strong as before, and because the second (or third or fourth) baby may likely be larger than your first.
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Braxton Hicks contractions may appear earlier and feel more intense, due to increased body awareness. If you experience painful contractions before 36 weeks of pregnancy, you should immediately contact your midwife or doctor.
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Labor may be quicker and easier.
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Recovery after childbirth may be different from the first time, often more intense as the uterus returns to its original size.
How to Know If You’re Pregnant
You can recognize pregnancy by paying attention to these early signs:
- Missed period
- More frequent urination
- Feeling tired in early pregnancy
- Nausea and vomiting morning, noon, or night (morning sickness)
- Breast tenderness
Other possible pregnancy symptoms include:
- Spotting or implantation bleeding
- Food cravings or aversions
- Headaches
- Cramps
- Mood swings
- Nasal congestion
- Bloating
- Acne or skin changes
Frequently Asked Questions About the Signs of a Second Pregnancy
Will my breasts not be sore in a second pregnancy?
No, your breasts may still be sore, though the pain may be less intense compared to your first pregnancy.
What are the signs of a second pregnancy before a missed period?
They are generally the same as the first pregnancy: fatigue, breast tenderness, nausea, food cravings or aversions, frequent urination, and mood swings.
What does it feel like in the second trimester (TM2) of a second pregnancy?
Common symptoms include reduced nausea and fatigue, a growing belly, feeling the baby’s movements earlier (between weeks 16 and 20), round ligament pain, heartburn, constipation, back pain, dizziness, and stretch marks.
Every pregnancy brings a new experience. The signs of a second pregnancy often include faster physical changes and sometimes more intense discomfort. This is natural, considering your responsibilities and activities also increase.
Don’t hesitate to ask for family support and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. With good preparation, you can still enjoy a healthy and happy second pregnancy.
Originally published on theAsianparent Indonesia
