Second Pregnancy – Know the Signs and Symptoms

4 min read

Written by Editorial Team

Editorial Team

With a rich experience in pregnancy and parenting, our team of experts create insightful, well-curated, and easy-to-read content for our to-be-parents and parents at all stages of parenting..

signs and symptoms of second pregnancy

Having a baby is quite an incredible experience. While the arrival of the first baby brings in immense joy, the arrival of the second baby is no less a memorable experience. By your second pregnancy, you are already a hands-on mother knowing what to do, when to do, how to do, and how not to do. But did you know that the signs and symptoms of your second pregnancy can be quite different from your first one?

Every pregnant woman is different, and every pregnancy is different too. Various factors such as the hormones, symptoms, and experiences change from the first pregnancy to the second. This article throws light on what you can expect from your second pregnancy, how it differs from your first, and how your signs and symptoms can indicate that you are pregnant.

In This Article

What Are the Symptoms of a Second Pregnancy?
How Soon Can Symptoms be Felt?
Are the Chances of Early Labor More This Time?
Are There Any Complications?
Tips For a Healthy Pregnancy

What Are the Symptoms of a Second Pregnancy?

Most of the signs and second pregnancy symptoms will be the same as the first, but there’s no hard and fast rule. As said, each pregnancy is unique and might come with its reliefs and obstacles. It also differs from woman to woman. For some, complications and problems faced in the first pregnancy might appear again. Here’s what you need to look out about early symptoms and the main differences between both the times:

The bump is visible much earlier in 2nd pregnancy.
Certain blood vessels and muscles might also be weakened and cause pelvic pain and backache. This is one of the reasons why it is suggested to take at least a three years gap.
Some might feel tired and nauseous as they are already taking care of one child.
You might exhaust more than in their first pregnancy.
You might even experience similar or more food cravings.
Averseness to some foods
You might gain faster than the first pregnancy because the body has already undergone many changes. This weight might also be challenging to lose.
Due to hormonal changes and stress, you might feel heightened emotions irrespective of the number of pregnancies.
Baby kicks also might occur quicker this time.
Tenderness of breasts.
The pregnancy belly also differs as women might carry the baby low during the second time.
You might notice fetal movement earlier than last time.

[Read : Effective Tips to Cure Morning Sickness In Second Pregnancy]

How Soon Can Symptoms be Felt?

girl touching the bump of her pregnant mother

Wondering when do you start showing with second pregnancy or how early do you start showing with 2nd pregnancy? The chances are that this pregnancy starts showing early. This might be because of weak abdominal muscles from the first pregnancy. The breast also becomes tender sooner than in the first pregnancy. You may not also feel the need to have a pregnancy test because you might already notice the signs and symptoms earlier on your own. One can detect signs as soon as two weeks.

Are the Chances of Early Labor More This Time?

second pregnancy- women in labor pain
The labor time is shorter this time as your body has already undergone this once. Your cervix might dilate already. The labor time lasts for an average of five hours to twelve hours and not more. The pushing stage might also be easy and might last for less than two hours.

[Read : Common Complications Of The Second Pregnancy]

Are There Any Complications?

The second baby’s first trimester can be tough. Pregnancies are delicate, and it is best to avoid any complications and take precautions. Contact a doctor if you feel or notice anything unusual.

Issues of gestational diabetes might occur. It is a common type of diabetes that happens during pregnancy.
The probability of complications like the risk of placental or postpartum hemorrhage might increase. These conditions occur in women who have multiple pregnancies.
At times, these diseases can be life-threatening if proper care is not taken.
It is advisable to contact a doctor as soon as unusual bleeding or any other symptoms are visible.
If you got your first baby through c-section delivery, it is best to get the second one in the same way rather than attempting a vaginal birth.

Tips For a Healthy Pregnancy

Tips For a Healthy Second Pregnancy

It is very important for an expectant mother to take good care of herself:

The first and foremost thing to do is taking proper rest. Midday naps are most recommended, but if that’s not possible, then try going to bed early.
Take a good diet and include all the nutrients in your diet.
Add folic acid to your diet.
Drink plenty of water and fluids.
Also, keep visiting the doctor for regular check-ups and physical examinations. If you take proper care of yourself, you will take appropriate care of your baby.
It also becomes essential to spend some quality time with your firstborn so that s/he does not feel left out.
It is also essential to keep your body moving a little and be fit. Do yoga, meditation, or some exercise to keep your body healthy and fit.
Check for vaccinations and when you have to take them. It is vital to plan schedules for vaccinations.

Second-baby pregnancy is easy for most women as the body is already equipped with the changes after the first pregnancy. Take a healthy diet and practice a healthy lifestyle to have a healthy baby. Still, it is best to look out for anything unusual to avoid complications. Be patient and calm, and you will have a smooth pregnancy.

Editorial Team,

With a rich experience in pregnancy and parenting, our team of experts create insightful, well-curated, and easy-to-read content for our to-be-parents and parents at all stages of parenting.Read more.

Already Pregnant?

Your Body