Until recently, I was quite the smug individual regarding my first pregnancy. I found it baffling why so many women voiced complaints about their experiences. I was convinced that either I was exceptionally adept at handling pregnancy or that everyone else was just overly dramatic. Prolonged nausea? Stretch marks? Weight gain? Heartburn? Aches and pains? Clearly, these women were simply looking for reasons to complain, and I believed I possessed insights that they lacked.
How wrong I was.
Fast forward to now, and my second pregnancy has brought a slew of challenges. I’m feeling huge, uncomfortable, and achy, frequently visiting the doctor for various concerns—more in just a week than I did throughout my entire first pregnancy. It’s clear to me that this baby is a completely different entity than his brother. Here’s how this pregnancy has set itself apart:
Diet and Exercise
During my first pregnancy, I was diligent about my health. I walked daily, consumed plenty of salmon and spinach, and meticulously tracked my protein intake with a checklist of exercises to prepare for labor. I was, without a doubt, a bit insufferable.
This time around? My diet primarily consists of two food groups: anything that doesn’t make me nauseous and leftovers from my 3-year-old’s plate. My exercise routine mainly involves chasing after my toddler and making numerous trips to the bathroom each night.
Body Changes and Weight Gain
I hate to boast (actually, I don’t), but my first pregnancy left my body relatively unscathed. I gained 25 pounds and returned to my pre-pregnancy weight by my six-week checkup. I believed I had somehow avoided stretch marks through a mix of good genes and an expensive oil I applied twice daily.
This time? I stopped weighing myself after I reached my previous delivery weight—well before the end of the second trimester. As for stretch marks, let’s just say discussing them would lead me to an emotional spiral, so we’ll leave it at that.
The Birth Experience
I’ve always felt fortunate for the positive birth experience I had the first time. I never had that “get this baby out of me” urge, likely because labor began right on my due date. Despite my thorough preparation for a natural birth, which included 12 weeks of childbirth classes, I ended up needing an epidural and faced a humbling multi-day labor saga.
Now, I find myself anxious about how this birth will unfold. I’m equally terrified of having a premature baby and being induced for going too far past my due date. My perspective has shifted. I’ve learned from friends who faced challenges during childbirth that the process deserves respect rather than control. My goal this time is to check my ego at the door, surrender to whatever happens, and focus on ensuring both of us emerge safely.
Postpartum Recovery
My mom once told me, “You get one free pass. The first recovery is easy, but after that, it’s a tough journey.” And I can confirm that this time around, I will have my work cut out for me. I’ve already been advised about needing pelvic floor therapy (yes, it’s as glamorous as it sounds), and I suspect I’ll be carrying some other, less appealing souvenirs—hello, hemorrhoids—for a while.
Bringing forth and caring for new life is no small feat. I feel deeply grateful for the experiences I’ve had, and I acknowledge that having one healthy baby is a miracle. I find myself on my knees praying for that miracle once more.
This is my heartfelt plea, my apology for my previous arrogance, and a cautionary note for anyone who may relate: if your first pregnancy was easy, cherish it as a stroke of luck or a cosmic nudge to consider a second child. In my case, it may very well be both.
For those navigating similar paths, check out this resource on pregnancy week by week and explore insights on home insemination kits if you’re considering that journey. And for a heartwarming story about finding joy after challenges, visit this link.
Summary
My second pregnancy has humbled me in ways I never expected. From diet and exercise challenges to a more profound understanding of the birthing process, I share my journey and the lessons learned along the way.