If there's one thing you can count on in a second pregnancy, it's that it will not be "just like" your first. Sure, the same things will happen, such as morning sickness, back pain, and other general pregnancy discomforts. But it may not happen during the same month, or it may be worse, or it may be better. And the most important difference is that you have another child to take care of during your pregnancy.
Here are some things I've learned and can pass along to you as my second pregnancy draws (hopefully soon) to a close.
Slow down. As impossible as that may seem (and as impossible as it may be to do), it is important to take your time and relax. Now is not the time to organize a city wide garage sale (unless you have plenty of help) or to undertake additional responsibilities. I was so busy chasing my 3-year-old son around, I didn't have time to do anything else. Your first child will keep you busy enough to wear you out plenty.
Eat right. This is a difficult thing to do even with a first pregnancy, and again, your first child will be keeping you so busy it may be tempting to skip breakfast or short yourself on nutrients at lunch or dinner. It is especially difficult when you work or go to college. Take time to eat a healthy breakfast and to pack a decent lunch, and if you stay home, use your older child's creativity to plan out healthful lunches. And always have a backup, boring meal plan that your child will always eat if you are ill or too tired to conjure up a magnificent meal. Ours was, and still is, grilled cheese sandwiches and a can of vegetables. Boring, but easy and good for you.
Rest, and rest often. If you stay home with your child during the day, and he or she still takes a nap, lay down when he or she does, even if there are things to do around the house. Other times, you may have to enlist help from your husband to rest, or, if you're single, plant him or her in the bedroom with books, puzzles, or toys and nap with him or her right there. Even simply laying down for a half hour after dinner will do you a world of good.
Spend quality time with your older child. This should be something you already do with your child. It is especially important to establish a routine where he or she spends some one-on-one time with you and your spouse on a daily basis. Continue this special time after your baby is born.
Plan. Before the baby is born, plan on some activities you can do with your older child and baby. Walks are always a favorite of ours. I also plan on reading to our older son while I breastfeed our younger one. And you can plan on having your child "help" you with the baby. Even a two-year-old can be taught to retrieve diapers and washcloths for the baby's care. Make him or her feel like they are really helping you care for "their" baby.
Just remember, you are creating a family life that your children will always remember. Show them as much love as you possibly can each and every day, and encourage discussions and communication when something is going wrong (or even when things are going right).
Get your own Free Home Page