Second Pregnancy and Baby

Hi, E., I'm so glad you asked this question, because I've been going through the same thing, and I was getting really worried! lol All the advice has come in handy! It's good to know you're not the only one going through these things! :)

I wonder if it has anything to do with varicose veins? My coworker had somewhat of an issue with them, and with her last 2 pregnancies, it affected the vagina. All the extra pressure and blood flow could really be the problem.

If you are carrying low then baby is putting pressure on all of your "parts." My #2 son was like this from month #6 on...I was uncomfortable as he was basically riding on my pubic bone (that is what if felt like.) Get lots of rest, wear your belly band and if you are still uncomfortable, ask your doc.

Hi E.,
I'm glad you posted this because I've been having the same issues. I have a 2-year old and, during that first pregnancy, I didn't feel any of the things that I'm feeling this time until I was at the very end of my pregnancy (if at all). This time I started feeling them at months 5 or 6, and am now due in 6 weeks. These feelings include the weight and pressure down low on my pubic bone, as you mention, in addition to some aches and pains in my groin muscles and ligaments in that same area. Yikes!

From what I understand it is because your body knows what to do this time and, therefore, goes back there much more quickly!!

I was instantly "showing" this time too, instead of not showing my distinct baby bump until month 6, which was the case the first time.

It's great to know that a support band or belt will help b/c I still have 6 weeks to go but it feels like the baby's coming any day w/out that kind of support!! ;-)

Re: a new childbirth class, I'm not going to take one due to time constraints, and because I can't believe that anything would have changed in only two years.

If you're worried about it though, a shorter-length refresher course would be ideal...

Thanks again for posting!
D.

I would ask your OB about the pressure. If the belly band helps keep wearing it!

As far as the childbirth class. The hospital you are registered to give birth at should offer free childbirth classes including a refresher for 2nd time moms. I would suggest to take the refresher, it may help!

Good luck!

It sounds like to me like you should get off your feet as much as possible for the next little while. If you're feeling pressure and possible swelling put your feet up and you'll find that helps. Don't walk unless you have your belly band on. All the muscles down there are softer than the first time around so don't stand up a ton.

My first one was 2 weeks late after an easy pregnancy and my 2nd was 6 weeks early after a normal pregnancy. I did feel alot of pressure with him. My 3rd I always felt like he was going to fall out whenever I stood up. Your muscles are not as tight was with the first one so they are not as good at keeping the baby supported.

Wear your belly band and if it really concerns you, talk to your doctor. He can check you at any time. All you have to do is ask!

I think you may be stuck with the pain. I'm sure you're having to carry around your 2 year old, which doesn't help. I've had four kids and that pain/pressure gets worse with each one. I think that just comes with the territory. Keep using the belly band if that gives some relief.

Do you get an epidural or deliver naturally? I had epidurals with all of mine, so I didn't feel like retaking the childbirth class was necessary. I didn't need to remember how to breathe or focus or anything like that. Also, the labor and delivery nurse I had was very good at teaching and instructing me in what I needed to know at the time. I personally wouldn't retake the class.

Good luck and congratulations!

A refresher course for childbirth would be nice. The pain thing is something I had some of. Stay off your feet, lying down if you can, is helpful. It just goes to prove that every pregnancy is different.

First of all...

Happy Mother's Day and congratulations on soon becoming a doubly blessed mom!

This baby may be causing you discomfort the baby may be positioned differently or it could just be your body's reaction to this pregnancy. You said that the belly band helped, does it relieve the pain in it's entirety or just partially?

If partially, they do have bands that are more structurally made for those with more than "average" issues. have you spoken to your doctor about this problem? I'd definitely call if you haven't spoken of this yet.

As for a childbirth class, not much has changed...if you remember it all. There are refresher classes that you can take if you choose. Another option would be to rent some of the DVDs that are out that speak about birth. It totally depends on the type of birth you are looking for.

When I am counseling my clients, I typically prepare them for a natural birth before anything else because no matter what type of birth is desired, they are ready and know what to expect. If a mom is hoping for a medicated birth and for some reason that is not available to her, going natural would be a very scary situation. However, if she already knows what to do to for a natural birth, she is prepared for anything.

I don't offer classes but if you are interested, I'd be more then happy t talk to you about the birth you are looking for and making sure you remember what you need.

Good luck with the discomfort you are feeling and hopefully a stronger band will work for you. Just don't forget to tell your doctor about this!

Hello Mamma E,
I had some major vaginal pain with my second as well. Especially at night when sleeping and turning from one side to another. It is perfectly normal & apparently it will resume with all future pregnancies. I believe it's just our uterus getting ready for another baby & making our hips wider at the same time. I also considered taking a refresher course, however, I never found the time. Since every pregnancy is different, just trust yourself & don't second guess yourself. I was in labor with my first for 22 hours & was in labor with the second for only 2 hours! So, unless you feel out of your skin, I believe you'll be just fine.

Hi E.,

I totally know what you mean about that pain. I had it with my daughter and unfortunately could not find anything that seemed to relieve it except for maybe laying down. Uggghhh! Makes me hurt just thinking about it. I had it for about 8 weeks after delivery, too! Best of luck to you you!

Sleep with thick pillow between your knees - really relieves pressure.

Never used a belly belt but when you lift your belly it relieves pressure. Hang in there, how soon we forget the aches and pains!!!

I remember that pressure/pain vividly, although it has been a year and a half since i've felt it. For me, it didn't go away until i gave birth, the doctor suggested resting, putting my feet up, lying down if possible but i was unable to do this because i had other small children to take care of so i just suffered through it. Also, i don't think another class is necessary, i had my second 2 years later and everything went smoother and faster than the first time. Good luck!