There has always been a huge debate about whether the second or third pregnancy is easier or more complicated than the first one. The experiences of mothers have been divided on this topic with some citing that their second pregnancy was easier on their bodies while some say that it took a major toll on their health.
Talking to the Onlymyhealth team Dr Sucheta Parte, Consultant, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lulla Nagar, Pune said that subsequent pregnancies can be both easier and more complicated than the first one, depending on a few key factors:
Age Of The Female
Dr Parte said, “Younger women may have an easier time with subsequent pregnancies, as their bodies are more adaptable. Women over the age of 35 may face more complications in subsequent pregnancies, as the body's ability to adapt can decrease with age.”
Here are some complications that may arise in older women during their second or third pregnancy:
- Miscarriage
- Stillbirth
- Gestational diabetes. As per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, gestational diabetes is a common condition where the blood sugar increases swiftly during the pregnancy, which can adversely affect the pregnancy and also the development of the baby.
Previous Obstetric History
“If the previous delivery was a normal, uncomplicated vaginal birth, subsequent pregnancies are often easier as the body has already been through the process,” Dr Parte explained. However, if the previous delivery was a Caesarean section (C-section), subsequent pregnancies may be more complicated, she explained. “The risk of complications like placental issues or uterine rupture increases with each C-section,” she added.
What matters here is the cause of why the C-section had to be performed.
Cause Of The Previous C-Section
“If the C-section had to be performed for a recurring issue like a contracted pelvis, another C-section is very likely needed during the next pregnancy. But if it was for a one-time reason like a malposition of the baby or premature rupture of membranes, in that case, a vaginal birth can be tried if the baby is of normal weight and the C-section scar is thick,” said Dr Parte.
However, this is not a reason for you to not go through a subsequent pregnancy. C-section can have their benefits also. Dr Parte listed:
- The mother or pregnant woman is prepared in advance as they already have previous experience with a C-section delivery which can be highly beneficial.
- They also have the medical knowledge like when to visit the hospital after a membrane rupture or water breakage, and how to ease pregnancy pain.
- Their body has undergone tremendous changes such as wear and tear during the first pregnancy, and going through a vaginal birth again can be exhausting.
Dr Parte concluded that medical complications that were experienced during the first pregnancy, may increase the potential risk of experiencing the same problems or complications in their future pregnancies. She advised expecting women to be cautious and take necessary precautions to avoid complications such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes.