Your second pregnancy: What to expect

Did your first pregnancy go smoothly, or was it a difficult experience? Will your second pregnancy be different?

Emotions during your second pregnancy

Every pregnancy is unique. If your first pregnancy was difficult, you may feel nervous about the second. However, your second pregnancy may not be the same as the first. Some women find that their second pregnancy helps reconcile them with this stage of life, because they feel so good. Conversely, it is possible to have a great first pregnancy and struggle during the second.

Women are generally more confident during a second pregnancy because they know what to expect. However, they may also worry about going through the same difficult experiences they had the first time. For example, you may feel more anxious because you’re thinking about certain symptoms you had during your first pregnancy, a worrisome ultrasound scan, the pain of childbirth, or a difficult homecoming.

When your first child was born, you gradually adapted to your new role as a mother and found a new balance as a family. Knowing that the arrival of your second baby will upset this balance can bring up all kinds of emotions.

For example, you may worry that you won’t be able to handle it, or you may feel restless, anxious, or uncomfortable with the upcoming changes. You may also feel guilty or sad if you feel less available for your first child.

Getting out for a walk, writing down your thoughts, worries, and emotions, and talking to someone you trust about what you’re going through can help you feel better. If you notice that your anxiety level is very high and persists at the idea of getting through this second pregnancy, talk to your doctor, midwife, nurse practitioner, or counselling professional.

Are second pregnancies more tiring?

Women generally experience more fatigue during their second pregnancy. It makes sense: You already have a child, and you need to take care of them. If you feel tired, don’t hesitate to ask your partner, friends, and family for help. They can take certain tasks off your plate.

If your child wants to play with you but you don’t have the energy, simply say “Mommy is tired,” rather than, “Mommy is tired because there’s a baby in her tummy.” This way, your child is less likely to feel a sense of rivalry.

If your child finds this period difficult, try to adapt certain routines. For example, try reading to them on the couch where you’re already lying down, rather than in their room. You can also suggest doing quieter activities together, like colouring, playing with modelling clay, or doing puzzles. If your child needs to move, put on some music and encourage them to dance while you clap along or wave your hands in the air.

The important thing is to recognize and respect your limits based on your energy level. Being less active than usual may be challenging, but it’s something you need to do to better navigate your pregnancy.

“Will I love my second child as much as my first?”

It’s common (and normal!) for parents to wonder whether they’ll love their second child as much as their first and whether they’ll be able to give them the same amount of attention. You’ll probably have less time and energy to devote to your new baby than you did the first time around, but don’t worry, you’ll have just as much love to give!

Plus, your second child will have an advantage that your first didn’t have: they’ll have an older sibling as a role model. Their interactions with each other and the attention your baby receives from your eldest will be stimulating and rewarding.

Give yourself time to adapt to the new dynamic after your baby arrives. Some parents may feel guilty for not being more connected to their new baby or, on the contrary, for enjoying the newborn phase more than they did with their older child. Remember, you’re gradually learning to parent two children. It’s important to be patient and kind to yourself.

Preparing your older child for the baby’s arrival

Many parents wait until the end of the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage is lower, to tell their firstborn that they’re going to have a little brother or sister. That said, it’s up to you to determine the best time to break the news to your eldest, depending on their temperament and age, your preference, and how your pregnancy is progressing.

Keep in mind that the arrival of a baby is an abstract concept for a young child. It becomes more concrete when they see your belly growing.

Here’s what you can do to prepare your eldest child:

• Tell them about when they were born. Show them pictures of you when you were pregnant with them and bring out their baby pictures. Reassure your child that you’ll love them just as much when the baby arrives.
• Involve your child in the preparations. This will make them feel important and useful. For example, let them choose pyjamas or a stuffed animal for the baby. They could also make a drawing to put in the baby’s room.
• If possible, bring your child to meet the newborn baby of a friend or family member. This will allow them to see what their younger sibling will look like. You can say something like, “You won’t be able to play with them right away, but you’ll be able to touch them and hold them in your arms.”
• Be available for your child and answer their questions throughout the pregnancy.
• Show them the ultrasound pictures and share a few details with them, such as: “The baby was wiggling around a lot today!”
• Towards the end of your pregnancy, tell your child what you have planned for them when you go into labour (where they will go, whom they will stay with, etc.).

For more tips, read our fact sheet Baby on the way: How to prepare your child.

Things to keep in mind

• During a second pregnancy, parents have a better idea of what to expect, which can be reassuring.
• If you’re tired, don’t tell your older child that it’s because of the baby.
• It’s important to prepare your older child for the baby’s arrival and to reassure them that you love them.

Scientific review: Lory Zephyr, psychologist Research and copywriting:The Naître et grandir team Updated: January 2026

Photo: GettyImages/NataliaDeriabina