Is it true that the birth of your second child be better?

Emily - posted on 02/09/2009

I think the second delivery is faster - but not necessarily easier. My first I was in labor for about 36 hours - 23 of that at the hospital, but it was a fairly easy labor for most of that. I only got really in pain and wanted the epidural for the last 3 hours. My second was FAST!! I went from 3-10 cm in 1/2 hour and it was non-stop pain. There was no time for pain meds of any kind and I was less tired but more sore afterwards. I don't want another 36 hours of labor, but am hoping for more than the 1/2 hour of last time!!

Brenda - posted on 02/08/2009

I'm sure hoping it is, because I need anything easier than my first...  :)  Most people I know have had an easier time the second time around.  But its hard to predict because so many variables are involved....

Kynyetta - posted on 02/08/2009

i also have an older child and her labor was really easy, 2 hrs 3 pushes. im hoping that this one is just as easy...

Jennifer - posted on 02/08/2009

Every pregnancy and delivery is different. I have given birth 7 times, and I have never had the same experience twice. However, I do have some friends who have had many births who do tend to have similar birth experiences.

My first was the hardest--22 hours labor, pushed 1 hr. 50 min., 4th degree laceration, baby was 8# 15oz. He also had the largest head circumference of all my kiddos.

The second was MUCH easier...... 8 hours labor, pushed on 3 contractions, 2nd degree laceration, baby weighed 8# 5oz.

I thought the rest of my births would be easy, based on this situation. However, my third decided to be a little difficult. He came hand first, then had his cord prolapse, which caused me to need an emergency c-section under general anesthesia. I hemorrhaged and nearly needed a transfusion. Baby weighed 8# 5 oz

My next was my first VBAC. 13 hours labor, pushed 20 min. 8# 9oz. I had no complications, but he had respiratory problems and was in special care first 24 hours.

My fifth was a really good birth except needed pitocin. 3 hours labor, pushed 5 min. 8# 12oz.

My sixth was the only one without an epidural and was a very traumatic and painful  birth for me (because of pitocin) Not sure how long labor was, but in the end, went from 5cm to complete and delivery in 28 min. 8# even.

My seventh was another stubborn child who turned sideways. My second c-section. This one was scheduled the day before her birth, so much calmer and no complications. 7# 12oz.

So, now I wonder what is in store for #8. My dr. won't let me know if I can have a VBAC or have to have another c-section until closer to May. But, it all works out in the end. In general, a second birth is easier, but anything can happen. I think it is better to count on it being hard work, and have it turn out a lot easier, than the other way around. I hope your delivery goes well.

Ez - posted on 02/08/2009

My 2nd baby too, but my first birth was pretty good.



I've been told that since your body knows what to do now, it's generally a bit easier the second time.





Peace.