How will labor be different this time?
It's not a sure thing, but labor is likely to be shorter this time around. While first-time moms usually spend somewhere between ten and 20 hours in labor, it generally progresses much more quickly for women who've been through it before.
And the pushing stage is often easier, too. First-timers laboring without an epidural tend to push for about an hour. The average is closer to 20 minutes if you've had a previous vaginal delivery. You're also less likely to end up with stitches than a first-time mom.
Can I get my tubes tied while I'm in the hospital?
If you've decided you don't want to have any more children after this pregnancy and you opt for tubal ligation, you may have the surgery while you're in the hospital for your delivery. Be sure to discuss this ahead of time during one of your prenatal visits. Some states require that you sign a consent form at least a month before your due date. You can still change your mind later if you decide not to have the procedure.
How will my postpartum recovery be different?
You'll probably have more intense afterbirth pains. These cramps are caused by contractions of your uterus as it shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size and location after you have your baby.
Afterpains are typically mild and short-lived for first-time moms (if they're felt at all), but they can be quite uncomfortable after a second delivery and usually get worse with each successive pregnancy. That's because first-time mothers have better uterine muscle tone so the uterus tends to contract and stay contracted, rather than intermittently relaxing and then contracting again.
Don't be surprised if it takes longer to regain your shape this time. As with your first pregnancy, postpartum weight loss alone won't do the trick. You'll need to exercise to regain good muscle tone.