By: Emily Carter
Updated: Feb. 12, 2021
Originally Published: Sep. 16, 2017
There’s nothing quite like the experience of your first pregnancy. You’re treated like royalty, have ample time to rest, and can always reference the latest fruit comparison to gauge your baby’s growth. You’ve likely devoured every parenting book and invested in all the trendy must-haves, from wipe warmers to car seat covers.
However, as many mothers quickly discover, this ideal scenario shifts dramatically with each subsequent pregnancy.
In a humorous video, Sarah Thompson from the well-known blog Journey of Motherhood captures the stark differences between her first pregnancy and her third. The clip shows First Pregnancy Sarah meticulously preparing her nursery, ready for a magazine feature, while Third Pregnancy Sarah lounges in sweatpants with a messy bun, clearly prioritizing practicality over perfection. She’s done with the “my baby is the size of a pomegranate” comparisons because, honestly, who has the energy for that when managing two other little ones?
“Why do they call it morning sickness? It lasts all day,” First Pregnancy Sarah laments, detailing her attempts with various remedies. “I’ve tried preggo pops, ginger root, ginger tea, and ginger ale!”
In stark contrast, Third Pregnancy Sarah humorously points out, “Oh, I feel terrible, but I have to keep the little ones alive,” gesturing towards a mini-garbage can she’s creatively fashioned into a neck accessory.
This relatable reality check continues with the notorious guidelines around food. During your first pregnancy, you might have been strict about avoiding lunch meat, soft cheese, and caffeine. But after the first baby, all bets are off. Surviving the chaos of parenting often means that caffeine becomes a much-needed ally, and judging a mom for that choice seems downright cruel.
Then there’s the matter of maternity clothing. As first-time moms, we may have managed to wear regular clothes until the second trimester. But with subsequent pregnancies, those elastic-waist jeans and flowy tops are the go-to attire from the moment that test shows positive.
And let’s not forget the infamous birth plan. Many first-time moms enter labor with detailed expectations, feeling in control and aiming for an all-natural experience. By the time you reach your third pregnancy, however, the mindset shifts significantly: “Just give me all the drugs,” Third Pregnancy Sarah declares.
In summary, whether you’re expecting your second, third, or eighth child, the person you were during your first pregnancy is forever changed. That polished figure, fully equipped with baby apps and weekly bump photos, seems like a distant memory. We can all relate—bless her heart. For more on navigating the journey of pregnancy, consider checking out this informative resource. And if you’re exploring home insemination options, you can find a comprehensive guide here.