Possible complications when having another baby

What does a possible pregnancy “complication” mean? It means that the mother, baby or both are at higher risk of a condition, such as pre-eclampsia, that might endanger the health and safety. Although alarming, what must be remembered is that doctors are aware of potential conditions and their symptoms, tests can be performed and if necessary, and treatment provided. If you experience ill-health or unusual symptoms during pregnancy, it is important to have these evaluated by a medical professional.

Some pregnancy complications that may also arise in the second pregnancy and place both mother and baby at risk are:

• pre-eclampsia where pressure in the mother's blood is raised with excess protein present in the urine which affects her liver, kidney and brain functions
• ectopic pregnancy where the embryo becomes embedded outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes causing severe abdominal pain and bleeding
• miscarriage or foetal loss before week twenty of gestation
• extreme prematurity where the baby is born before week twenty-four
• hydatidiform mole or molar pregnancy where the foetus breaks down into a mass of tissue that has to be surgically removed
• other genetic conditions, such as diabetes or epilepsy, or infectious conditions

Part of dealing with any pregnancy complication is identifying it and learning about it from your doctor, specialist, and midwife. Pamphlets are also readily available so that you can understand what your options are and where to receive guidance. Feeling overly worried about complications is also not advised. Going for antenatal appointments and health check-ups will put your mind at rest and help you prepare for your upcoming birth.

Preventing pregnancy complications for the second birth

Managing your health through exercise, rest and diet, and receiving the medical care that you need during pregnancy is paramount to reducing the risk of any pregnancy complications when carrying your second child.

Factors that increase risk of complication include malnutrition, toxic chemicals, alcohol, smoking, hormonal imbalances, fibroids, tumours, uterine infection, endometriosis and also sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs and STIs). Following recommended pregnancy lifestyle choices and health advice, and getting checked for STDs and STIs to receive necessary treatment, is vital for both care of the mother and foetus.

Having Another baby:

• Having Another baby
• Choice motivations for having another baby
• Planning and preparing for a second pregnancy
• Health considerations when having another baby
• Telling your partner and first child that your are expecting again

• What to expect when having another baby
• Possible complications when having another baby
• Differences in midwife care
• Attending to yourself and the first child when having another baby