How to know when the second baby is about to be born

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Approaching labor usually refers to the onset of labor. In general, for a second pregnancy, labor can be determined by observing a series of physical signs, including stronger contractions, reduced fetal movement, fetal head descent, cervical dilation, and a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen. If signs of labor occur, such as regular contractions, spotting (bloody show), or rupture of membranes (water breaking), immediate medical attention should be sought to ensure a smooth labor process.

Approaching delivery usually refers to the onset of labor. Generally, for the second birth, the onset of labor can be determined by observing a series of physical signs, including stronger contractions, decreased fetal movement, fetal head descent, cervical dilation, and a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen.

1. Stronger Contractions: As labor approaches, the pregnant woman will feel contractions gradually intensifying. The contractions become more regular, with shorter intervals between them. Initially, contractions may cause mild discomfort, which progressively becomes stronger.

2. Decreased Fetal Movement: Before labor begins, fetal activity may decrease. This is mainly because the fetus becomes calmer and its position becomes relatively fixed in preparation for birth.

3. Fetal Head Descent: When the fetal head descends into the pelvis, the pregnant woman may feel increased pelvic pressure, frequent urination, and a heightened sensation of needing to defecate. This indicates the fetus has engaged into the pelvis and is an important sign of impending labor.

4. Cervical Dilation: Prior to labor, the cervix gradually dilates in preparation for the baby's delivery. Cervical dilation may cause mucus-like vaginal discharge, sometimes mixed with blood streaks.

5. Feeling of Abdominal Heaviness: As the fetus descends into the pelvis, the pregnant woman may feel heaviness in the abdomen. This discomfort occurs because the fetus exerts pressure on the bladder and rectum. Meanwhile, the fundus of the uterus lowers, making the upper abdomen feel more comfortable.

If signs of labor occur, such as regular contractions, bloody show, or rupture of membranes, immediate medical attention is necessary to ensure a smooth labor process. Before labor, pregnant women should rest adequately and avoid excessive anxiety, which contributes to a smoother delivery.

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Is it possible to have a second child at the age of 42?

Whether a 42-year-old woman can have a second child mainly depends on her physical condition. Those with regular menstruation, good health, and no underlying diseases can generally have a second child, but should pay attention to prenatal checkups. If menstruation is irregular or the woman suffers from severe diseases, fertility may be compromised, and attempting a second pregnancy under such circumstances may increase the risks of miscarriage and premature birth.

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Is a 1.7 mm thick scar on the uterus after a second pregnancy considered normal?

Under normal circumstances, a scarred uterus refers to a uterus with a scar or cicatrix. A uterine scar thickness of 1.7 mm in a woman expecting her second child is not normal and indicates a relatively thin scar. For pregnant women with a uterine scar thickness of 1.7 mm, it is important to closely monitor symptoms such as abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, and undergo regular prenatal examinations, including ultrasound scans, as recommended by a physician to monitor the uterine scar.