What childbirth is like the second time around after having 1st child a year ago

[Emma2202]

So I had my first born last February and then in July I found out I was pregnant again. So I’m getting induced on Thursday and wondered if anyone knows if labour should be quicker this time? I’ve heard because I haven’t waited the 18 months that your cervix isn’t closed properly and labour could be easier and I’m hoping so but just looking for anyone else’s experience with child birth with their second child after only waiting a year between kids?

Hey! My 2 are 11.5 months apart. First labour was a total nightmare - 40+ hours long, failed epidural, emergency forceps, baby not breathing and in SCBU, I had a PPH and needed 2 transfusions.

Second birth - waters broke at 11.30am, had baby at 6pm. No time for pain relief other than gas and air. Barely even had to push she just popped out with a contraction. Incredibly straightforward and uncomplicated!

So yes, much much quicker and easier!

Good luck for Thursday, Emma.

I have never been induced, so can't comment on that. However I can tell you that my second labour was faster than my first (17 months between them).

1st labour - 9hrs
2nd labour - just under 2.5 hrs.

I don't know if that helps any, there really isn't a definitive answer.

There's 16 months between my first two children. My second labour was much quicker. I can't comment on induction because all my labours were spontaneous.

My first labour was 21 hours from first twinge to baby, and my second labour was 12 hours from start to finish.

The second one was much more manageable and I only needed G&A, whereas I had an epidural with DC1. I had a forceps delivery with DC1, but pushed out DC2 without a bother in 20 minutes.

2nd one super quick. Didn't even think j was in labour but thought I should go In to get group step B antibiotics. Got there, went straight to room and DD came before the MW could get her stuff ready!!

Second labour tends to be quicker, even with more than a year between. Mine was about the same but was pretty quick in the first place (about 3 hours)