Becoming a mum is usually exciting for many women in Kenya as they learn to care for a newborn and eventually a toddler. At the toddler stage, many start thinking about getting pregnant again with their second born. However, not all wait till their baby is much older with others getting pregnant as early as six months after delivery. Medical professionals encourage women to wait at least eighteen months before trying to conceive another baby to increase the chances of having a healthy child.
So, how does a mum know she is ready to start trying for a second-born? Here are some tips to help you make the decision to try or wait a little longer.
- Your firstborn should be at least eighteen months old or older to minimize pregnancy complications such as low-birth-weight or having a premature baby. The gap ensures that a mother’s body is ready to carry another baby for the entire pregnancy period.
- You should be ready for another pregnancy physically as the body has to accommodate a growing baby. Also, pregnancy usually takes a toll on a woman as their bodies have to produce enough red blood cells for the baby while ensuring that they do not become anaemic as well.
- You must be emotionally stable especially if you experienced periods of postpartum depression after the first pregnancy. When a mum is not ready mentally to go through the journey of pregnancy again, it is advisable to give time until they are ready and have the condition treated before trying again.
