In a second or subsequent pregnancy, it’s common for the baby to take a bit longer to engage or settle into the pelvis, compared to a first-time pregnancy. If you’re noticing that your baby hasn't "dropped" yet, don't worry—it’s not unusual, and there are safe, effective techniques you can use to encourage baby’s engagement, like belly lifts and tying the belly up. In this blog, we’ll explore why babies might not engage as early in second pregnancies, when they typically do engage, and how these techniques can help.
Why Baby Might Not Engage in Second Pregnancies
In a first pregnancy, a baby often engages or "drops" into the pelvis between weeks 34-36, making them ready for birth. However, in subsequent pregnancies, the abdominal muscles are more stretched and relaxed. This extra room gives the baby more space to move freely, which can delay the baby’s engagement. In fact, many babies in second pregnancies won’t engage until labor begins or shortly before it starts.
Another reason could be the baby’s position. If the baby is in a posterior position , or slightly off-center, they may not drop into the pelvis as easily. It can be frustrating for parents eagerly waiting for signs of engagement, but fortunately, there are natural methods to help the baby find their optimal position.
Belly Lifts and Tying the Belly Up
These two techniques are commonly used to assist in engaging the baby in the pelvis by encouraging better positioning.
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Tying the Belly Up: This method involves using a long scarf or rebozo to lift the belly, offering gentle support. The purpose is to provide more balance and allow the baby to shift into the ideal position for engagement. It’s particularly helpful if the baby is posterior or not well-centered. By tying the belly up, you can help align the baby with the pelvis, giving them a better chance of engaging.
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Belly Lifts: Belly lifts are another gentle technique that can assist the baby in finding their way down. While standing, you can place your hands under your belly and lift it upward and then inward toward your spine. This movement helps to position the baby’s head over the cervix and encourages engagement. Repeating this exercise a few times a day, especially during contractions, can help encourage progress.
Steps to Tie Your Belly Up:
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Position Yourself:
Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. You can also sit or have someone assist you if you’re not comfortable standing. -
Place the Fabric Under Your Belly:
Take the center of the scarf or fabric and place it under your belly, right at the lower part where your belly meets your hips. -
Wrap the Ends Around Your Back:
Take both ends of the scarf and bring them up around your sides and then across your lower back. You should feel a bit of lift and support from the fabric. -
Lift and Adjust:
Gently lift the fabric upward as you pull the ends tighter, offering support to your belly without making it too tight. The goal is to lift the belly slightly toward your ribs, giving your baby more room to align with your pelvis. -
Tie It Securely:
Cross the fabric behind your back and bring the ends forward, tying a knot under your belly. Make sure the knot is secure but not too tight—you should still be able to breathe comfortably and move around. -
Check the Fit:
The fabric should feel supportive, like a gentle hug around your belly. It should not be too tight, and you should feel comfortable walking or standing.
Tips:
- Use During Movement: Belly tying can be particularly helpful when you're walking or standing for longer periods, as it supports the weight of the baby and helps encourage engagement.
- Do Belly Lifts with Tying: You can combine tying with belly lifts for extra help in getting the baby to drop into the pelvis.
- Adjust for Comfort: Don’t hesitate to adjust the tension as needed. Comfort is key, and the goal is to gently support your belly without causing discomfort.
When Does Baby Normally Engage?
For first pregnancies, engagement tends to happen around the 34th to 36th week of pregnancy. But in second or subsequent pregnancies, it’s normal for engagement to happen closer to the start of labor. Some babies won’t engage until active labor begins, which can still result in a smooth and successful birth.
If your baby hasn’t engaged by the time you reach full term, it’s important to stay calm and patient. Your body and baby are working together, and sometimes it just takes a bit longer for things to progress.