TTC for Your Second (or Subsequent) Baby: Realistic Preconception Tips for Busy Mums

Written By Aimee Lewis

Trying for Another Baby Is a Whole New Ballgame

Trying to conceive (TTC) your second baby (or beyond) can feel completely different to the first time. You’re busier than ever, often more tired, and your body may still be catching up after pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding.

But one thing I love seeing in clinic is how many mums come to see me when trying for their next baby. They often say, “I didn’t see a naturopath before my first, but now I realise how important preconception prep is.”

And they’re right - preparation can make all the difference.

As a mum of two, I get it. I did my own preconception care while chasing a toddler under two. I know how much you have on your plate. So let’s be real, you don’t need perfection. You just need a plan that works in your hectic world.

Here’s how to support your body, hormones, and fertility when TTC your next baby.

1. Give Yourself Time to Prepare

If possible, start preparing 3–6 months before you begin trying. This extra time gives your body a chance to rebuild nutrient stores and makes the process feel less stressful.

Book a preconception check-up with your GP and ask to test your basic nutrients: iron studies, vitamin D and vitamin B12 (at a minimum).

These nutrients play a big role in fertility, egg quality, and energy, and many mums are low in at least one after pregnancy or breastfeeding.

2. Focus on Nutrition (Without the Overwhelm)

When you’re feeding small humans all day, it’s easy to forget about feeding yourself well. But nourishing your body is key to boosting fertility and balancing hormones.

Here’s how to make it manageable:

  • Aim for “good enough.” Some days will look better than others, and that’s okay.

  • Don’t skip breakfast. A protein-rich breakfast helps regulate blood sugar and hormones. Sit and eat with your kids — it’s bonding and nutrition for you.
    Try: overnight oats, Greek yoghurt and muesli, eggs on toast, or salmon with cream cheese on sourdough.

  • Sneak in veggies. Keep frozen veggies ready to go, roast a big tray weekly, or blend spinach into smoothies.

  • Batch cook once a week. Make something simple and nourishing — like a veggie packed bolognese, tofu curry, slow cooked red meat and roast veggies, a whole roast chicken.

3. Take Your Prenatal and Fish Oil

Pregnancy and breastfeeding use up so many nutrients, so it’s important to top up before conceiving again.

Start a high-quality prenatal multivitamin at least three months before trying, and add a good-quality fish oil for omega-3s. These support egg quality, hormone balance, and reduce inflammation.

If you’re not sure which brands are best, I can help guide you during a consult — not all supplements are created equal.

4. Go Low-Tox (One Step at a Time)

This is a great time to gently reduce your exposure to everyday toxins that can affect hormones and fertility. It’s also so good for your little ones too!

Start small with easy swaps like:

  • Dishwashing liquid or tablets

  • Laundry detergent

  • Hand soap

  • Body wash

You can find great low-tox brands at supermarkets or online, like Eco Store and Koala Eco (Clients of mine can also access discounts via Vital.ly.)

Even small changes make a difference — and they benefit the whole family.

5. Move Your Body in Ways That Feel Good

Exercise is often one of the hardest things to fit in as a mum, but it’s so beneficial for fertility, mood, and energy.

Ask yourself: what feels achievable?

  • Could you do a 30-minute online workout twice a week?

  • Take the pram for a brisk walk?

  • Ask your partner, a friend, or family member to help watch the kids once a week so you can move your body?

Don’t overthink it — something is always better than nothing.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

I know this might sound like a lot, but please remember: you don’t have to do everything.

Just start with one thing this week — maybe booking your bloods, ordering your prenatal, or adding some extra veggies to your plate. Small steps make big shifts over time.

You’re already doing an amazing job, mumma.

And if you’d love some extra support to make your next conception, pregnancy, and postpartum journey as smooth as possible — I’m here to help.

I offer 1:1 fertility and preconception consultations to help you feel confident, nourished, and ready to conceive again.

You can find out more and ask me any questions by booking your free intro call here

I’d love to support you x

Aimee Lewis
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