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For every 250 pregnancies, one will result in twins. The chance for triplets is one in every 10,000 pregnancies. Expectant mothers of multiples have a few key experiences during their pregnancies that other expecting mothers might not have to think of.

Having twins is a blessing, but it comes with its own set of unique challenges. From care planning to coordinating double everything, parents of twins or more have to be twice as organized and creative. Here are some of the top things expectant parents of twins should know.

Maintaining a Healthy Pregnancy When Expecting Twins or More

A healthy pregnancy is the first step toward having happy and healthy twins. Although many challenges come with carrying multiples, there are also many benefits of being pregnant with more than one baby. With a healthy pregnancy, mothers with twins can reduce some of the risks associated with carrying multiples.

Some of the challenges couples with twins face are increased fatigue and nausea, so proper rest and nutrition are key. Along with normal health and wellness practices, there are a few additional challenges and considerations when expecting twins. First, take a look at your diet to make sure you’re getting enough nutrients for yourself and the growing babies.

Make sure you’re eating a variety of foods from all nutrition groups to make sure you get everything you need. If you are following a special diet, like a vegan or gluten-free diet, make sure you are taking supplements to make up for any missing nutrients.

Be Aware of Your Health

Health is one of the most important things to consider with twins. Care providers can provide information regarding the best way to reduce the risks associated with a multiple-pregnancy. These risks include preterm labor, preeclampsia, and injury to the cervix.

During your first prenatal appointment, your provider will likely do an initial screening and discuss your risk factors. Preterm labor can happen at any point during a multiple pregnancy and is the number one complication.

It can happen as early as 16 weeks in this type of pregnancy, and it can also happen after the due date for a singleton pregnancy. There are things you can do to reduce your risk of preterm labor, including staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Top 5 Things to Consider When Expecting Multiples

If you’re expecting twins, there are some things that you might need when compared to someone expecting a single child. Let’s explore the top five.

• Spotting Could Be an Issue. Keep in mind that spotting too early is often a sign of miscarriage and mothers expecting more than one child at one time are at a higher risk of a miscarriage. Spotting during your first trimester is seen more in women expecting multiples and is usually a concern but if you are experiencing spotting without the cramps, this is less concerning. Still, always consult your physician if you are experiencing this problem at any point during your pregnancy.

• More Visits to See the Doctor. Yes, an extra baby means you’ll need extra doctor’s visits. When you’re pregnant with twins, this will require a bit more monitoring. You will need more ultrasounds and additional fetal testing as you get closer to delivery. Those experiencing multi-pregnancy are often more likely to experience pregnancy difficulties than others. Regular prenatal checkups will help your physician to keep an eye on both your and your unborn child’s health.

• Your Morning Sickness May Be Harsher. During the first trimester, you might notice more symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Human chorionic gonadotropin is the cause of this and the levels of it are often higher in those expecting twins.

• Sleep. Twins aren’t easy on anyone, and they can be particularly challenging for parents. If you are breastfeeding and your babies are in the same room, try to avoid falling asleep while they are nursing. If you know you are going to be exhausted at the end of the day, try to place them in their own rooms.

• Exercise. Exercise can help reduce the risk of preterm labor. It can also help you feel better and more confident during the first year with twins.

Pay Close Attention to the Small Things

Since there is an increased chance that both babies in a twin pregnancy may be born early, you’re going to want to pay close attention. One of the main reasons for this is to look for signs of early labor.

For example, if you have pressure in your pelvic area or lower back, this could be a sign of early labor. Even diarrhea is a sign of preterm labor.

You also will want to pay attention to your diet because twin pregnancies require 1000 additional calories each day. Keeping yourself full can also limit any signs of nausea.

Hydration is just as important and you have to pay attention to your intake. The main idea is that hydration and a proper diet are needed to help ensure a safe and comfortable pregnancy.

By staying on top of these things, you will also have a better tactic for dealing with pregnancy weight gain. These small things are also ways to help prevent falling victim to more health risks.

Getting Specialized and High-Quality Care

When you need healthcare and guidance, Brown & Toland Physicians provides you with top-rate physicians and care options. Brown & Toland is a network of over 2,700 Bay Area physicians and yes, we help you explore insurance options, hospital locations, and more.

 

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If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately, call your doctor, or go to the emergency room/urgent care.