Are you also having twins? Let's be aware of these 11 facts! (Twin Pregnancy)

It's normal to feel a little scared along with the excitement when you find out you're having twins. You may not have imagined how your life will suddenly change. But don't worry, there's a lot you can learn about this journey before your babies arrive. Twins are a double blessing, but they can also come with a few more risks than conceiving a single baby. Let's talk about all of this in simple terms.

Fact 1: You are more likely to have twins in your 30s and 40s.

We've all heard that the ability to conceive decreases as we age. But in fact, the chances of having twins increase at that age. According to experts, after the age of 25, and especially in your 30s, your menstrual cycle and ovulation are not as regular. When ovulation is irregular, there is a greater chance of two eggs being released at once. That's when you can conceive twins naturally without any treatment.

Fact 2: You may need more folic acid when you have two babies.

When you are carrying twins, you may need more folic acid than usual to prevent birth defects in your babies.

This can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida . However, you should discuss this dosage with your doctor .

Fact 3: There are more doctor visits during a twin pregnancy

A twin pregnancy requires a little more monitoring than a normal pregnancy. This is not a concern for you, but for the safety of both babies. You will need to have more frequent ultrasound scans than you would with a single baby. This will help to ensure that both babies are developing properly.

Also, as you get closer to delivery, you may need to check on your baby's well-being about twice a week. This may include connecting you to a fetal heart rate monitor. All of this is done for the maximum safety of you and your baby.

Fact 4: Morning sickness and other discomforts may be felt a little more acutely

Morning sickness is caused by an increase in the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) . This hormone is very high during pregnancy. As a result, mothers of twins may experience some nausea and vomiting during the first three months. The good news is that this discomfort usually subsides by 12-14 weeks.

Not only that, mothers of twins also experience more back pain, insomnia, and heartburn than a normal pregnant mother. In addition, the mother is also at slightly higher risk of anemia and postpartum hemorrhage.

Fact 5: Spotting can be normal in the early stages.

Spotting during the first trimester of pregnancy can be a sign of miscarriage. This type of spotting is more common in twin pregnancies, as the risk of miscarriage is slightly higher.

But don't panic when you see something like this. If you just have a little bleeding without any cramps, it's not too bad. However, if you have stomach pain, blood clots, and persistent bleeding, it could be a sign of something serious. If that happens, you should inform your doctor immediately .

Fact 6: Babies don't feel the movements at first.

Many people think that having twins means they'll feel the babies move earlier, but that's not the case. Usually, you start to feel your baby move between 18 and 20 weeks. That time frame doesn't change even when you're having twins.

But it depends on whether this is your first pregnancy or not. If you've had a baby before, you know what baby movement feels like. But for the first time, it can be a little hard to tell the difference from something like gas.

Fact 7: Weight gain is more than a normal pregnancy

This is understandable. With two babies, two placentas, and extra amniotic fluid, you'll gain more weight than usual. Also, you need more calories when you're carrying twins.

On average, a mother with one baby gains about 11-12 kg (25 lbs) while a mother with twins gains about 13-16 kg (30-35 lbs). However, there are clear recommendations in the table below.

But these are just general recommendations . Talk to your doctor about how much weight you need to gain to suit your body.

Fact 8: The risk of developing gestational diabetes is higher during pregnancy.

There is a higher risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy when you are carrying twins. This condition can sometimes cause the babies to be overweight and require a C-section. However, twins are not usually very large babies. However, controlling this condition is important for your future health, as it can increase your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes later in life.

Fact 9: Increased risk of preeclampsia

The exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown, but it is known to be more common in pregnant women carrying twins. The main symptoms are high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and sometimes swelling of the hands and feet . It is a precursor to the more dangerous condition eclampsia . That's why your doctor will check your blood pressure and take a urine sample at every visit.

Fact 10: Childbirth may occur prematurely.

Most mothers with twins give birth between 36-37 weeks. A normal pregnancy lasts until 40 weeks. Sometimes it can be even earlier.

Twin babies are at higher risk of preterm delivery. Because of this, they may have respiratory problems. They are also more likely to be born with low birth weight. But our hospitals have very good facilities to manage these things.

Fact 11: There is a higher chance of having a cesarean section (C-section).

In a twin pregnancy, the chances of having to undergo a Cesarean Section (C-section) are definitely higher. The main reason for this is the position of the babies. It is more likely that one of the twins will be in the breech position . In such a case, it is best to have a cesarean section for the safety of you and your baby.

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