
This results in twins or more babies. Fraternal twins (the most common type) are formed when two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperms. Each twin has a separate placenta and sac. They can be either a boy or a girl, or a girl and a boy. They are genetically no different from other siblings. Identical twins are formed from a single fertilized egg cell that divides to form two fetuses. These twins may share a placenta, but usually each baby has a separate sac. Genetically, they are identical. They will be the same sex and look exactly the same. Triplets or more can be monozygotic, triplets, quadruplets or a combination of these, but they are much rarer.
Diagnosis
A twin pregnancy can be diagnosed before birth. The first signs are a larger than normal uterus and hearing more than one heartbeat. Some blood tests can also support the presence of twins or more babies. A suspected twin pregnancy is usually confirmed by an ultrasound scan. This test uses sound waves to create an image of your uterus and your baby or babies.
What twin pregnancy means for the mother
The best way to take care of your babies is to take care of yourself first. Here are the things you can expect;
More complaints. The severity of normal pregnancy complaints such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, insomnia and fatigue may increase in multiple pregnancies. Abdominal pain, shortness of breath and pressure in the pelvis are also quite common.
They require more frequent check-ups. You will need to see your doctor more often to monitor the growth and development of your babies and for your health. You will need to be careful about preterm labor. You will need to be checked every two weeks, especially in the second trimester (three months) and once a week in the third trimester.
You should take more certain foods. You need to take more folic acid, calcium, iron, iron, protein and other essential nutrients. If you already eat a healthy diet, continue to do so and make sure you get your daily vitamins. Your doctor may recommend iron supplements.
You will gain more weight. It is important that you gain enough weight for your baby to be healthy and for you to be able to lose it comfortably after the birth. The recommended weight gain for twin pregnancies is usually 15-20 kilograms. This adds up to 2700 calories per day. How much weight you should gain should be decided together with your doctor.
You need to take more precautions. Your doctor may impose some restrictions on your activities during your pregnancy, such as work, travel and exercise. After all, healthy twins are born every day. But it is important to be aware of possible problems.
For example
Early contractions : Most normal pregnancies last between 38 and 42 weeks. In twin pregnancies, this is between 37 and 39 weeks. In order to be called preterm labor, the cervix must start to open with contractions before 37 weeks. Sometimes premature contractions can be stopped by rest and medication.
Preterm labor : If premature contractions cannot be stopped, your babies can be born very early. This is very common in multiple pregnancies. Cortisone treatment can be given to speed up the development of your babies’ lungs. Other problems that may occur include low birth weight, breathing and digestive difficulties, underdevelopment of organs, learning disabilities and developmental problems.
High blood pressure : It is very common for mothers with multiple pregnancies to develop high blood pressure during pregnancy. This condition is called pre-eclampsia and can lead to a decrease in oxygen and nutrients to the babies as a result of reduced blood flow to the uterus.
Blood flow between babies: In identical twins, it is possible that a blood vessel in the placenta connects the blood circulation between the babies. This can result in too much blood going to one baby and too little to the other. Babies in this situation should be delivered as soon as they are able.
Caesarean section : About half of twin pregnancies are delivered by caesarean section. This delivery is even more preferred, especially if the babies are not born head first. It is also considered safer in triplets or more multiple pregnancies.
Postpartum hemorrhage : Postpartum bleeding is more common with a larger or more numerous placenta. Your doctor will give you medicines and interventions to help you avoid the risks of bleeding.
Healthy twins need the same things as other newborn babies. But you will need more rest and support than you might expect. Try to spend quality time with your babies and ask for help from friends and loved ones.