Twins
How Are Twin Babies Formed?
One in 70 births in the UK results in twins. About two-thirds of these are non-identical and the rest are identical twins. Twins develop at a very early stage just after the egg and sperm meet. Identical twins are formed when a single egg splits after fertilization. Non- identical or fraternal twins are formed from two separate eggs fertilized by two sperm at the same time. The only way to find out if your twins are fraternal or identical, unless they happen to be a boy and a girl is with a DNA test.
What Are The Side Effects Of A Twin Pregnancy?
With twins morning sickness tends to be more severe and may last beyond the first trimester. You might find that you suffer with anaemia caused by a deficiency of iron. This can be rectified with iron tablets which your doctor can prescribe for you. Some woman, pregnant with twins, tend to find that they suffer more with backache due to the extra weight they are carrying around.
When you are expecting twins the pregnancy is considered high risk. This is due to the extra demands put on both the mother and the placental system for the twins. This can cause high blood pressure for the mother and in some cases the growth of one or both the babies can slow. There is a greater risk of developing pre-eclampsia which can cause a rise in blood pressure, protein in your urine and sometimes a swelling of face, hands and feet.
You may find yourself becoming more tired than single birth mums. As a result of this many multiple birth mums start their maternity leave early.
You will often have more scans then single birth mums. This can be very reassuring, If for example your babies are in the breech position and a caesarean is looking likely, you have plenty of time to adjust to the idea. These scan appointments are ideal opportunity to glean more information about delivery options, feeding and so on.
What Will Happen When I Give Birth?
With a multiple pregnancy the chances of going into premature labour tends to increase. You can expect to go into labour between 34-38 weeks with twins and 32-36 weeks with triplets. You are more likely to have a caesarean delivery with twins than a vaginal birth although you should discuss this with your midwife. Some doctors prefer to do a caesarean if one of your twins are in the breech position or if the babies are in distress.
What Happens When I Get Home?
Plan, plan and plan! Identify the key areas where you might appreciate help. For example, ssstwins can be such a lengthy process that by the time the second baby is fed it’s time to feed the first one again! Bottle feeding enables someone to help with the winding and the night feeds.
Consider contacting your local twins club (Tamba can put in you touch with them) to meet other parents with twins and share ideas and tips. Your health visitor is another great source of information and practical help. Don’t be afraid to use her.
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