Multiple pregnancies result when a sperm fertilizes two or more eggs. Moreover, a multiple pregnancy can transpire when a fertilized ovum ruptures into two halves. Women with multiple pregnancies can give birth to two, three, or more kids. Multiple pregnancies usually are in women who have a family history of twins.
How can you tell that you have a multiple pregnancy?
Your doctor is able to confirm your state by asking you to do a prenatal test or by using an ultrasound scan.
The prenatal test identifies important pregnancy metrics like the number of embryos implanted onto your uterus, amount of amniotic fluid in your womb, as well as the number and position of placentas serving the embryos.
How can you take care of your multiple pregnancy?
1. Visit your doctor regularly
Women with multiple pregnancies need extra prenatal care since they have an increased likelihood of acquiring gestational diabetes, delivering kids with low birth weight, and giving birth before their estimated day of delivery. The regular prenatal visits would help you get appropriate healthcare support to maintain your multiple pregnancies.
2. Eat enough food
Women with multiple pregnancies need more proteins, calories, vitamins, and iron than those expecting one kid. For that reason, you might want to increase your food intake as a way to achieve the recommended nutrient intake.
Experts propose that you consume small meals frequently instead of consuming large portions in one sitting. Why? Eating a small serving helps you avoid nausea, heartburn, and indigestion.
3. Get more rest
Your doctor may recommend a bed rest, as there are higher chances of having pregnancy-related high blood pressure, or a higher risk of miscarriage. Depending on your situation, the doctor may prescribe a brief bed rest at home or monitored bed rest in a healthcare facility.
What to expect when giving birth to your twins or multiples
A majority of expectant mothers with multiple pregnancies deliver between weeks 34 and 37. Doctors say that the preterm birth protects you and your babies from detrimental complications that could result during or after the 39th week.
Your doctor may prescribe a planned caesarean section if you are delivering three or more kids. Caesarean section reduces infant mortality and other complications related to vaginal birth. You can deliver twins vaginally.
How to care for your babies after delivery
After birth, your doctor will place the kids at a neonatal intensive care or special care unit for high-level care. You will be allowed to bring your babies home after their health stabilizes. At home, you may consider hiring trained confinement nannies to teach you and your family on how to take care of the babies. Prior to that, you may consider taking antenatal classes by experienced trainers so as to ensure you are well prepared in the parenting journey.
Expecting twins can be overwhelming, more so if you are carrying a multiple pregnancy for the first time. This post has shed light on what you would expect from conception to delivery. Always check with your OBGYN doctor in cases of worries or if you have queries pertaining to your pregnancy.