All About Twin Pregnancy
Written by: Perry Nichols
Types of Twins
The most common type of twins are fraternal, which occurs when two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm. Each baby has their own amniotic sac and placenta and may either be girls, both boys, or one of each sex. Fraternal twins are actually no more genetically alike than any other siblings.
With identical twins, one single fertilized egg evolves or splits into two separate fetuses. Most times, identical twins will have their own amniotic sac but will either share one placenta or have their own. Genetically, these types of twins, as the name implies, are identical and will always be of the same sex.
How a Twin Pregnancy is Diagnosed
In most all cases, a twin pregnancy is detected long before delivery with the first signs being either an extra heartbeat or a larger than normal uterus. There are also blood tests designed to detect twin or multiple pregnancies. An ultrasound test using sound waves to create an image from within the uterus is done to confirm the presence of more than one fetus. However, there have also been instances where it is believed to be a twin pregnancy throughout, but at delivery there is surprisingly only one baby.
The Special Concerns of a Twin Pregnancy
While expecting two babies, moms-to-be of twins have a few special concerns to think about, such as more "side effects" of pregnancy including increased morning sickness, heartburn, insomnia, fatigue, abdominal and back pain. Women pregnant with twins will also need more neonatal care such as frequent check-ups from their doctors with more ultrasound tests to monitor the babies' growth. They will also require more vitamins such as folic acid, calcium, and iron.
A twin pregnancy will result in more weight gain, with the recommended amount usually being between 35 and 45 pounds. Exercise, travel, work, and physical activities are also usually restricted earlier during the pregnancy in women who are expecting twins.
The Possible Complications of a Twin Pregnancy
With any type of twin pregnancy, the odds of having complications are always a bit higher, although today, healthy sets of multiples are born each and every day. Some of those possible complications may include:
High blood pressure
A multiple pregnancy is more likely to cause high blood pressure. As a result, a condition known as preeclampsia occurs due to reduced blood flow to the uterus, possibly depriving fetuses of oxygen and much needed nutrients.
Preterm labor
The average pregnancy is anywhere from 38 to 42 weeks, with 37 to 39 weeks being the ideal for a twin pregnancy. With preterm labor, contractions begin before the 37th week, allowing the cervix to open prematurely. In some cases, this early labor may be safely stopped using medication, fluids, or bed rest.
Preterm birth
If preterm labor isn't able to be stopped, preterm birth may occur resulting in problems such as low birth weight, respiratory difficulties, underdeveloped organs, or physical and developmental disabilities.
Caesarean birth
Approximately half of all women pregnant with twins will require a caesarean (C-section) delivery, particularly if one or both of the babies aren't in the correct position.
Excessive bleeding
A twin pregnancy may result in excessive bleeding right after birth due to the extra or larger placenta and is usually controlled with medication.
