Twin Pregnancy
A twin pregnancy is more likely to occur in women with late pregnancies because more than one egg might get released at a time as a result of hormonal disturbances. Sometimes, a twin pregnancy may be expected when assistive reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilisation have been used. Regardless of the cause for twin pregnancy, you need special care..
Dr Mariud may diagnose twin pregnancy at your first visit by ultrasound. If unexpected, the findings could give the couple a mixed feelings of joy and anxiety.
During a twin pregnancy, you need to take extra care of yourself and the babies and you should have:
- Frequent checkups: Frequent visits to the doctor are often recommended to monitor your baby's’ growth, your health and to check signs of preterm labour
- Healthy nutritious diet: You should have more amounts of folic acid, calcium, iron and proteins in your diet. You may take vitamin and iron supplements as per Dr Mariud’s recommendation.
- Appropriate weight gain: It is recommended to gain about 12 to 16 kilograms throughout your pregnancy if you have a twin pregnancy and it is important to gain appropriate weight to support your baby's’ health.
- Precautions: You should refrain from certain activities that may cause strain such as work, travel or strenuous exercise as pregnancy progresses.
It is important that you remain aware of possible complications in a twin pregnancy. High blood pressure is more likely and when it occurs in combination with proteinuria (protein in the urine), it is called preeclampsia, which is a serious complication. There is also an increased risk of preterm labour that may lead to complications such as low birth weight, breathing difficulty, underdeveloped organs, learning and developmental problems in the newborn. Most women having twins may need C-section delivery. Therefore, discuss with Dr Mariud and get prepared mentally as well as physically for C-section.
Have regular medical visits, proper diet and follow the instructions of your obstetrician to have a safe and successful delivery of twins or multiple babies.
Pregnancy is an exciting time for women, but complications may develop sometimes even in healthy women.