FAQ
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns of multiple mums.
Q.1 How will I cope ?
You will but do not think you should be able to cope alone. Where possible surround yourself with friends and family willing to lend a hand. The first few months are going to be difficult and this is not a reflection on your parenting skills! Accept all offers of help.
Q.2 Do twins run in the family ?
Yes. If you are a twin or twins run in your family you are slightly more likely to conceive twins yourself. Women who are fraternal twins have one in 60 chance of conceiving twins themselves. Identical Twins are purely spontaneous and can happen to anyone.
Q.3 Are they identical ?
Identical twins are produced when an egg and a sperm join together but then divide into two once they have joined. These twins may share a single placenta and very occasionally may also share the same amniotic sac.
Q.4 How much weight will I gain ?
Every pregnancy is different and your pre pregnancy weight has to be taken into account however the guideline recommends a weight gain of 35 to 45 pounds or 15-20 kilos in total.
Q.5 Will I have to have a C Section ?
Not necessarily. There are many factors to consider when delivery a multiple birth and your consultant will advise accordingly whilst taking your wishes into consideration. Positioning of your twins will play a big part in the decision, the type of twins and their estimated birth weights plus the possible need for early delivery.
Q.6 What are the chances or premature labour ?
Twins do like to arrive early and the risk of premature labour with a multiple pregnancy is high. Your aim is to get your babies as close to term as possible. Term for a twin pregnancy is normally defined as 37 weeks opposed to a 40 week singleton pregnancy.
Q.7 How will we manage financially ?
Financial worries can be enormously stressful so don’t add to the burden by buying baby items or equipment that are not necessary and remember not everything needs to be new. Buy in bulk in advance with things like nappies and baby wipes.
Q.8 What Equipment will I need ?
You will not need two of everything but you will need two of many things and you won’t need everything all at once. At first you will need a good twin buggy, two car seats and you will need to decide on sleeping arrangements. Stock up on nappies, bottles and baby formula if you are taking the bottle feeding route.
Q.9 How does a twin pregnancy differ from a singleton pregnancy ?
The demands made on your body are substantially increased and you may experience more severe pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness or exhaustion. Later on in the pregnancy you have more weight to carry and may have to take more rest to prevent the onset of preterm labour. Your antenatal care will differ. You and your babies will be monitored more closely and you will receive numerous ultrasound scans.
Q.10 How will my older children deal with the new arrivals ?
Hopefully they will be delighted but it’s easier for older children to feel pushed a side when twins arrive as parents have even less time to spare than they would do with the arrival of a one newborn baby. Get them involved with helping with their new siblings so they feel included. If possible ask other family members to assist with the twins so you can give some undivided attention to your existing children.
Q.11 Do I need to eat for three ?
No, but you do need to make sure you give your twins the best start possible by maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring you all receive the right nutrients. You need to gain the extra weight to help with the growth of your babies. It may be difficult at first when battling with the morning sickness but try to eat little and often to compensate for your lack of appetite.
Disclaimer: The information on this website does not constitute medical advice, it is for your reference only from my personal experience of delivering twins twice. Always seek professional and current advice from a registered medical practitioner.
