Making Multiples

09/13/2024

For most women, a positive pregnancy test is a thrilling start to a life-changing journey. In the weeks leading up to your first ultrasound, you fantasize what this orange-seed-sized miracle will bring along with it. Joy, no doubt. A dash of fear. And, sometimes, they bring along the most surprising thing of all: Another baby.

Multiple Pregnancies

With a rise in fertility treatments and more women becoming pregnant at a later age, it's become more common to see a birth of multiples. The arrival of twins, triplets, and high-order multiples such as quadruplets and sextuplets can be exciting, but it's important to educate oneself on the increased risks that come with carrying multiples.

How are multiples conceived?

A multiple pregnancy typically occurs as a result of one of the following:

A single fertilized egg splits before attaching to the uterine lining, resulting in identical multiples who look like one another and are the same sex.
More than one egg is fertilized by different sperm cells at the same time, resulting in the varying of their genetics.

Is the birth of multiples common?

The commonality of a multiple birth and the likelihood that it will happen to you are based on a few factors:

A substantial amount of women who birth multiples are either a multiple themself or have a history of multiples in their heritage. This trait is usually passed down through the maternal line.

If you're older, it's possible that your body is releasing multiple eggs at once, increasing the possibility of multiple conception.

Electing to undergo fertility treatment often involves transferring more than one fertilized egg into the uterus to up the chances of getting pregnant.

How can I prepare for the birth of multiples?

Moms of multiples are at a higher risk of birthing prematurely, developing high blood pressure or diabetes, experiencing placenta disruption, and improper growth of the fetus.

While it's up to your healthcare provider to diagnose and guide you through these and other symptoms, there are steps you can take to ensure you're operating at your healthiest:

Rest

A mom carrying more than one baby will likely experience more discomfort than a mom carrying one baby. It's imperative that you listen to your babies and get all the necessary rest you require.

Diet

If you're supporting multiple babies, you'll have more dietary requirements to meet. Monitor your protein, calorie, and fluid intake. Providers often recommend that you eat an extra 300 calories per baby.

Exercise

Low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light aerobics are more beneficial to your health than strenuous activity and can promote heart health.

Educate

Ask as many questions as you have concerns. Read birthing books, attend classes, and connect with other women who have and are currently nurturing multiples. Be sure to prepare and coordinate with your birth team as well.

Birth Circle is here to provide you with everything needed to experience a healthy and beautiful pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Visit our website to begin building a birth team that will address all of your needs, even when you're moving into uncharted territory.