What Multiple Births Mean To Mom Page 1 2
New classification of twins semi-identical - Semi Identical Twins
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More precautions. Your health care provider may ask you to limit some of your activities such as work, travel and exercise as your pregnancy progresses.
Consider complications
Healthy multiples are born every day. But it's important to be aware of possible complications. For example:
Preterm labor. Most pregnancies last 38 to 42 weeks. For a twin pregnancy, 37 to 39 weeks is optimal. Preterm labor refers to contractions that begin to open the cervix before week 37. Sometimes preterm labor can be stopped with fluids, rest or medication.
Preterm birth. If preterm labor can't be stopped, your babies may be born too early the most common problem for multiples. You may be given injections of a steroid medication to speed your babies' lung development. Even then, the smallest preemies may fight to survive. Complications may include low birth weight, breathing and digestive difficulties, underdeveloped organs, learning disabilities and developmental problems.
High blood pressure. Mothers of multiples are more likely to develop high blood pressure during pregnancy. By reducing blood flow to the uterus, this condition known as preeclampsia may deprive the babies of oxygen and nutrients.
Twin-twin transfusion. With identical twins, it's possible for a blood vessel in the placenta to connect the babies' circulatory systems causing one baby to receive too much blood and the other too little. Often, babies in this situation are delivered as soon as the benefits of early birth outweigh the potential problems of prematurity.
Caesarean birth. About 50 percent of women carrying twins deliver their babies by C-section especially if the babies aren't in a head-down position. C-sections are considered safer for triplets and higher order multiples.
Bleeding after delivery. The risk of excessive bleeding after delivery increases with a larger placenta or multiple placentas. Your health care provider will be prepared to help with medications or other interventions if needed.
Caring for multiples
Healthy multiples have the same needs as other newborns. You, however, may need more rest and support than you imagined. Take time to enjoy your babies and ask friends, loved ones and others for help.
Unique Twin Births
Multiple Birth Research Center
Twins
