A complete guide to carrying and delivering twins β types, symptoms, risks, and delivery
One egg is fertilized by one sperm and splits into two embryos. Identical twins share the same DNA, are always the same sex, and look very similar. Account for about 1/3 of twin pregnancies.
Two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm. Fraternal twins are genetically no more similar than regular siblings, can be different sexes, and may look different. Account for about 2/3 of twin pregnancies.
The placenta arrangement is medically important. Monochorionic twins (sharing one placenta) require more intensive monitoring than dichorionic twins (each with their own placenta).
Higher hCG levels in twin pregnancies mean stronger nausea and vomiting, often starting earlier and lasting longer than in singleton pregnancies.
Your body is growing two babies β fatigue is usually more pronounced in twin pregnancies from the very beginning.
Your uterus grows faster with twins. You'll show earlier and your bump will be larger than with a singleton pregnancy at the same stage.
An unusually high hCG level on a blood test or a pregnancy test that turns positive very quickly and very darkly can sometimes suggest twins.
Twins are confirmed by ultrasound, usually at the 6β8 week scan. This is the definitive way to know.
Twin pregnancies are monitored more closely. You'll have more ultrasounds and antenatal visits than with a singleton pregnancy β typically every 2β4 weeks from the second trimester.
Twin pregnancies are usually referred to a specialist obstetrician (maternal-fetal medicine specialist) in addition to your regular OB/GYN for more expert monitoring.
Regular growth scans (every 2β4 weeks from 24 weeks) monitor both babies' growth, amniotic fluid levels, and blood flow through the umbilical cords.
Twin pregnancies are higher risk than singleton pregnancies. Awareness helps you get the right care.
More than 50% of twins are born before 37 weeks. The average twin delivery is around 36 weeks. Babies born before 34 weeks usually need neonatal intensive care.
Twins typically weigh less than singletons at birth because they share the available space and nutritional resources.
Increased iron demands in twin pregnancy make anaemia more common. Iron supplementation and regular blood tests are important.
Both are more common in twin pregnancies. Regular blood pressure monitoring and glucose testing are essential throughout.
If both twins are head-down (vertex) and other conditions are favourable, vaginal delivery may be possible. Your obstetric team will guide this decision.
C-section is commonly recommended when the first twin is not head-down, when there are placental complications, or when there are concerns about either baby's wellbeing.
For dichorionic twins, delivery is typically planned at 37β38 weeks. For monochorionic twins, earlier delivery (around 36β37 weeks) is usually recommended.
Calculate your twin pregnancy due date
Use our pregnancy calculator β it works for twin pregnancies too
Pregnancy Calculator βMedical notice: Twin pregnancy requires specialist medical oversight. Follow all advice from your obstetric team closely. This article is for general information only.