The predominant factors that contribute to having a multiple birth pregnancy are heredity, race, number of previous pregnancies, delayed child bearing, and infertility treatments. In the past two decades, both the significant increase in older mothers and infertility treatments has caused the biggest increase in multiple births.

The types of multiples

There are two types of twins monozygotic and dizygotic. These are probably better known as identical and non-identical or fraternal twins.

Identical twins develop from one fertilized egg that has split in two halves and grown into two identical babies. Non-identical twins come from two separate eggs that are fertilized by individual sperm. They grow separately and are no more alike than other siblings born to the same parents. Super-twins is a common term for triplets or higher order multiple births. These babies can be identical, non-identical, or a combination of both.

Staying healthy during a multiple birth pregnancy

Eating properly, getting enough rest, and making regular trips to the doctor are critical measures for any expectant mother to stay healthy. A woman with a multiple pregnancy might be scheduled for more frequent appointments with her obstetrician/gynecologist (OB-GYN) than women who are pregnant with a single fetus.

Your weight and comfort

Mothers who are carrying multiples are expected to gain more weight during the course of the pregnancy than mothers carrying a single fetus. Exactly how much weight you should gain depends on your pre-pregnancy weight and the number of fetuses. This should be discussed with your doctor so you know what is healthy for you. In general, though, you should consume about 300 additional calories a day for each fetus.

Although it might be tough to eat a lot when your abdomen is full of babies, it can help to eat smaller, more frequent meals. Expecting multiples probably means that youre experiencing the typical discomforts of pregnancy more intensely. Nurture yourself and help ease the stress of pregnancy. Relax as much as you can by reading, listening to music or walking can make you feel better.

Preparing for childbirth

Being ready for a multiple birth may seem overwhelming, and concerns about pre-term labour can be additional burdens for you to bear. The best reassurance is knowing that you have a network of support around you: capable doctors, a caring hospital staff, and hopefully a supportive partner, family members, and/or friends.

Taking your babies home

The first days, weeks, and months are often the most difficult for parents of multiples, as everyone learns to get used to the frequent feedings, lack of sleep, and little personal time involved in parenting multiples. Enlist whatever help you can get from neighbors, family members, and friends for household chores and daily tasks. Having extra hands around can not only make feedings easier and help you rest and recover from delivery, it can also give you the precious time you need to get to know your babies.