A twin or triplet pregnancy is many times referred to as a "multiple gestation," this simply means more than one baby is born to a mother. Twins pregnancies occur more often than you might expect. In fact, approximately 2% of all pregnancies produce twins.
As with any pregnancy, getting the proper prenatal care is the key to promoting the health of both you and your babies. Be sure to keep all of your scheduled visits. Your doctor/midwife will want to frequently check on the growth and development of your babies. Also remember to check with them before taking any medicine, even an over-the-counter (OTC) or "home remedy".
The amount of weight you will need to gain depends on your weight and height before pregnancy. In general, women who begin pregnancy underweight should gain more, and women who begin pregnancy overweight may safely gain somewhat less.
Here are some general weight guidelines, but check with your doctor/midwife for guidance and recommendations for your individual weight gain.
Twins
- Overall range for weight gain is 34 to 45 pounds
- Gain about 1 ½ pounds each week during the last 6 months of pregnancy
- Avoid weight loss or low weight gain
- Underweight mothers may gain closer to 45 pounds
- Overweight mothers may gain closer to 35 pounds
Triplets
- There is no official weight gain guideline
- Expect to gain approximately 50 to 55 pounds
- Gain about 2 pounds each week during the last 6 months of pregnancy
- Avoid weight loss or low weight gain
Relief of Discomforts
Nausea and vomiting
Prevention:
- Eat several small meals
- Eat protein rich foods several times a day
- Drink fluids between meals
- Avoid greasy, acid, or strong flavored foods
- Snack on dry, starchy foods such as cereals and crackers
Remedies:
- Replace fluids with chicken broth, ginger ale, or sports beverages
- Try ice pops, gelatin, or carbonated drinks and ginger snaps
- Check with your doctor/midwife about Vitamin B6
Heartburn
Prevention:
- Eat several small meals
- Avoid stomach irritants such as coffee and cigarettes
- Avoid gas-producing foods such as garlic, peppers, onions, and cabbage
- Avoid greasy or spicy foods
Remedies:
- Sip carbonated water
- Eat a spoonful of yogurt, heavy cream or milk
- Check with your doctor/midwife about which antacids would be safe for you
Constipation
Prevention:
- Drink lots of fluids
- Eat high fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains
Remedies:
- Drink hot liquids in the morning and before meals
- If constipation persists, call your provider
Reduction of Stresses and Strains
To reduce your physical stress and strain, our doctors and nurses may ask you to consider the following:
