Although your period hasn’t started yet, you are beginning to feel crampy. Your pulse rate feels unusual, you have frequent urination and sore breasts, and you just have a general uneasy feeling. Might that be so? A home pregnancy test reveals a positive result. You have a baby! Woo-Hoo!! Congratulations!!
However, this pregnancy feels unique. Though you’re unsure of the reason, you have a faint sense that you might be carrying twins. Although you don’t yet have any concrete evidence that you are pregnant with twins, and you can’t say that the symptoms you are currently exhibiting are any different from those of a singleton pregnancy, are there any indications of twin pregnancy that you should be aware of? So fret not, today we will discuss one of the most common questions that many expectant mothers ask: “How can I tell if I am pregnant with twins?”
Related: Common Questions about Breastfeeding Twins
How Can I Tell If I Am Pregnant With Twins?
There are many signs of twin pregnancy, some of which might be similar to those for a single kid and others might be different. However, how would you know for sure if you were carrying twins?
You Have Characteristics That Increase Your Chances Of Having Twins
If there are any family gatherings, does your aunt warn you to “be careful” because “twins run in the family”? This indicates that the women in your family have a tendency to hyperovulate, or release many eggs during ovulation. The likelihood of getting fraternal twins is higher if you already have them in your family than it is for the average person.
However, fraternal twins, not identical twins, are related to having a family history of twins. Having identical twins is random and unrelated to your family’s genetic background. The likelihood of having identical twins is 1 in 250, the same as it is for every other woman on the globe.
You may also be more likely to become pregnant with twins if you are in your mid-to-late 30s or older. You are more likely to release numerous eggs during one ovulation cycle as fertility falls with age. Due to this, there are more risks involved with having twins.
Now, don’t freak out! Although having these traits increases your chances of producing twins, it doesn’t guarantee that you will have fraternal twins. Simply said, it means that the chances are greater than they are for most people.
You Have Elevated hCG Or AFP Levels
Elevated hCG levels are one of the earliest indications that you may be expecting twins. Your body releases the pregnancy hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) after fertilization. Another protein your body produces during pregnancy, AFP, aids in the healthy development of the placenta. The protein, which can be seen in urine as early as six days after fertilization, causes a pregnancy test to show a positive result. Higher hCG levels are associated with an increased risk of multiple pregnancies. Only an AFP test can detect whether a woman is carrying twins because her AFP levels will likewise be greater in that case.
You Notice Fetal Movement Early, And Often
Feeling baby movement early and regularly during your pregnancy is another early indication that you might be pregnant with twins. Don’t panic if you aren’t feeling the infant move; fetal activity varies depending on the pregnancy. If the pregnancy is a singleton, the first movement may occur as early as 17 to 19 weeks or as late as 24 weeks. The first twin movement is most likely to occur between 12 and 24 weeks into the pregnancy. Of course, by that point, you’ve probably already used ultrasound to determine if the symptoms you’re experiencing are actually twins.
You Are Planning Ahead
Your belly may be developing considerably faster than your due date, which is one indication that you might be carrying two buns in the oven. Ask your doctor or midwife if it’s safe for them to measure your belly if you haven’t had the opportunity. Even though they won’t use an ultrasound until later in the pregnancy to confirm that there are two babies in there, your provider may be able to approximate the size of the infants by measuring your tummy.
You Have Increased Morning Sickness
It may be an early symptom of multiple pregnancies if you’ve had severe nausea (also known as morning sickness) for longer than 14 weeks. High hCG levels can cause morning sickness, and in many cases, your hCG levels are rising as you approach the 14-week mark. Although it can be an indication of twins or another pregnancy issue, morning sickness that persists after the 14th week of pregnancy should be taken seriously. With the exception of severe morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum, single pregnancies rarely encounter the pregnancy symptom of persistent morning sickness in the second trimester.
You Have Severe Fatigue
Having trouble maintaining eye contact? If you have extreme exhaustion in the first trimester of your pregnancy, you may be carrying twins. Although some pregnant women claim to feel drowsy and exhausted the entire time, it is more common for women carrying multiple babies to experience significant weariness right on. This is because your body requires more sleep to replenish the additional energy it is using to produce two babies. You can combat this fatigue by taking quick naps during the day and making sure to go to bed early every night.
You Are Debuting Early
It’s probable that you are carrying twins if you are already showing signs of pregnancy. Some women only ovulate slightly or never at all during the first trimester. Around 10 weeks into their pregnancy, many twin moms start switching to maternity apparel because their regular trousers and slacks are just too uncomfortable. During the first trimester of a twin pregnancy, it’s typical to require a bigger bra and size up in your pre-pregnancy clothing.
Not every woman who is pregnant with twins, though, gains weight quickly. You may find it difficult to swallow meals if you have bad heartburn or intense nausea, which could result in weight loss. If this is the case, speak with your doctor as you might be able to acquire some pregnancy-safe medicine to treat those symptoms.
You Have A Sneaking Suspicion
Sometimes you don’t even have symptoms of twin pregnancy—just a hazy suspicion. Even though there are no early indicators of twin pregnancy, it’s really fairly common to suspect that you might be pregnant with twins based on your intuition. If your home pregnancy test was positive, call your doctor right away to schedule a blood test and an ultrasound to confirm (or rule out) your suspicions.
How Can I Confirm a Twin Pregnancy?
The only way to confirm a twin pregnancy is through a medical test, such as an ultrasound or through your reproductive endocrinologist.
Pelvic Exam and Fetal Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan, usually done in the first trimester of pregnancy, is the only way to determine if you are actually carrying twins. Your doctor or midwife will do a pelvic exam and an ultrasound to confirm the number of babies when you visit them for an early prenatal checkup (often done 7 to 8 weeks from the first day of your last menstruation). You are formally diagnosed as having twins if both a pelvic exam and an ultrasound reveal two pregnancies! In order for you to receive the news simultaneously, we advise that you bring your spouse with you and have them view the ultrasound images with you.
Through Your Reproductive Endocrinologist
You can learn that you are expecting twins early if you are undergoing fertility treatments with a reproductive endocrinologist. Your doctor will prescribe a blood test to check the levels of hCG after your therapy is finished. A quantitative hCG (Q-hCG) test, sometimes referred to as a beta test, is more sensitive than an early pregnancy test kit and can detect lower quantities of hCG in your body.
If the results are positive, a follow-up blood test will be planned for you a few days later to make sure the levels are increasing as expected. You’ll be scheduled for a vaginal ultrasound in a week or two if the numbers are increasing, and at that time, your doctor will be able to see if you’re having twins.
There are various signs that you might be carrying twins, ranging from greater morning sickness or exhaustion that persists after 14 weeks of pregnancy to measuring ahead sooner than expected. Think about these things if you’re planning a pregnancy soon so you can get ready to carry two infants at once!
Do You Know? Twins may have a stronger bond than other siblings due to their shared experience in the womb and early life. Some studies suggest that twins may even have a telepathic connection.
How Can I Tell If My Twins Are Identical?
DNA Test
A DNA test is the most reliable approach to determine whether twins are identical. Only after your children are born can this be done.
Placenta
The placenta may also contain information. Your first ultrasound should be able to reliably identify the type of placenta your twins have if it is performed before 14 weeks.
If not, the placenta can be checked once your children are delivered.
Related: From Flat to Fabulous: When Your Bump Will Start to Show During Pregnancy
What Are The Complications With Pregnancy With Twins?
There is a greater chance of difficulties with multiple births. While no pregnancy is ever completely trouble-free, having twins increases the likelihood of issues. Here are some issues that are frequently encountered:
Premature Births
It is common knowledge that 3 out of 5 mothers who are carrying twins give birth prematurely. This is when a newborn is born even if some of its organs are still developing. Great care must be taken when handling, feeding, and protecting the infants from infections.
Anemia
Anemia is a frequent complication of pregnancy, but it can be particularly severe in twin pregnancies.
Vanishing Twin Syndrome
Even when many embryos are found in the first trimester, one of them may frequently dissolve or vanish. This condition is known as “vanishing twin syndrome.” When this occurs, you can bleed and run the risk of miscarriage in the later trimesters.
Related: Vanishing Twin Syndrome
Gestational High Blood Pressure and Diabetes
Expectant moms may experience high blood pressure during pregnancy and diabetes as a result of having twins.
Tips To Keep In Mind If You Are Having Twins:
- Knowing that you might be experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, it’s always best to be aware of potential problems. Read the literature, conduct your own research, and consult your doctor about any worries you may have. Although that sounds terrifying, nothing bad will happen!
- Eat only the healthiest foods. Include a lot of nutritious whole foods in your diet. The ideal situation would be to avoid junk food and fast food at all costs, but strive to only eat it once a month!
- Never be embarrassed to seek help. Pregnant women often try to take on tasks they are unable to because they feel like a burden to everyone around them. Never put yourself through unnecessary stress or hesitate to ask for assistance—you deserve it after all.
- The best option is to exercise gently. Yoga can not only help with some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, but it can also help you have a more easy birth. Stay active in little ways, if you can.
- Instead of having a midwife or other helper nearby, consult a professional who is skilled in antenatal care. An expert is trained to identify any issues you may be having early on so that remediation may happen as soon as possible.
Related: Why I Am Experiencing Belly Button Pain Or Itching Or Soreness?
Twin Pregnancy Transformation Week by Week
You can experience the incredible journey of twin pregnancy transformation week by week through this captivating video. Witness the miraculous growth of two little lives and the changes they bring to a mother’s body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re asking yourself, “How can I tell if I am pregnant with twins?” it’s important to pay attention to the signs and symptoms your body may be showing. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance and support during this exciting, but potentially challenging time. Remember, with proper medical care, you can manage any potential risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your two little ones. So, embrace this unique and extraordinary journey, and enjoy every moment of it!
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can you tell if you’re Pregnant with Twins?
You may suspect a twin pregnancy as early as six weeks into your pregnancy, but an ultrasound is the only way to confirm it.
Is Twin Pregnancy Riskier than a Single Pregnancy?
Twin pregnancy does come with increased risks such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. However, with proper medical care, the risks can be managed.
Do Twins Develop at the Same Rate?
Twins may develop at different rates, especially if they are fraternal twins. However, if they are identical twins, they will likely develop at the same rate.
Can Twin Pregnancies Result in more Severe Morning Sickness?
Yes, twin pregnancies can result in more severe morning sickness due to higher levels of hCG hormone in the body.
Can you have a Twin Pregnancy without any Symptoms?
It is possible to have a twin pregnancy without any noticeable symptoms. However, an ultrasound is the only way to confirm a twin pregnancy.
Can you Carry Twins Full-Term?
Yes, many women carry twins full-term and have healthy pregnancies. However, it’s essential to work closely with your doctor to manage any potential risks.
