Having Twins? Here’s How Your Pregnancy Looks Different

Two babies. While you have double the joy, you also have a pregnancy that comes with its own unique needs. If you’re expecting twins, your experience will look a little different than a singleton pregnancy, and that’s completely normal.

Your needs vary depending on exactly how many babies you’re carrying, but don’t worry. Our team of expert providers is experienced in caring for moms carrying two (or more!) babies, and we provide all the guidance you need during your prenatal appointments here at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta, Georgia. 

In the meantime, here are five ways your twin pregnancy can look different.

1. You’ll need more appointments

Twin pregnancies mean more frequent prenatal visits and ultrasounds. This extra monitoring helps your provider at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates closely track both babies’ growth and development, placentas, and your health, so nothing is missed.

2. Your body changes faster

With two babies growing at once, changes tend to show up sooner. Many women notice:

• A growing belly earlier
• Increased fatigue
• More back, hip, or pelvic pressure

Your body is working overtime, but you can implement strategies to help it adapt to all these changes. 

Support your growing belly during the day

Wear a maternity support band to help reduce strain on your belly and ease discomfort. Follow the directions on your support band to make sure you have the right fit and placement. These are intended to be worn during the day during upright activities, like walking, standing, or working.

Support your growing belly at night

Moms of twins may need more “pillow support” earlier on than moms pregnant with one baby. Sleep on your side with a pregnancy pillow to help support your body. Some pillows support your back while others support your growing belly. Find whatever combination works best for you.

Rest throughout the day

Growing two babies can be exhausting. Rest throughout the day, and put your feet up. Many women find that their feet become more tired, and elevating them can help combat swelling.

3. Your nutritional needs are different

What you eat (and drink) supports healthy growth for both babies and keeps your energy up, but to do so, twin pregnancies require more calories, more protein, and more nutrients like iron. 

For example, a mother pregnant with twins needs 1.8x more iron than a woman pregnant with one baby. You’ll also need to eat about 600 calories more per day.

4. Your pregnancy is considered high risk

Twin pregnancies are generally considered high risk because they  carry a higher risk for:

• Preterm labor
• Gestational diabetes
• Preeclampsia

Don’t worry, though. Our team is experienced in caring for high-risk pregnancies, including twins. We know what to expect, how to monitor you closely, and when to step in if concerns arise. With regular checkups, you’ll never be navigating a twin pregnancy alone.

5. You start planning for delivery sooner

Many twin pregnancies deliver earlier than single pregnancies, and timing can vary based on factors like the type of twins, baby positioning, and maternal health. 

On average, twins are delivered around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy, so your OB-GYN Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates may start talking about delivery earlier than if you were pregnant with one baby. We closely monitor your pregnancy and help plan the safest delivery timing for you and your babies.

Most twins (about 75%) are delivered via C-section. When it comes time for delivery, our team performs C-sections in a state-of-the-art birthing center with access to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

You don’t have to do this alone

A twin pregnancy can feel intense, both physically and emotionally. Having the right medical team makes all the difference, especially when you have questions, worries, or just need reassurance that what you’re feeling is normal.

Questions? You can call our Marietta, Georgia, office at 770-422-8505, or click here to schedule your next prenatal appointment.