For most parents, having twins comes as a complete surprise. A high-risk pregnancy is more likely if you’re expecting more than one child. This is a high-risk pregnancy, but you shouldn’t be alarmed; it just means that your GP will monitor you attentively. The most important thing to remember is that you must stay healthy!
Having a high-risk pregnancy doesn’t mean you’ll have a troubled one. This pregnancy must be continuously monitored because of the significant chance of the baby being born prematurely. Mothers who have diabetes, a history of premature labour in previous pregnancies, or other serious health concerns are at a higher risk. If you take better care of yourself when pregnant and stay healthy, you have a greater chance of having a safe pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a time when your body needs all the nutrients it can get. Pregnant women should begin taking a folic acid-enriched prenatal vitamin three months before conception. Folic acid has been scientifically established to lessen the risk of neural tube disorders including spina bifida. Forgive yourself if you haven’t begun taking the vitamin every day by now, but do so right now. Applaud yourself for taking yet another step to ensure that your children are as healthy as possible by taking this vitamin with meals and stay healthy yourself! Also, in case anyone has told you otherwise if you’re pregnant with twins, you don’t need to take two prenatal vitamins each day—just one.
First and foremost, eat a healthy diet to stay healthy
If you’re expecting twins, your daily caloric demands will rise to 600. As long as you’re getting 5 to 7 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, you’ll stay healthy. Additionally, lean protein helps to keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent hypoglycaemia. All twin pregnancies are advised to take prenatal vitamins, 1mg of folic acid, and iron supplements. For a woman with a normal body mass index (BMI), gaining 16 to 26 kg during pregnancy is considered typical.
You should be aware of what a “high-risk pregnancy” is and how to recognise it
Mothers who are pregnant with twins are often placed in the “high-risk” category. Despite the fact that it may seem ominous, there is no need to fear. Bed rest, premature labour, and caesarean delivery are all examples of high risk in your instance. Make an appointment with a high-risk expert to discuss your concerns and learn more about the measures you should take during a twin pregnancy and how you can stay healthy.
Become a member of a support group
During times of stress, connecting with other parents, whether in your neighbourhood or on social media, is a terrific idea. It might also be beneficial to join different groups, since you may not always agree with the
parenting philosophy of one organisation. Find groups of people who have similar views about parenting.
Lay down on your side
When pregnant, most women are advised to begin sleeping on their side at 20 weeks, however, when pregnant with twins, 16 weeks is recommended. As your uterus expands, it might put pressure on nearby blood arteries, reducing the amount of blood returning to your heart. This might cause dizziness or exhaustion. Compression stockings are an excellent idea if you expect to have greater swelling than usual.
Preparation is the key to success
According to statistics, 60% of women who get pregnant with twins give birth before the 37th week of their pregnancy. When twins are delivered before 32 weeks, around 10% of the time, they are more likely to have difficulties. As a result, plan your baby shower well in advance and aim to have your baby’s room ready by the time he or she is 30 weeks old. Keep a few extra baby clothing available in case you need to exchange them for a different size since you never know what size your infants will be. Once you’ve reached 30 weeks, it’s imperative that you have emergency contact information and your mobile phone close at hand.
Identify reliable sources of information
Learn as much as you can about twin pregnancy from self-help books. There are a number of well-written books about pregnancy and child-rearing that are worth reading. You may also look for blogs and videos on the subject. There are a few good books that have been mentioned in one of our previous articles, ‘7 parenting books every parent should read’
Keeping a positive, yet cautious, frame of mind during your pregnancy can benefit both you and your unborn child’s health and development and will help you to stay healthy. Be patient and take things to step by step, focussing on each day and each week at a time. Pay heed to what your body and twins are telling you by eating healthily and exercising regularly. Every additional day your infants spend in the womb will benefit them after they are born. Since you’re bringing two marvels into the world, your grin should become broader as your tummy grows.
