When the Stork Drops Off Two: Twin Pregnancy

Finding out you are pregnant can be a joyous time for a woman, but discovering that you are going to be giving birth to two babies instead of one can be even more exciting. There are certain tips and advice women who are carrying twins should be informed about, and it is best to know how to take care of the two lives growing inside.

Here are some facts on twin pregnancy, and how you should properly take care of your two little ones.

How It Happens

Twin pregnancy can occur in two ways, fraternal and identical. Fraternal twins result when two eggs are fertilized by two different sperm, thus creating two separate embryos that will grow inside of the womb. These types of twins are not identical, and carry the same looks and personality, as would two siblings who were born at separate times. Fraternal twins can also be brothers, sisters, or brother and sister.

Identical twins occur when one fertilized embryo splits into two embryos. When this occurs, the two fetuses will share the same amniotic fluid and placenta while inside the womb. These twins will look exactly alike.

How to Take Care of a Twin Pregnancy

Your physician can diagnose twin pregnancy by an ultrasound or blood test. If there are two heartbeats instead of one, that is usually the best indication of a twin pregnancy. Once you discover you certainly are carrying twins, it is important to know how to property maintain your diet and nutrition level to ensure that your babies will be born healthy. Because you are carrying two instead of one, you will expect to gain 35 to 45 pounds during pregnancy, and may have to take extra vitamin supplements such as folic acid, calcium and fiber to ensure that you and your babies aren't depleted of any nutrition.

Another important thing to keep in mind when having a twin pregnancy is to realize that you may experience more discomfort while carrying two babies. It is almost very important to consult with your doctor if you wan to try for a natural birth, or deliver the twins by Cesarean section. A twin pregnancy can be very exciting, but you have to keep in mind that two babies mean twice the responsibility, during and after pregnancy. Proper preparation and planning for the birth of your twins is the best way to welcome them into the world.