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Clomid Twins: How Likely Are They?

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fraternal twins who were conceived using clomid
Clomid twins are mostly fraternal, but always lovable

If you’re trying to conceive (or even just know someone who’s trying to) you would have undoubtedly heard of the drug Clomid.

Clomifene or Clomiphene, is a medication used to treat women who do not ovulate or suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome. However, it also has an interesting side-effect: it increases your chances of having Clomid twins.

Twins are delightful gifts to any family – and while most of us may not be expecting twins to begin with, some mothers actively wish (and try) to have twins. There’s plenty of ways to do it – in vitro, implantation and so on, but Clomid is one of the most affordable and safe ways to increase your odds.

Clomid dosage for twins is a developing field of study – and may just help you conceive your next bundles of joy.

But how does this all work? Well, the science really relies on the interaction between Clomid and the woman’s body, in addition to some other factors that we’ll be talking about below. If you’re wondering how to take Clomid to conceive twins, you may find the following information helpful.

What Exactly are Clomid Twins?

Well, they’re exactly what it says on the tin: Twins that have been born due to the mother taking Clomid. While not a guarantee, there’s certainly pretext for twins that have been born by mothers taking the drug.

The odds are a little bit low – around 1 in 100 pregnancies – but considering that the number of women trying to conceive that take the drug versus the number that doesn’t, the numbers may change in the future.

Can you overfeed a baby

Of course, Clomid and twins are not a direct correlation. There are plenty of other factors that can increase or decrease a woman’s chances to have twins:

  • Age – women around the ages of 35 and above have a higher chance to produce twins
  • Diet – especially cultural diets, can change your possibility of developing twins
  • Genetics – if you come from a family of twins, you’re more likely to have twins yourself
  • Environment – this can include everything from temperature, stress levels, or even the kind of people you surround yourself with

… which are all factors difficult to quantify. That’s not even getting into the kind of twins that a woman can have (which we’ve talked about in greater detail here), but there’s no denying that Clomid does help with having twins. But how does this medication work, exactly?

Clomid and Twins

As a medication, Clomid doesn’t do anything too particularly complicated to understand: it makes a woman’s body more likely to ovulate. It does this by changing the chemicals that induce ovulation, giving it a stronger kick of sorts, which helps women who have difficulty conceiving.

The most relevant part here is when this interaction happens to a woman who has a relatively normal fertility cycle: since her ovulation is already working as intended, adding Clomid on top of the process gives the ovulation a boost.

Boosting egg production is actually the model of which by all fertility drugs operate – which means you can release two egg cells on other medication as well.

This leads to the likelihood of having twins because:

  • In a normal ovulation process, the woman releases one egg cell for fertilization
  • But when Clomid is introduced, it stimulates the hormones responsible for releasing eggs
  • Which can cause more than one egg to be released from the ovaries
  • And can be fertilized by a separate sperm cell

This is why Clomid twins are almost always fraternal twins. Fraternal twins are formed by having two separate eggs cells be fertilized and attach to the uterine wall at the same time, which is far more common due to how Clomid interacts with the female body.

Identical twins due to Clomid aren’t impossible, but are much, much rarer.

what are maternal twins and other facts you need to know

There are also instances where taking Clomid increases the chance of having triplets, or even multiple babies born at the same time.

While the exact numbers are difficult to pin down due to factors outside of the medication affecting the probabilities of having a multiple birth, it does establish a pattern in how fertility medication can help.

Clomid Dosage for Twins

Now, while this article is no substitute for an actual doctor – as we highly recommend you get yourself checked out before even thinking of taking Clomid – there are some discussions around the web of mothers that share their experiences.

So far, it would seem like 100 to 50 mg of Clomid is the most common number that crops up in these discussions, either for women who’ve had fraternal or identical twins. Since Clomid can only be obtained with a prescription, we highly recommend going to your doctor first to get thoroughly checked out if you are fine with taking such a drug.

As it messes with your hormones, it may have some side effects that you might not be ready for unless warned.

If you want to know more about Clomid and how to take Clomid to conceive twins, we’ve found a handy video for you to check out here:

As a drug, Clomid has helped countless women all over the world conceive. Clomid and twins aren’t as distant as the numbers may seem, and even a perfectly healthy ovulation cycle can use a boost from the medication. While the numbers aren’t final, and the factors far from one, there’s no denying that Clomid dosage makes twins more likely.

And isn’t that what matters at the end of the day? Clomid twins may be rare, but certainly not impossible for those who are looking for twin bundles of joy. And even if you’re taking the drug merely to help you conceive, it’s still a possibility that you might have to welcome at your next ultrasound!

Do you have stories or know anyone who swears by Clomid when it comes to conceiving twins?

Share them in the comments below or participate in our online community for more discussions like this. You may also check out our website for more information on how to raise twins – or just more tidbits on them!

Managing Weight Gain With Twins: A Per-Trimester Guide

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weight gain with twins
A twin pregnancy can feel like it lasts much longer than a singleton pregnancy.

A twin pregnancy means double the reason to celebrate. But you’re also in for some serious weight gain with twins. Don’t worry, though.

While you may put on significantly more weight than you would with a singleton pregnancy, it’s all perfectly normal and actually quite necessary as you’re carrying two babies.

Though all the extra weight can make it seem impossible to get back to your normal size after all this, just concentrate on your pregnancy and on gaining the right amount of weight for now.

If you’re really intent on getting back to your pre-pregnancy size after the births, watch what you eat during these next few months.

Being mindful of your diet will also help you avoid weight-related pregnancy issues like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

So how many pounds will you gain during a twin pregnancy? Let’s break it down.

Weight Gain with Twins: What to Expect

Doctors suggest keeping twin pregnancy weight gain to between 37 to 54 pounds. That’s roughly double the weight gain recommended for singleton pregnancies.

However, if you were already a bit overweight before your pregnancy, you should aim to gain a little less than that. If you were underweight before you got pregnant, aim to gain a little more. If you were obese pre-pregnancy, with a BMI of 30 or more, keep your pregnancy weight gain between 25 and 42 pounds.

how to manage and treat round ligament pain with twins

If all that extra weight seems extreme to you, don’t worry. It’s not all fat that will sit around long after you’ve birthed your babies.

The twins themselves will account for between 10 to 12 pounds of the total weight gain.

During your pregnancy, you will be producing extra blood and a lot of amniotic fluid. These liquids help your babies grow in the womb. You’ll also be retaining a fair amount of water weight.

Once your water breaks and your babies are in your arms, this extra weight will be gone. You will drop about 30 pounds in the first couple of weeks after birth, which means you’ll be in about the same place as someone who gave birth to just one baby.

Twin Pregnancy Weight Gain by Trimester

Given that you’re advised to gain about 37 pounds, does this mean you should be putting on a pound a week during your pregnancy?

Well, it’s not always that simple. There will be weeks when you’ll put on a couple of pounds and weeks when you’ll remain the same weight. There will also be weeks when you suddenly gain a lot of weight.

what to expect at 5 months pregnant with twins

Here’s a rough guide on what to expect in terms of weight gain during each trimester in a twin pregnancy.

  • First trimester — This is when you’ll be experiencing a lot of morning sickness. Your main challenge will be trying to keep food and liquids down. Instead of worrying about not putting on enough weight, focus on controlling your nausea. Some moms find relief in eating small carbohydrate-rich meals. Ideally, you should be gaining about a pound a week in the first trimester, but if the queasiness isn’t letting you eat much, don’t worry. You can catch up when you start to feel better. Make sure you stay hydrated and don’t forget to take your prenatal vitamins.
  • Second trimester — For most moms, the worst of the morning sickness will have ended by this point. Now you can make up for the weight you didn’t gain in the last three months. Aim to put on between one and a half to two pounds a week by adding a lot of protein- and calcium-rich foods to your diet. Incorporate lots of beef, chicken, turkey, pasteurized cheese and milk, legumes, and whole grains into your diet during this trimester.
  • Third trimester — If you’ve been successfully putting on between one and a half to two pounds per week, just continue on this path. By this point, your babies will have significantly grown such that you may be experiencing indigestion and heartburn every time you eat. Don’t let that stop you, though, because your twins need all the nutrition they can get in this final stretch. By the eighth month, the weight gain will have slowed down to a pound a week and just a pound a month in the final month.

Not all pregnancies are the same, so try not to compare your pregnancy weight gain with that of other moms. The important thing is to be mindful of your and your twins’ health.

Don’t be too concerned about losing the pregnancy weight just yet. Remember that insufficient weight gain during a twin pregnancy boosts the risk of preterm birth. Consult your doctor about your weight gain and keep track of your weight throughout your pregnancy.

Do you have any tips for controlling weight gain with twins? Share your experience in the comments below.

Are Twins Genetic?

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are twins genetic

Having a child is quite something, but having twins is quite something else. But to the question that parents often ask: “are twins genetic?” the answer can be surprisingly simple, but complicated to understand.

There’s a lot of myths and urban legends about how twins are born, but thanks to advances in today’s technology, getting information about how twins happen is a lot easier.

Twins are more common than you think: 1 in every 34 children is likely to be part of twins, triplets, or even quadruplets.

As the years go by, more twins are being born, suggesting that there is some trend to twins running in the family. Science, however, has examined this phenomenon with a much more detailed eye and has concluded with one very simple answer to this question: yes.

So Is Having Twins Genetic? Does that mean I can’t have twins?

Not precisely. If you’re reading this article while you’re expecting, there is still every chance that you’ll have twins.

There are seven different types of twins, and some of them don’t really rely on genetics to happen. And while there’s no other way aside from genetics to have even some assurance that you’ll end up with two new babies to take care of instead of one, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Can Identical Twins Look Different

To understand this, let’s have a brief recap of the 3 simple steps of how a fetus is formed:

  • The germinal stage, where all the cells do the work. Here’s when the sperm inseminates the egg, forms the zygote that will eventually turn into your baby, and attach to your uterine wall. This is also the stage when the placenta first develops.
  • Next is the embryonic stage, where the zygotes settles into its new home and starts developing the parts necessary for a human to survive – think of the building blocks of your baby.
  • Finally, the fetal stage, where the baby fully develops with all the limbs and organs needed for it to enter the world.

Twinning, or events that spark twins, often happen at the first two stages. And while genetics can play a role, there’s also nothing stopping your body (or in this case, the cell) to suddenly wake up one day and decide to give you more bundles of joy than you were expecting.

That’s not even counting the other things that can affect twin growth (or the likelihood of having twins), like race, diet, and especially hormones. You can read more about those tidbits here.

So are twins hereditary? Yes. But you’re probably wondering (especially if you’re part of a pair of twins, or your spouse is) how likely is it to happen to my family?

Are Twins Hereditary and Do Twins Run In The Family?

To give a short answer: quite a little more likely than most people, actually.

To show how this is possible might prove to be a little complicated. Here are a few fast facts that you can keep in mind when you come from a family of twins:

  • The mother’s genes matter much more than the father’s
  • Genetically speaking, a family of twins is more than likely to keep the “twin gene” going down the line (so yes, having twins skip a generation is more common than you think)
  • However, this gene that affects twinning only applies to fraternal twins, not identical twins

This reinforces what we learned earlier: while genetics may play a role, they don’t completely decide whether or not twins run in the family. But if you are looking for your chances to have fraternal twins instead of identical twins, then it’s best to look to your mother and grandmother for the odds.

twin sisters
So while genetics can play a role, it doesn’t play everything.

Hold on, you might say – what makes the genetics for fraternal twins different from identical twins? It’s thanks to a little something called hyperovulation.

Hyperovulation: The Twin Effect

See, a woman usually only releases one egg during ovulation. This egg then takes one sperm cell and gets fertilized, attaches to the uterus, then develops into a baby.

Hyperovulating women work a little differently – they can release more than one egg during ovulation, which has every chance of being fertilized by a different sperm cell – resulting in fraternal twins.

It’s the reason why fraternal twins look different despite being born at the same time – they’re literally siblings. Identical twins, on the other hand, come from a single fertilized egg that split into two during the embryonic stage, meaning that they come from the same building blocks: a single egg cell and a single sperm cell.

So while the chances of getting identical or even mirror twins can be completely random, the gene for hyperovulation is often passed from mother to daughter throughout the family line. This makes a family more inclined to having fraternal twins as their descendants (though there is some evidence supporting that twins in general run down the female line as well.)

If you need more information on twins, here’s an excellent video that can give you a more detailed rundown of how the fetus develops:

[responsive_video type=’youtube’ hide_related=’0′ hide_logo=’0′ hide_controls=’0′ hide_title=’0′ hide_fullscreen=’0′ autoplay=’0′]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-dVvo7zbAU[/responsive_video]

Conclusion: Are Twins Genetic ?

So if you’ve come to look for an answer as to are twins genetic – yes, they really are!

Remember that not all twins are equal, and the chances of getting twins aren’t really dependent on your genes alone – so if you’re wishing for a surprise when it comes to finally delivering your lovely baby into the world, the chances of them not entering it alone is still a distinct possibility.

twins hereditary
Fraternal twins or not, you’ll still love them either way.

And besides, no matter the kind of twin that you’ll have, the important thing is that you will love them both with all your heart. It may seem like a challenge, but raising twins is quite delightful.

It’s a parenting experience that will set you apart from most parents that you may know but can also give you the unique kind of joy that comes with raising such a pair.

Do you come from a family of twins or married to someone who is? Let us know about how your pregnancy goes in our online community! Or if you’d like, you can leave your own thoughts about the likelihood of having twins down in the comments section.

Do Twins Have the Same Fingerprints?

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twins fingerprints

They are similar in almost any aspect of their appearance. This could lead you to ask, “Do twins have the same fingerprints?”

Each of us have features that distinguish us from our siblings and even from our parents. Although we carry the same genetic material from our parents, our own DNAs are unique as we developed differently during our mother’s pregnancies.

These unique characteristics, of course, include our fingerprints. They are perhaps our most distinctive feature that sets us apart from our family, friends and relatives.

Twins, on the other hand, are special cases. Whether they are fraternal or identical, their genetic code share significant amounts of similarities.

Now, the question we will tackle here is: Do they share the same fingerprint patterns?

First, let us tackle how twins develop. After establishing the facts of twins’ development during their mothers’ pregnancies, we will look at scientific evidence and facts that can determine whether or not twins share similar fingerprints.

How Twins Develop

As mentioned earlier, there are actually two types of twins: the fraternal and the identical.

The identical twins are the ones that people often mistake for one another. They share nearly all physical attributes, from the hair, to the voice, the height and everything else.

According to the National Geographic, identical twins are the result of a single fertilized cell from the mother (referred to as ovum) that split into two when embryonic development progressed. Researchers say that identical twins have the same genetic code as they came from one single ovum.

An article published by the University of Utah indicated that identical twins owe their nearly identical attributes to that single genetic code they inherited from that one egg that split into two after fertilization.

twins sleeping together

According to the article, around 90% of the twins that they studied share the same height, for instance.

On the other hand, fraternal twins are those that developed from two eggs fertilized by two sperm cells. Thus, while they may look alike in some aspects, fraternal twins actually have only 50% of their DNA shared – their genetic codes, after all, come from the same mother and father.

According to Sciencing.com, this is due to the twins not having similar chromosomes. Of course, this is a result of being born out of two individual eggs fertilized by two individual sperms.

Here is an analogy that will simplify identical and fraternal twin development. Think of a single egg as a set of specific genetic instructions, and a single sperm cell also as a storage of specific genetic code.

In identical twins, that genetic code simply splits into two when the egg divides itself. Before that happens, the genetic code from the sperm has also written itself into the code in the egg during fertilization.

When the egg splits, none of the combined genetic code is not altered. It is simply divided into two similar sets.

In the case of fraternal twins, they are the result of four genetic codes (two eggs, two sperms) that merged into two combinations. Thus, the genetic code of each fraternal twin is significantly different from the other.

With that out of the way, the discussion all boils down to the same conclusion: whether they are fraternal or identical, twins still share several aspects of their genetic code and, in the case of fraternal twins, some aspects of their appearance.

Do those aspects include fingerprints? Let’s take a look at what science and experts have to say on the matter.

Evidence and Science Say No, Twins Fingerprints Are Not Similar

It’s actually an interesting question. If twins do share the same fingerprint, wouldn’t that make life difficult for the two of them?

For example, fingerprints play a very important role in law enforcement. In a crime scene, one of the first pieces of evidence that are sought by investigators are fingerprints that could have been left behind by the perpetrator.

Let’s say that one of a pair of twins committed the crime. If they have the same fingerprint, wouldn’t it be difficult for both the twins and law enforcement agencies to prosecute the case?

Well, according to the experts, no, twins don’t share the same fingerprint profile.

Gary W. Jones, a former specialist for the FBI, told the New York Times that, while genetics do play a part in the formation of the patterns in a finger print, other factors influence their formation.

One of these factors, the article said, is the rate of growth experienced by the baby’s skeletal system. As each of the individual twin moves around the womb during gestation period, they also interact differently with the amniotic sac.

The amniotic sac is the bag of fluid that protects the fetus or, in this case, the fetuses while they grow and develop. The sac acts as a cushion that protects babies from blunt impact, as well as an ‘incubator’ to influence the baby’s development.

Now, according to Jones, each twin experiences different pressures in each of their space within the amniotic sac. This also leads to different fingerprint patterns for each baby in the pair, the forensic expert added.

The ex-FBI specialist also noted to the New York Times that, in the century in which fingerprint science has been developed, there has never been a result in which two people shared the same fingerprint data.

Thus, fingerprints play a huge role in forensics, because it is the only attribute in a person’s physical identity that can be altered.

The only ways through they can be altered is for records to be tampered, which is a federal crime, and in the unfortunate event that the person experiences skin disorders or a severe accident.

So, to close the subject, we go back to the question we asked first: “Do twins have the same fingerprints?”

Well, the evidence and the knowledge of experts point to the contrary. This means that, no, despite their genetic similarities, there’s only one aspect in which twins are unique from one another – their fingerprints.

Twins in the Oven: What is Full Term for Twins?

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identical twins
Newborn Identical Twins

For mothers who are about to give birth to twins, the last trimester is imminently the time to be extra cautious. Because this last stretch can be a bit more stressful, knowing precisely when the full term for twins is will significantly bring a sense of comfort especially when mothers are especially particular about preterm labor and essential preparations.

This article will give helpful insight as to knowing just when your twins are ready to pop out of the oven as well as the essentials to pre and post-natal care.

How Many Weeks is a Full Term Pregnancy for Twins?

Pregnancy Day By Day editor-in-chief Maggie Blott, M.B.,B.S., reports that there are about 1 in 31 twin births in the United since the 80’s. Among those births, more than half of the twins delivered were born at about 37 weeks, which is considered normal and healthy when giving birth to multiples.

Baby Center UK says, the average timeline for twin pregnancies is about 36.4 weeks and doctors consider 37 weeks as the full term pregnancy for twins. Babies born within this time (32 to 37 weeks) have no complications and actually do well.

what to expect at 9 months pregnant with twins

Preparing for the Arrival of Your Twins

Since multiples are born earlier compared to singletons, it is important to already have a hospital bag packed as early as the 26th week of pregnancy. During the wait time, the Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA) advises thinking about how you would want to feed your babies.

It is important to inquire and attend antenatal classes specifically for twin pregnancies. These classes include sessions on how to breastfeed more than one child. Being able to know the merits of bottle feeding, breastfeeding, or the mixed approach is also very helpful.

How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Twins

When pregnant with twins or multiples, there are a lot of changes that go through until you reach full term. One of which is that weight gain is rapid as early as the first trimester.

The vomiting and nausea can be pretty intense, as well as the pain of breast tenderness. Such physical changes call for extra TLC, so it is important to always have someone with you at home during these times.

Another important thing to note according to The Office on Women’s Health is to visit your doctor. With twins, visits to the doctor will happen more often than those moms who are pregnant with singletons.

Mothers who carry twins have a higher risk of low birth weight, preterm birth, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and cesarean birth. To avoid complications, frequent prenatal visits are a must. Doing so, allows your doctor to monitor the health of your twins, including your own.

Close monitoring will give you the best chance of having your babies being born full term and at a healthy weight. Plus, you will be able to know the vitamins you need and what activities are unsafe during the pregnancy. In short, your doctor is your best friend at this critical time.

how many weeks is a full term pregnancy for twins
Taking care of yourself as a mom is important to have happy and healthy twins

What if I Give Birth Early? What Should I Know About Pre-Term Labor?

It is important to know the signs of preterm labor in order to avoid complications and be able to get help on time. Since preterm labor is “silent,” being aware of your body is key. The first thing to be keen with is contractions. If you experience these symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible:

  • Having four or five contractions in an hour
  • Pressure in the pelvic area that is persistently rhythmic
  • An aching back
  • Experiencing cramps

There are also other signs of preterm labor like diarrhea and vaginal discharge or bleeding. Any discharge that looks streaked or bloody may mean that the cervix is about to dilate.

If you feel a gush of fluid or a leak from the vagina, this too can mean that the membranes have prematurely ruptured. This fluid is from the amniotic sac and when it breaks, the fluid gushes through the vagina. Finally, another symptom is that certain gut-feel that something is just not right. When things like these happen, go straight to your doctor.

After Giving Birth, What Now?

Although the pregnancy and delivery can be a cause of worry, it is essential to look forward to what happens next- your twins’ arrival! This is a joy for any mom but then, take note that care is still very much needed. Because your body is still recovering, you’d definitely need to do a number of changes at home.

To allow ample rest, limit the number of visitors at home. Be sure to have some extra hands to help with preparing meals and cleaning up the house. Eat healthily. Drink a lot of water and take in a lot of fiber to avoid constipation. Prevent swelling in your legs by putting your feet up and to avoid vaginal discomfort, sit in a warm bath. Whenever the need arises, apply nipple cream to sore breasts to soothe the pain.

Always be in check with your emotional health. If you feel sad, be sure to open up to your partner and family. If the sadness doesn’t seem to go away, be sure to call your doctor. Take all the rest you can whenever possible. Your babies always need you at your best.

There is nothing like the joy of giving birth and being a mom.

Even if this brings a number of physical and emotional changes, being ready with the essentials throughout the journey of pregnancy to giving birth is a must and will be a source of comfort early on. From knowing when the full term for twins is, doing necessary preparations, being emotionally ready, and of course realizing complications and risks, achieving a safe and healthy pregnancy is more than possible.

Identical Twins: Information, Facts and Common Questions

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identical twins
Newborn Identical Twins

Multiple births are becoming more and more common today due to assisted fertility treatments and other advanced reproductive techniques that women undergo to help them conceive.

Twins make up 90 percent of multiple births and triplets, quadruplets, and the occasional birth of more than 4 babies account for the remaining 10 percent.

There are two types of twins – identical twins, aka monozygotic twins, and fraternal twins, aka dizygotic twins.

Identical Twins Babies Definition

They are defined as a pair of twins that developed from a single fertilized egg and shares the same genetic information, same sex, same blood type, and almost similar physical characteristics.

Although that may be the case, these babies will still grow up as unique individuals.

How Are Identical Twins Formed?

  1. When a sperm travels through the fallopian tube, either from sexual intercourse or in-vitro fertilization, it should fertilize one egg or zygote.
  2. They are monozygotic, which means they are formed when one egg is fertilized by one sperm but splits into two.
  3. They then develop into two embryos with genetic codes that are nearly identical. This usually happens during the earliest stage of fetal development when the fertilized egg is merely a cluster of cells that float down into the uterus. Although the process can be explained, the reasons why it happens remain a mystery.
  4. The time the egg splits determines whether the twins will be sharing an amniotic sac or not. The earlier the split, the more independent an embryo will become by having its own amniotic sac, chorion – a membrane that surrounds the sac, and placenta.

identical twins in bunny outfits

Can Identical Twins be in Separate Sacs?

Yes, they can. Monochorionic-diamniotic kind of twins share one placenta but have two separate amniotic sacs. This usually occurs when a single fertilized egg splits after 4 to 8 days of fertilization. This accounts for 70 percent of all identical twin babies.

However, although each baby has their own amniotic sac within a shared chorion, they still share one placenta.

This puts them at risk for TTTS or Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome. This condition happens when the blood vessels are transfusing blood unequally between babies.

One might get excess blood flow and amniotic fluid that can result in heart strain. While the other baby’s blood flow is decreased, which can result in slower growth due to poor delivery of nourishment and oxygen, and less amniotic fluid. If monitored closely, this condition can be managed properly.

Monochorionic-Monoamniotic twins happen when a single fertilized egg split after 9 days of fertilization. The twins share one placenta and one amniotic sac. This poses a higher risk for both babies and must be monitored closely throughout the pregnancy.

Babies are at risk of complications such as cord entanglement and compression because they share one amniotic sac, which increases the odds of the cord getting damaged or intertwined.

Can They Have Different Placentas?

It depends. The placenta plays a very important role during pregnancy. It is the organ that develops in the uterine wall during the early stage of pregnancy and connects to the baby through the umbilical cord. Its major role is to provide nutrients, deliver oxygen, and removes all the waste products that may harm the baby.

The number of placentas in multiple pregnancies vary. As mentioned above, the earlier the split of the egg happened, the more independent the embryos will be. If the split of the fertilized egg is delayed for days, the embryos are highly likely to be genetically identical and will develop and share one placenta.

Do Identical Twins Share the Same DNA?

They share the same genetic makeup and therefore share the same DNA. A person’s DNA contains all the genetic information that makes up the person – from the color of the eyes, skin, and hair to personality traits and abilities.

Experts have conducted research and tests on the DNA of twins. The result is that identical twins have 99.99% similarities in their DNA while fraternal twins only have 50-70% DNA similarities.

These genetic similarities explain why they look alike, and why they usually have the same characteristics, abilities, and behaviors.

adult identical twins

This makes it nearly impossible for people to tell which twin committed a crime even after genetic testing has been done. Experts are hoping that advancement in technology would make it possible to tell the epigenetic differences of twins someday.

However, in times like this, other factors can still be used to determine which twin committed a crime. One way is through fingerprints. Every individual has a unique set of fingerprints. Even twins who look alike and share the same DNA have unique fingerprints.

Fingerprint patterns are not part of genetics. The environment in the womb, the position of the baby, nourishment, and growth rate of each baby all affect the formation of the fingerprint patterns. For example, one baby might be touching something that puts pressure and produces details of the fingerprint pattern.

Identical Twins That Don’t Look Alike

Having the same DNA information, same sex, and the same physical characteristics does not mean that twins are going to look exactly alike. There may be small details in one of the baby’s physical characteristics that do not mirror the other. And although their parents dress their twins the same, other factors can influence appearance.

These include environmental and epigenetic factors that explain why and how they can be different in physical appearance, personality, and temperament.

In the Womb: Twin Pregnancy

Mothers will not immediately tell if they have conceived twins. Suspicions may arise because of the severity of pregnancy symptoms. An ultrasound can easily determine whether the expecting mom is having twins.

The Good

In multiple or twin pregnancies, babies are already starting to bond inside the womb. Starting at around 14 weeks, twins start to reach out to each other and bond.

They already learn how to share an amniotic sac, placenta, and nourishment from their mother. These factors contribute to their physical and emotional well-being when they are out of the womb.

The Bad

In terms of pregnancy symptoms, expectant mothers may experience more severe symptoms and the pregnancy will be considered as high-risk. Upon discovery of the multiple pregnancy, they will be closely monitored by their doctors because of the babies’ increased risk for complications and preterm labor.

The Worst Case Scenario

Multiple pregnancies do not only pose a risk to unborn babies, but to the mother as well. In worst cases, even if the pregnancy is closely monitored, complications still happen and cause the fetal death of one or both babies.

With proper monitoring, diet, and prenatal care, multiple pregnancies can be managed, and both twins and mother survive all associated problems and complications.

Chances of Identical Twins

identical twins with their mom

Chances of conceiving twins have increased since assisted fertility treatments and drugs, as well as advanced reproductive techniques, have been introduced to women who are having infertility problems due to age and health conditions. Fertility treatments such as fertility drugs boost ovulation.

Here are other factors that may increase a woman’s chances of conceiving twins.

  • Maternal Age

Women who get pregnant over the age of 30 are more likely to conceive twins due to a rise in the follicle stimulating hormone or FSH levels. The hormone responsible for egg development in the ovaries even before they are released.

  • Heredity

If there is a history of having twins on both sides of the family, the odds of having twins is also significantly higher.

  • Weight

Women who are obese usually find it hard to conceive due to other health reasons. Ironically, their odds of having twins is higher because of their higher levels of estrogen.

  • Height

It is unclear why but women who are taller have higher odds of conceiving twins.

  • Race

Records show that the African-American women have a higher rate of having twins.

  • Diet

According to research, women who consume more dairy products have a higher chance of conceiving twins.

In general, they happen every 1 in 250 births. The odds of having identical twins is less common than having fraternal twins. It does not run in families and can happen randomly. Some families who have more than one set can chalk it up to luck and coincidence rather than genetics.

Non-identical are more common because it is influenced by genetics. If your family has a history of having multiple sets of twins, the chance of you having twins is high.

Although identical twins share the same genetic makeup, one womb, physical characteristics, and many more, they are not necessarily indistinguishable. They should be considered as unique individuals and given opportunities that are unique to each twin.

Each twin should be allowed to dress up according to their personalities and develop relationships outside the other twins’ circle.

Fraternal Twins: Facts, Information and Common Questions

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fraternal twins
Fraternal Twins Boy and Girl

Fraternal twins make up the majority of twins and account for 90% of multiple pregnancies. Unlike identical twins, this kind of twinning results in babies that have different sex and look different.

Read this in-depth information about how they are formed, how they differ from other twins and answers to your other questions.

What are Fraternal Twins?

They are dizygotic. They developed from two sets of sperm and egg that produces two babies that can be both girls, boys, or a combination.

They are independent. They do not share the same placenta and develop a separate amniotic sac.

How are Fraternal Twins Formed?

In a normal reproduction process, the sperm travels to meet the egg after sexual intercourse or in-vitro fertilization. If two eggs were released, two sperm will be able to fertilize the eggs that will eventually produce two genetically unique babies.

Twinning happens in several ways and produces higher order multiples depending on the number of eggs produced and the zygosity. This usually happens during hyperovulation, when a woman releases multiple eggs – mostly two.

In the case of these twins, two zygotes are produced with a genetic background like that of any two siblings born at different times. The only difference is that twins are conceived at the same time.

Do They Have the Same DNA?

No, they do not have the same DNA makeup. Just like any siblings, they share about 50% of their DNA and half each of their parent’s DNA. Each twin gets half of the mom’s egg and the half from dad’s sperm.

Can Fraternal Twins Look Identical?

fraternal twins
Fraternal Boy and Girl Twin That Look Alike

Since they do not share the same DNA, they also do not share the same chromosomes at the time of fertilization. However, they still share parts of their parents’ DNA so they may look alike, but not exactly identical.

Even twins that look alike can be distinguishable. Twins who were raised in the same home and were educated the same way, develop individual tastes and personalities.

Can They Be the Same Gender?

Yes, they can be both boys or both girls. Unlike identical twins who share the same sex chromosomes from a single fertilized zygote, they were produced by two separate zygotes that carry different sex chromosomes from their father.

Monozygotic twins, however, are always the same gender.

Doctors and health professionals usually identify if same-sex twins are identical or fraternal through other factors such as having shared placenta, chorion, and amniotic sac or through DNA testing. DNA testing is the surefire way to determine if twins are identical or fraternal.

Fraternal Twins Boy and Girl

Since conception happened for each egg, each egg carries the sex chromosome of the father. A girl has XX chromosomes while a boy has XY chromosomes. A boy-girl combination is the most common form of these kind of twins.

Chances of Having Fraternal Twins

The chances of having these twins are very much like with any kind of multiples. There are certain factors that increase the odds of a woman to conceive more than one baby at the same time.

  • Assisted fertility treatments – This treatment includes IVF or In-Vitro Fertilization, fertility drugs, Intrauterine Insemination, and other advanced reproductive techniques. These treatments are becoming more and more common as well as more and more effective as years go by. The success rate of these treatments encourages women and couples to take this route. However, this increases the odds of conceiving multiples and the risks of pregnancy complications. This is because it encourages hyperovulation.
  • Age of the Mother – It is believed that the older the woman gets, the harder it is for her to get pregnant. Although this is true, according to research, women over the age of 30 are more likely to conceive twins, if they ever get pregnant. This is because as women age, the follicle stimulating hormone level also increases.
  • Weight – Women who are overweight also struggle with conception due to a lot of underlying medical conditions and the possible threat to their health and the baby’s health when they conceive. Some complications include high-blood pressure, diabetes, and many more.
  • However, as ironic as it may sound, women who are overweight have higher levels of estrogen. This increased levels of estrogen stimulate the ovaries, which in turn produces more than one egg during ovulation.
  • Family history – The odds of having twins in a family is hereditary. If a woman’s family has a history of twins and women who hyperovulate, the chances of producing twins are also increased.
  • Race – Twinning also varies according to race. Studies show that some race produces more twins than others. This is especially true for Central-Africans and African-American women.
  • Diet and nutrition – Some studies show that women who consume a huge amount of dairy products have a higher chance of conceiving twins.
  • Height – Some research suggests that women who are taller have higher odds of having twins.

Are They Genetic?

fraternal twins
Mom With Fraternal Twin Babies

Yes, they can be. The factors above influence a woman’s odds of conceiving twins or multiples. Hyperovulation can be genetic, but it can result in multiple pregnancies of two, three, four, and higher multiples.

It just so happen that twins account for 90% of multiple pregnancies and having these twins is the most common type of twins.

Risks of Carrying Twins

  • A woman carrying multiples is automatically considered as high-risk. The higher the number of fetuses in the womb, the greater the risks. This is because it poses a lot of potential complications for both mother and babies.
  • The mother’s womb is fit for a single baby. If a twin or multiple pregnancies occur, complications such as Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome where twins do not get the equal amount of blood, oxygen, and nutrients that may affect the growth and development of babies in the womb, as well as cord entanglement.
  • Birth defects are also a risk. This includes spina bifida, heart problems, defects of the digestive tract, and other neural tube defects that are due to reasons such as low amniotic fluid, TTTS, cord entanglement, and other reasons caused by unequal distribution of nutrition.
  • For the mother, high-blood pressure, anemia, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and a higher chance of preterm labor and miscarriage. This is the reason why twins are born earlier than their singleton counterpart. If not, they are usually induced before 38 weeks and delivered via cesarean section.
  • Then there is the risk of postpartum hemorrhage where the mother bleeds heavily after delivery due to the over-distended uterus and the large placental area.

Fraternal Twins in the Womb

Twins start to bond in the womb. They learn how to share nutrients and start to reach out to each other as they grow and develop. They grow in separate amniotic sacs and have separate placentas. They cannot physically reach out to each other, but they can feel each other in the womb and give each other some nudge.

Other Interesting Facts

  • They may be conceived at different times by different fathers. When hyperovulation occurs, multiple eggs are released but it can happen a few days apart. So when one egg is released and the mother had sexual intercourse, that egg is fertilized and travels to implant in the uterus. As this happens, another egg can be released and fertilized by another sperm that may come from a different man.
  • They do not have the same fingerprints. This is because fingerprint patterns are not affected by genetics. It forms as the fetuses develop in the womb, and the patterns are influenced by the environment in the womb.
  • Twins develop a shared language as they grow up, and somehow feel each other’s emotions.

These are all the facts about how these twins are formed and other information regarding their genetic makeup and development. Fraternal twins are remarkably amazing.

Twin Gender Reveal Ideas for the New Twin Mom

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colorful smoke

Knowing the gender of the baby is one of the most exciting parts of pregnancy. If you are carrying twins, the excitement is doubled. Is it going to be two boys? Or is it going to be two adorable girls? How wonderful would it be if it is a boy and a girl?

You are just dying to know and cannot wait until your anatomy scan. If you had an early screening, you are most likely to know the gender of your twin pregnancy when you get the result of the blood test.

Surely, after knowing the gender of your babies, you would like your family and friends to know as well. You may opt for a simple gender reveal or a big party. It is ultimately up to you.

If a simple ultrasound printout is not enough and you need some twin gender reveal ideas that are creative, fun, and memorable, here are some of our suggestions.

twin pregnancy first trimester

Simple Twin Gender Reveal Ideas

If you want to let your immediate family and closest friends in on the secret, but still like to keep it lowkey without all the fuss of having to prepare a huge party, you just need a little bit of creativity, some props, and maybe a camera. 

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Holiday-Themed Gender Reveal Announcement

You can make the holiday or any special event even more special and memorable by announcing the gender of your twins.

1. Easter Gender Reveal Idea

For instance, you can use props that are related to the event or occasion like easter eggs that are both blue or pink if you are having boy boy or girl girl twins or a blue and pink egg if its boy girl twins followed by a creative pun or statement like, “ Somebunny is pregnant” or “We are EGGSpecting twins” with due dates and take a picture to send to your family and friends.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R76yE09bH2Q[/video_page_section]

2. Halloween Gender Reveal Idea

For Halloween, you can use Jack-o-lanterns with carvings. Display them in your home as a centerpiece and let your family and friends see them if you are planning a small get-together. You can also simply take a photo with the lanterns and send them to family and friends.

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3. Christmas Gender Reveal Idea

For Christmas, You can bake Christmas cakes or Christmas cookies that indicate your twins’ genders. You can wrap them and send to each person you want to let in on the secret.

You can also simply make creative cards with drawings of Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and two boy or girl elves or both. You can use a Christmas ugly sweater themed photoshoot with your partner with two extra costumes for the twins.

Holiday announcements and gender reveals is a great idea and will make the holiday or event extra special and memorable. However, the creativity part and how you will present the announcement is up to you.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOtikzcXG44[/video_page_section]

4. Creative photo shoot with your whole family

You, your partner, your other kids, and your pet can participate in a fun family photo shoot to reveal the gender of your twins. Think of a theme and work around it.

You can use different props like balloons, ribbons, your ultrasound printouts, twin onesies with funny and coordinating statements, and many more.

Some theme ideas you may like:

  • Use balloons that have statements or a pink and blue one and let your kids or pets hold them. Take a photo, choose the best one or two, and make it as your official gender reveal announcement.
  • You can all line up from oldest to youngest then at the end, use props like two pairs of shoes or two onesies to announce you are having twins and to let people know the gender.

When it comes to creative photo shoots, the possibilities are endless. You can mail the photos or post them on your social media for all your family and friends to see.

Big Twin Gender Reveal Ideas

If you are up for a big gender reveal where all the most important people in your life are present, then a gender reveal party is a great idea. This is becoming more and more popular nowadays. Depending on the theme of your party, you can host it in your own backyard or an event’s place.

Most big gender reveals parties are planned without the parents knowing the gender. This is because the party is also a surprise for both parents and their families. You can host the party but ask your family and friends for assistance.

Party planning can also be a little stressful, and stress is the last thing you need especially when you are pregnant with twins.

5. Two balloons that you and your partner can pop. These balloons will have either a colored confetti or powder inside.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhGgLCCaZUM[/video_page_section]

6. Balloons in a box. You can also opt for plain pink or blue balloons that would come out of the box when you open it to reveal the genders of your twins.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y25JRx5rOD0[/video_page_section]

7. A cake you and your partner will slice to reveal the gender. You and your partner can select the cakes when it is time to reveal the gender of your twins. The color inside should indicate if you are having boys, girls, or both.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”false” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aeJmhqe9nU[/video_page_section]

8. A party popper for you and your partner. You may opt to pop one simultaneously or both at once.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”true” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFSSDxMyGZ4[/video_page_section]

9. Two smoke guns with either pink or blue smoke that you and your partner can fire at the time of the reveal. Gather everyone around in an open area like your backyard and fire the smoke guns at the time of the reveal.

10. Foam guns. If you do not mind the mess, foam guns are a step more fun than smoke guns. This could be fun for you and your partner, as well as entertaining for your guests to watch. Of course, you must not forget that you are pregnant and you must exercise care at all times.

[video_page_section type=”youtube” position=”default” image=”” btn=”light” heading=”” subheading=”” cta=”” video_width=”1080″ hide_related=”false” hide_logo=”false” hide_controls=”false” hide_title=”false” hide_fullscreen=”false”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV0bkkDsQMo[/video_page_section]

11. Two wrapped gifts with your choice of girl or boy stuff. Your friend or the on in-charge for setting up the reveal can put either pink or blue onesies, shoes, or anything really.

A gender reveal is a great idea to celebrate your pregnancy and having twins with your family and friends. These are just some suggestions you can use for your gender reveal. You can use one or a combination of these ideas if you like.

Do not forget to have fun while doing it. It is a great memory to look back on and to show your twins when they are grown up.

Of course, it is not mandatory that you have to have a gender reveal. You do not have to get stressed out over the little things like deciding whether or not to have a simple or big gender reveal, what concept to create, and all the party planning.

You should focus more on your health and the health of your twins over the stress of letting people in on the secret. The decision is entirely up to you and your partner.

 

 

When Do Twins Start Playing with Each Other?

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twin sisters happy together
So while genetics can play a role, it doesn’t play everything.

What is better than the feeling parents get the moment they find out they are having a child? It is when they find out they are having a twin pregnancy or multiples pregnancy!

The very moment they realize it, they will already form some hopes and dreams for their twins and look forward to how they are going to treat each other in the future.

If the twins are identical, will they grow up similarly not just in looks, but in personalities as well? If they are fraternal, how are they going to be individually different? Can they tell them apart? Will they share toys and learn together? Will the twins grow up like best friends? Will they have each other’s back in every difficult situation?

These are just normal questions parents ask themselves the moment it dawned on them that they will be raising two children at the same time. But when do twins really start playing with each other? Here are some interesting facts about how twins interact with each other.

Twins Become Aware of Each Other in the Utero

Since twins share one uterus, they kind of have to learn how to share a temporary residence and the ration of nutrients.

10 Interesting Facts About Twins

According to multiple studies that include 3D ultrasounds, twins start to reach out and touch each other in the womb starting at about 14 weeks. At about 18 weeks, they touch each other more often.

Thanks to technology, researchers can see clear images, distinct movements, and well-defined gestures in the womb, even if the mother cannot feel it yet.

Kicks and deliberate movements of the twins can be felt earlier than singletons because they share one uterus, probably starting at about 16 weeks.

Twins are Often in-sync with Each Other When They are Born

Twins do not have the same DNA and they have their individual fingerprints, but they are somehow in-sync with each other from the moment they were born. This is probably because they share a deep connection since they were conceived.

Parents have to keep them in-sync growing up to make it easier for the whole household to take turns in looking after them.

best cribs for twins

This starts at birth. Parents should begin setting a healthy routine for the twins not only for feeding but most importantly when putting them to sleep.

Imagine how exhausting it would be for parents if each twin has their own schedule for feeding and sleeping. The training will help them establish a schedule that they will take until they grow up.

Twins’ Interest in Each Other Starts as they Grow as Toddlers

Toddler years is an exciting time for parents. This is the time when babies are starting to become a little bit independent as they already have an established schedule.

They are starting to wonder about their environment, and be able to interact with people. For twins, parents would start to notice that their interest in each other starts to blossom.

It is when the real fun begins. Twins start to actually play with each other.

Parents would notice that when one crawls away, the other one would follow. Or if one is playing with a toy – for example, a baby walker – the other twin will form an interest in that particular toy as well. Sometimes, people would even think they have their own language because they seem to understand each other’s babbling noises.

This is a heartwarming moment for parents. It is entertaining to watch twins happily interact with each other. Although they were already social in the utero, toddler years is the time that they actually learn important social skills before they even attend kindergarten or play school.

When do Twins Start Playing With Each Other?

So if we are being literal, even though twins are aware of each other’s presence since their time spent in the utero, the actual time that they start to play with each other is during their toddler years.

They learn the art of sharing toys, negotiating, and other social skills. These facts lead experts to believe that twins have the social advantage or an edge over singletons.

twins playing together

The Social Advantage

Having an instant playmate, twins have continuous practice being social. They become more confident and more socially aware than singletons of the same age. Since twins learn how to share earlier than their single-born counterparts, they become more seasoned in the art of forming relationships.

Parents can easily encourage their twins to build more friendship and to express their feelings in the process through mingling with other kids and cooperative play. Other children could actually benefit from twins’ already learned social skills.

If you put twins in the playroom, you would notice that they somehow initiate playing and teach other kids some tricks and treats.

How to Cope with Twin Rivalry

Of course, like in most things, it is not always rainbows and butterflies. Siblings fight, and twins are not any different. Parents should learn how to cope when this happens. Sure twins play, kiss, hug and cuddle each other. But they also hit, bite, and fight with each other over everything at times.

Having a built-in buddy may sound great, but it can also be complicated at a time when there are disagreements and tensions. The fighting could even be more intense because as twins, most parents tend to make them share the same room, the same set of toys, and almost everything.

Coping is either a hit or miss at the beginning. It is a trial and error. Parents would soon learn how to calm one or both twins down when necessary. As every individual is different, every approach should also be different. What works for one family may not work for another.

Parents should always practice neutrality. Twins should not get a feeling that favoritism exists. Each twin’s feeling should be validated and acknowledged without the parents intervening too much.

There should be set boundaries and respect, and communication to both twins should be open. In short, parents should always be equal and fair.

Having a child is a blessing, but having twins is something really wonderful. It may not be fun all the time, but seeing each twin start to form a bond and play with each other is very rewarding and makes everything all worth it.

Twins Not Growing At Same Rate: Should You Be Worried?

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different size twins in utero


When a mother discovers that they are having twins, they realize that they have to take care of two people and monitor their development at the same time.

Most people think that twins will grow at the same rate, but the truth is that there is a slight difference in their weight even if they have the same gestation period.

However, when you see your twins not growing in utero at the same rate, you start to get worried. But should you be?

Why Are My Twins Not Growing at The Same Rate?

There are several reasons as to why your twins may not be growing at the same rate. When doing an ultrasound, your doctor will give you an overview of their current size and possible weight.

two newborn twins

If your doctor tells you that one is bigger than the other, you may wonder why it is happening and how it may affect either of your babies.

To give you an idea of what creates the difference in growth, here are some reasons:

  • If you have monoamniotic monochorionic twins, the babies may be vying for the nutrition that they are getting. It is not something you can control because it is a biological event. It is up to your babies to get as much nutrition as they need within one amniotic sac and from one placenta.
  • If you have diamniotic dichorionic twins, this means that they are taking their nutrients from separate placentas and are gestating in different amniotic sacs. Again, this is a biological factor that you cannot change. Your babies will get the nutrition they want and need, but the rate of their growth is still affected by the amount of nutrients they get from your body.
  • When you are having twins, their growth rate will inevitably slow down by the 30th week. It is not a cause for alarm because it is natural for twins to grow slower because they are getting their nutrition from one body.

Are You The Reason Why Your Babies Are Not Growing at the Same Rate?

Of course not! It is not your fault if your babies are not growing at the same rate. However, you can help improve their condition by improving your diet based on a prenatal nutritionist or your doctor’s advice.

If, however, you are not eating enough or are eating nonhealthy food, the growth of your twins may slow down earlier or faster. That is why it is important to always eat healthy food and the right amount to avoid underfeeding or overfeeding your twins in the womb.

You also have to factor in external circumstances such as complications in the womb or your body. For example, if you get sick, the three of your will compete for nutrients.

If you ingest something that stumps your babies’ growth, then you may have to work harder to get them back to a healthy size and weight.

It all boils down to how you take care of your body and what your doctor finds during every visit. This is why it is important to take all your vitamins, eat healthier, and always follow your doctor’s advice.

It never hurts to have a second or third opinion, especially if you are extremely worried about the growth gap between your twins.

Fraternal Twins Growing at Different Rates

Fraternal twins may grow at different rates for several reasons. If they are the same gender, there is little difference in how they metabolize their nutrients. If they have different sexes, there is a possibility that the male twin may be absorbing more nutrients than their sister.

identical twin babies

Many fraternal twins, whether they are mono-mono or di-di, can grow at different rates while in utero, especially if they share a placenta. It is much more likely that they have different growth rates because they are from two completely different egg cells, thus, giving them more biological autonomy than identical twins.

Identical Twins Growing at Different Rates

Because of the extreme similarity in their biological makeup, identical twins may react the same way to how your body is gestating. There may be little difference in their growth, but nature will always be a factor. Your twins may start to grow at different rates regardless of their status as identical twins.

The reason for this is biological feedback. If one twin feels that they are not getting enough nutrients, their body will start to take in more from your placenta. If the other baby does not react the same way, they may grow more slowly because their body did not react the way the other baby’s did.

When Should I Worry About The Growth Rate of My Twins?

The only time you should worry about your twins’ difference in growth rate is when your doctor says so. They are obligated to tell you about any complications that arise during your pregnancy, which means that they will never hide any problems from you no matter what the case.

If you are curious to know when doctors start to worry about difference in growth rates, here are some factors that go into their decision:

  • They noticed an abnormality in the amniotic sac, umbilical cord, or placenta.
  • The size gap between your babies is too significant to ignore. The decision depends on the doctor, but an example would be twins that have significant difference in percentile weight. Baby 1 might be in the median fetal weight percentile, while baby 2 might be less than the 10th percentile. If this is the case, the doctor will request for more tests such as higher frequency ultrasounds, blood tests, amniocentesis, etc.
  • The fetal heart rate of one baby is significantly lower than the other. When alarm bells ring, that’s when you know there is something wrong with one of the baby’s growth.

What Should You Do If There is a Problem With Your Twins’ Growth?

Always follow your doctor’s advice. If there is a problem, they will do their best to fix it. However, you have to do your part as well.

It may be traumatic to learn that one of your babies may be in danger, but worrying about it and stressing too much will only make things work. The best way for you to approach the problem is by preparing yourself for any possibilities and making sure that you and your doctor have a plan in place.

Conclusion

Remember, twins are not like singletons. They have to compete for their nutrition, but you can always fix that by eating as many healthy food as you can. Just make sure that your babies don’t become overweight in the womb as this will cause complications as well.

If you have any other questions about twins not growing at same rates, do not hesitate to ask.