Hidden Signs and Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy
Expecting a baby is always a thrill, but the excitement doubles when you discover you’re carrying twins. While twin pregnancy symptoms often mirror those of a single baby pregnancy, they tend to be more intense. If you’re pregnant and wondering if you might be expecting twins, here’s a comprehensive guide to the early and sometimes hidden symptoms of a twin pregnancy.
These are Signs and Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy
Heightened Sense of Smell
A heightened sense of smell, or hyperosmia, is common in pregnancy due to increased estrogen levels. In a twin pregnancy, the elevated levels of this hormone can make this symptom more pronounced.
Unusual Uterus Size
Twins take up more space and may be positioned differently in the uterus. Fraternal twins develop from two separate eggs, each fertilized by a different sperm, and implant separately in the uterus, each with its own placenta and amniotic sac. Identical twins, however, can form in three different ways:
- Separate Placentas: About one-third of identical twins split soon after fertilization, developing completely separate placentas like fraternal twins.
- Shared Placenta: Most identical twins split after attaching to the uterine wall, sharing a single placenta (monochorionic twins).
- Shared Amnion: In rare cases, identical twins split later, sharing both an inner sac (the amnion) and a placenta, known as monoamniotic twins or MoMo twins.
Elevated Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that while blood pressure changes in twin pregnancies are similar to those in singleton pregnancies, the overall blood pressure levels tend to be higher in twin pregnancies.
Also read: Are There Any Differences Between Single And Twin Pregnancy Symptoms?
Presence of Gestational Diabetes
Due to higher levels of pregnancy hormones, gestational diabetes is slightly more common in twin pregnancies. Research indicates that the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes increases by about 9% in twin pregnancies.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy
Increased Fatigue and Exhaustion
Extreme fatigue is one of the most commonly reported symptoms in twin pregnancies. If you feel unusually sleepy, lethargic, or exhausted, even after a good rest, it might be a sign of a twin pregnancy.
Higher Levels of Nausea and Vomiting
Due to the higher levels of pregnancy hormones in a twin pregnancy, nausea and vomiting can be more severe and may last beyond the typical first trimester. However, this is not a definitive sign, as severe morning sickness can also indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition some pregnant women face even with a single baby.
Quicker Weight Gain
While weight gain is influenced by factors such as height, pre-pregnancy weight, diet, and body type, women carrying twins often start showing earlier and may gain weight more quickly.
Elevated Hormone Levels
Women carrying twins generally have higher levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) than those with a singleton pregnancy. However, hCG levels can vary widely from woman to woman and even between different pregnancies in the same woman. Only an ultrasound can confirm a twin pregnancy definitively.
Factors Influencing the Chances of Conceiving Twins
Age
Women in their late 30s and 40s are more likely to conceive twins.
Height
Taller women have a higher chance of having twins. Studies suggest that an insulin-like growth factor associated with height may increase the likelihood of conceiving twins.
Weight
Women with a body mass index (BMI) above 30 also have a higher chance of conceiving twins naturally.
Support for Expecting Twins
Expecting twins and need support? The iMumz Womb Care Program offers daily yoga, lifestyle tips, and expert-led classes to make your pregnancy journey smoother. With a panel of coaches by your side, this program ensures a healthier and more comfortable experience during your twin pregnancy.
Also read: Signs You’re Having Twins Or Multiples
