Can You Tell Straight Away if You’re Having Twins?
Lots of moms-to-be speculate about whether they’ll be able to tell early on if they have more than one baby – but the only surefire way to find out is by having an ultrasound scan. This imaging procedure gives healthcare providers a clear view of your uterus so they can see whether two embryos are developing. Still, some clues may suggest twins before that first ultrasound takes place.
Signs That You Might Be Having Twins
Pregnancy symptoms are different for every woman, but some signs may point to twins rather than one baby – and they can vary widely.
Feeling Worse Than Usual?
Most pregnant women experience some degree of morning sickness, but if you are sick often and more than normal, this could indicate twins. Levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG are higher if you have twins, which can make you feel even sicker. So severe nausea could mean two babies rather than one – but there’s a long way to go before you’ll know for sure!
Breasts That Are Swollen And Painful
Sore breasts are another common pregnancy symptom, but if yours are so sore that you need to cover them up and they are bigger than usual, this too could indicate a twin pregnancy.
You Are Exceedingly Fatigued
Feeling worn out is a typical pregnancy woe, but carrying twins takes tiredness to another level. With two babies to nourish, your body works double-time — and that can leave you even more exhausted than you’d be with just one. If extra naps or simply making it through the day are challenges, twins might be to blame.
You’re Growing Faster Than Expected
A rapidly expanding belly could signal twins if yours seems larger than anticipated for the date. Many women pregnant with twins show sooner or have a bigger bump — or both — because they have more babies and need additional amniotic fluid. So if you’re outgrowing clothes faster than you thought or feeling concerned, bring it up with your healthcare provider.
You’re Always Hungry
Another possible indicator of twin pregnancy is extreme hunger: your body needs more calories (and nutrients) to sustain two babies instead of one, so it’s natural if you’re eating for… four?
There’s a History of Twins in Your Family
If twins run in your family, there may be a genetic factor at play in your double-baby news. Though having twins in your family doesn’t guarantee you’ll have twins, too, it raises the possibility — especially if it’s on the mom’s side.
Only Your Scan Can Tell You for Sure
Although early indicators may suggest a twin pregnancy, the only way to be certain is by having an ultrasound scan. This scan will show if there are two embryos present. If you have any of these symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider to arrange for an early ultrasound for confirmation.
So, It’s Twins!
If your ultrasound verifies you are pregnant with twins, then congratulations are in order! This development brings both its own happiness and its own difficulties. Be prepared to welcome two babies at once: you’ll need to plan for them in pairs, acquire double the equipment you would for one baby, and be ready to give twice as many cuddles.
How Many Nappies?!
When you have twins, one of the initial things you need to think about is how many diapers you’ll require. Twin babies can each use between 10 and 12 diapers every day on average. That means you might go through up to 24 diapers daily during the early weeks — enough to fill a large diaper bag.
Conclusion
There’s so much going on when you’re pregnant – especially with twins! An ultrasound is the only way to know for sure but some signs might give you a clue. If you’re feeling very sick all day, have sore lumps in your boobs, can’t stop yawning, wear out three steps into the school run, grow out of your trousers before your bump even shows – or all five – then maybe. It could just mean more than one baby if it runs in the family too.
Basically: these signs might mean you’re having twins but only an ultrasound can say for certain. If you think there might be two (or more) talk to your doctor or midwife about how you feel. Get more wonderful and helpful tips with Sleepy Nanny to enjoy this motherhood journey of yours. You’ve got an exciting time ahead!