Twins and Multiples
The joy of finding out you are pregnant may soon turn to mixed emotions of elation and concern when you find out you are expecting twins, triplets or other multiples. Mothers expecting multiples may wonder how they will ever manage multiple feedings, burpings, diaper changes and baths, as well as increased laundry, never having quite enough space for multiple cribs and the abundance of required baby gear. But, rest assured that more and more women are managing birthing and raising multiples every day and with proper planning, preparation and support, bringing home your new babies and establishing a workable routine is entirely possible.
The chance of having twins or multiples is increasing and can be influenced by a number of factors. Your chances of having twins or multiples increases with each successive pregnancy and is also increased if you are overweight, have a history of multiples in your family, are using in vitro fertilization (IVF), and as you age. Women who are expecting often find out that they are pregnant with twins or multiples during routine ultrasound examinations during the first trimester, which is very helpful, since the sooner you start planning and preparing for bringing multiple babies home, the better.
The first step in preparing for twins or multiples is to ensure proper nutrition during your pregnancy, which differs depending on the number of babies you are carrying. For example, while all pregnant women will be advised to take a prenatal vitamin, if you are carrying twins or multiples your doctor will likely prescribe additional vitamins, such as increased levels of iron and folic acid. Preparing for a positive birthing experience is also important, as the chances of needing a cesarean section (c-section) significantly increase for mothers carrying twins and multiples; therefore, although you may want to try for a vaginal birth, including this option in your birthing plan will assist you in being prepared if a c-section is needed.
During your pregnancy, it is important that you use this time to organize your babies? homecoming, stock up on baby items and establish your support network. If your budget allows, you may want to consider interviewing and hiring a mother?s helper prior to giving birth, so that he or she will be ready to step in and assist you as soon as the babies arrive home. Joining a support group for parents of multiples is also a great idea. Aside from the plethora of life-saving advice and tips group members will have to offer, they may also be able to provide recommendations for a mother?s helper. You will also want to purchase the necessary number of car seats and make sure that they are properly installed in your car well before your due date. Twins and multiples often come early, so having your car seats and other equipment purchased and installed is an important part of preparing for their arrival.
Since you will hopefully be receiving plenty of help from family members and friends, you may want to consider implementing a color coding system that will assist your helpers in telling the babies apart and will help to ensure that each baby is cared for properly. For example, if you dress baby A in red, baby B in blue and baby C in green, and then color code bottles, pacifiers and medication bottles with their assigned colors, this will help everyone keep track of who has been fed or changed, and ensures that each baby receives the correct medication.
While bringing home multiples may seem like an overwhelming task, you and your partner will find that this life-changing experience can be successfully accomplished with planning and preparation, and a willingness to accept help from those who offer.
