The common ailments suffered during pregnancy may be far more prominent with a multiple pregnancy, and you may find that you gain more weight, and that you begin to 'show' far sooner than one normally would. Your size at 20 weeks in a singleton pregnancy, will be very similar to that of 16 weeks in a multiple pregnancy. This is not only due to carrying two babies, but also an extra placenta, additional amniotic fluid as well as an overall increase in bodily fluids. However, the joy of looking forward to twins and feeling somewhat extra-special often compensates for the discomforts.

Twins are rarely carried full-term and on average, make their arrival between 36-37 weeks, instead of the usual 40-42 week period. Antenatal care is of utmost importance, and you may find that you are asked to attend far more appointments than would a mother carrying only one baby. Twin births are often very unpredictable, and it is suggested that you make your hospital booking as soon as possible

Maternity Clothing

Being pregnant with twins may mean that you will be wearing maternity clothes for a much longer period, having to resort to them earlier, and maybe even wearing them for awhile after the birth, as it is not likely that your figure will return to normal as quickly as it would with a single pregnancy. Choose clothes that are comfortable, with plenty of room for expansion. A good supportive bra is also a necessity, and you may like to ask for the assistance of a sales person to fit it for you. If you are planning to breastfeed, it may be a wiser and cheaper option to buy a maternity/feeding bra whilst you are still pregnant.

Babies' Equipment

Shopping for twins can be quite an expensive affair, as you are going to need two of everything and most new mothers of twins will insist that they be dressed identically. Buying in bulk, can be a great money saver, provided you have the storage space. Second-hand equipment, such as twin-prams, cots and high-chairs, can all be restored to your liking, and it may be a good idea to invest in these, especially considering the rate at which babies grow.

Fatherly feelings

Many pregnant women are inclined to be overwhelmed with all the changes happening to their bodies and often give little thought to the emotions of their partners. By discussing your fears and discomforts with him, you may begin to realise that he is feeling that little bit left out, and may even have a few uncertainties himself. To gain his full support, it is essential that the doors to communication be left open, and through this you may just be able to explain why it is that you need the extra help around the house and additional love and care. Give him the chance to accompany you to all your antenatal visits and scans, so that he too can feel a part of this wonderful miracle, that your love has brought into existence.

Helping you cope

Carrying twins is likely to sap all of the energy, you thought you once had, so it is very important to care for yourself properly in an attempt to help your body cope with the additional workload. Rest is a very important factor for all expectant moms, but even more so in those who are expecting more than one baby. This is not only suggested in an attempt to be well rested when your babies arrive, but also to prevent you from being at risk to the fairly common serious problems that can arise in multiple pregnancies; these being:
 

• Premature birth
• Hampered development of the babies
• Developing high blood pressure

Just as rest is important, so is exercise. Though it is suggested that you refrain from over-exerting yourself, and rather opt for gentle exercises, such as simple water aerobics.
Good nutrition is also very important for the optimum growth and well-being of you and your unborn babies, this doesn't go to state that you should gorge on anything just because now it seems you have double the excuse. Rather follow a healthy eating pattern, that incorporates frequent healthy snacking, instead of three meals a day, which is likely to leave you feeling more bloated than anything else.

Problems associated with multiple births can fortunately be detected at a very early stage, therefore, not only in an attempt to identify any underlying hassles, but also for the correct guidance and monitoring, it is essential that you follow-up all your antenatal visits.

Complications
The normal discomforts and complaints of pregnancy, can sometimes become a serious matter in twin pregnancies, with many needing hospital treatment. The following list describes some of the more common complaints and the treatment thereof:

• Anaemia

Iron and folic acid
• Bleeding
  Bleeding before the 28th week, may indicate a threatened miscarriage, which will possibly be treated with bed-rest. After the 28th week, could possibly indicate problems with the placenta, and will be treated with fetal monitoring and bed-rest. If fetal distress is diagnosed, induction may become a necessity.
• Diabetes
  Diabetes is more common in those women with a family history of the complaint, but it can however start in pregnancy. Your blood sugar levels will be tested frequently, and insulin may be prescribed.
• Fluid retention
  Plenty of rest. Doctor may prescribe a diuretic to remove excess fluid.
• Placenta insufficiency
  Close observation, with a probable induction or caesarean section, depending on the severity.
• Pre-eclampsia
  Rest is essential, and drugs may be prescribed to reduce the high blood pressure. If the problem is severe, it may indicate induction.
• Ruptured membranes
  Sufficient rest to prevent further leakage, if it begins in the middle stages of pregnancy. If labour hasn't started by about the 36th week, an induction may be a necessary option.
• Severe vomiting
  May require hospital treatment, where you will be given intravenous fluids, and possibly a drug to relax the stomach.
• Slow growth of the babies
  Your doctor will carefully monitor their progress through ultrasound scans, and you will be advised to rest as much as possible.

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