Increasing your protein intake is critically important if you are pregnant with twins.

Why Increase Protein intake in your Twin Pregnancy?

• Increase your  chances of carrying to term
• Increase your babies’ birth weight

How much protein do you really need if you are expecting twins?

While recommendations for protein intake for singleton pregnancies are right around 80 grams per day, protein intake recommendations for twin pregnancy are much higher.  Upwards of 130 grams of protein per day is recommended for moms expecting twins, with some researchers recommending more than 170 grams of protein per day for your twin pregnancy.  Beware, out-dated information is still floating around with much lower twin pregnancy protein recommendations.  It is best to check with your doctor for the most current recommendations.  If your doctor recommends less, be sure to dig deeper to understand the recommendation.

Why so much?

Preterm and/or low birth weight babies are much more likely to have health problems at birth resulting in the need to spend time in the NICU (newborn intensive care unit).

Researchers have found that there is a direct correlation between protein intake and weight at birth.  Low protein intake typically results in low birth weight.  For singletons, each 10 gram increase in daily protein intake by mom correlates to 1/2 pound increase in baby’s birth weight.  

What birth weight is considered to be “low”?

According to the March of Dimes, babies born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces (2,500 grams) are considered to be low birth weight.  These babies are at increased risk for serious health problems as newborns, lasting disabilities and even death.

What are some good sources of protein?

• Lean meats such as Turkey, Chicken (skinned), Pork, and Lean Beef are a great source at an average 7 grams per ounce
• Nuts/Seeds including peanut butter at 4-5 grams per tablespoon; Sunflower Seeds 6 grams 1/4 cup; Pumpkin Seeds 8 grams 1/4 cup
• Milk Products milk 8 oz = 8 grams!, cheese 6-10 grams oz, yogurt 8-12 grams/serving, cottage cheese 1/2 cup=15 grams, powdered whey
• Fish 6 – 10 grams per oz — but don’t overdo tuna as it contains mercury
• Eggs 1 large = 6 grams
• Beans 7 – 10 grams per 1/2 cup / Soy 14 grams 1/2 cup / Tofu 1/2 cup = 20 grams

Any steps you can take to increase your protein intake during your twin pregnancy will pay off — in bigger babies. So go ahead and have another serving of milk or that extra piece of cheese — you’ll enjoy it, your babies will benefit, and so will you!

When having twins, you should plan to complete all your preparations before your 30^th week of your twin pregnancy. 

• Twin pregnancies experience a much higher rate of bed rest than singleton pregnancies.
• Twin pregnancies experience a higher rate of pre-term labor.
• If you manage to make it into or through your 3^rd trimester, you will very likely be so tired that you will not be able to accomplish much on your to-do list.

 Tasks you can (and should) complete before the 30^th week of pregnancy

• Nursery setup

The most important piece of equipment for your nursery is a crib. It is not necessary to get two cribs immediately, as you may wish to have your twins share a crib at first.  Twins often take comfort from sharing a crib.

• Stock the freezer with meals 

Whether you make meals ahead and freeze them, use a service where you prepare 30 days of meals in advance, buy pre-made warehouse meals, or schedule family and friends to bring meals — you will not regret being prepared in this way. When your twins arrive, you will be so relieved to have meals at the ready.

• Organize your help schedule

 When expecting twins, many will offer help. Our tendency is to say thank you, but then never to bring it up again. You must resist this tendency! Practice accepting offers of help. Think about what types of help you are willing to accept. When friends and family offer to help, be prepared to tell them specifically how they can help.  Try using a “care” calendar.  These online calendars allow you to list your needs and facilitate sign ups for help. Don’t be shy — you’ll be needing help.

• Get your equipment basics

 As we mentioned earlier, your most critical equipment need is your crib. Don’t go too overboard and purchase everything you’ll need to raise your twins into adulthood. Just focus on the needs to cover the first 3 months. You’ll have time later to purchase additional equipment and supplies for the next stage.  The second most important piece of equipment is your stroller. For your first stroller, we recommend a Snap ‘N Go, or convertable system that allows you to put your infant car seats into the stroller.  This will save you headaches when your twins are sleeping soundly and you don’t have to remove them from their car seats to put them into the stroller.

• Prepare birth announcements and thank-you notes

This is a great time review styles for birth announcements and thank-you notes. Pick out the layout and shop around for prices. Prepare as much of the information in advance as possible. You can even address envelopes so they will be ready to personalize and pop in the mail.

Completing your preparations before the 30th week will give you peace of mind as you move into the final weeks of your twin pregnancy. Enjoy this time as you prepare for your little ones.

Copyright 2011 – Kathryn Whiteley / TwinParenthood.com

TwinParenthood is pleased to turn over this space today to guest contributor Cori (of Cori’s Big Mouth) to bring us a nanny’s guide to finding the perfect twins (or more) nanny. Cori is currently a nanny to triplets, and a previous nanny to many sets of multiples including quadruplets & quintuplets.  We hope you will enjoy this valuable insight into finding the right twins nanny, from a great multiples nanny, Cori.

Picking the Right Twins Nanny for Your Family

One of the first things, that expectant parents think of – well after  that initial shock of finding out you’re expecting multiples has worn off – is how are we going to do this? 

Is mom going to work?  Stay home?  Can we do this alone?  Daycare?  Nanny?  There are so many options to pick from, but what’s right for your family?

Hi!  My name is Cori and I am a nanny who has personally known Kathryn for many years through her local twins group.  I was excited and honored when Kat asked me to write a guest-post for TwinParenthood on my experience as a nanny.  I have spent the last 11 years as a babysitter and/or nanny for many families of multiples, including quadruplets & quintuplets.  I’ve  spent the last 3.5 years with a family who has BBG triplets. 

What Type of Nanny is Right for You?

That’s the first thing you need to ask yourself.  Are you looking for a post-partum nanny to help when you bring home new babies?  Or are you planning on going back to work and will need full-time long term childcare for your children?  Or, maybe you just want help a few hours a day to get things done or take a nap?  Well, you’re in luck; you can find help for any of those types of childcare needs.

Mothers Helper: A mother’s helper is a great option if you just need a few hours a day a couple times a week.  If you want to just to get stuff done around the house or nap, a 12-year-old girl is the perfect person.  They really want to babysit but aren’t quite old enough to be left alone, plus they’re cheaper.  If you want to be able to leave the house then I recommend finding a high school student to come over a couple afternoons a week.

Post-Partum Nanny: Is hired to help you the first few weeks to months after your babies come home.  They support you in caring for your babies, give you tips, and of course give you rest.  They aren’t long term, though. They last a short time, and then move on to another family.

Nanny: Is a person who comes to your home and cares for your children.  They will follow your instructions, ways of doing things, etc.  Your children get to stay in their own environment.  Nannies tend to work on a 1-year contract, with a hope that she’ll be a great fit and will stay for many years.

When to find a Nanny?

Early In Your Twin Pregnancy

If you know early on in your pregnancy that you are going to need a nanny, I highly suggest you start researching and finding someone while you still have the time and energy.  If you find a nanny you love, it’s nice for them to get to be a part of the remainder of your pregnancy.  They get to know you, your spouse, other kids, etc.  Plus, they can help you prepare for the pending arrival of your little ones.  If your babies are born premature, they will probably spend time in the NICU – your nanny can also spend time with your babies in the NICU, getting to know them and their schedules, working with the nurses to learn to care for preemies along with you.  Makes a much smoother transition when the babies come home and you go back to work.

I had this wonderful opportunity in this job I’m in now.  I was hired when the mom was about 20 weeks along.  I helped them get things ready for the triplets, gave tips and advice, and was right there with her, holding our breath that she would make it to the high risk pregnancy milestones.  I then got to spend a lot of time with the babies while they were in the NICU, which was a really special experience.

After Delivery of your Twins

If you’ve already had your babies, or are going back to work when your kids are older, don’t panic there’s still hope for you.  By now, you have an idea of what type of care your kids need and are in search to find the right person to fit the mold.

Where to Find Your Multiples Nanny?

Anybody (and I mean anybody) can be a nanny.  Don’t get me wrong, there are great nannies out there, but keep in mind, it takes a special (and possibly crazy) nanny to take on a family with multiples.  As you know multiples take a lot of work and a lot of multitasking.  Many nannies aren’t comfortable and/or capable of handling the stress and extra work that comes with more than one baby.  That’s fine, it doesn’t mean they’re not good nannies, they just aren’t the right nanny for you.

The best way to find a great nanny is through your local twins group, friends and family.  Talk to other parents, get names and information.  Once a great nanny is found, she is likely to be known by many families and passed from family to family.  Word of mouth is the best way to find the right nanny for you.

How Do You Know this Nanny is Right?

Before Delivery

If you haven’t had your babies yet, and think you’ve found the right nanny get to know her.  Befriend her.  I’m not just talking about an interview; I’m talking getting to know her as a person.  Invite her over for dinner.  My jobs that I have had a genuine friendship with my employers have been the best and longest lasting.  Think of your nanny has an extension of your family.  You’re going to be spending a lot of time with her, so you really need to like her as a person, and not just as a childcare provider.  You’ll know quickly if she’s the right choice for you.

After Delivery

It’s okay to have a trial period.  Hire the nanny on a short term basis, for a week or two.  That will give you time get to know each other and see how she interacts with your children and if she meets the expectations you have.  You’ll know quickly, if she’s the right nanny.  If the trial period passes and you’re happy, hire her for a long term position.  If the fit wasn’t quite right, that’s okay; you can try again and aren’t committed to one person.  Don’t settle for a certain nanny; try until you find the right one.

So there you have it – A Nanny’s Guide to find the perfect twin nanny.  I think the most important thing to remember is don’t settle for a certain nanny, the perfect one is out there.  Good luck in your search.

Be sure to check out Cori’s blog at Cori’s Big Mouth, or connect with her on Twitter @cori_shelley.

All pregnant women should be aware of the dangers of Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).  TTTS is a complication of disproportionate blood supply to twin fetuses during pregnancy.  It is critical that all women have an early ultrasound to identify if they are having multiples.

World TTTS Awareness Day is an international mobilization effort created by The Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation to increase awareness of the #1 problem facing multiples. It is crucial for women to get an ultrasound in the first trimester to identify multiples and then to determine whether there is one placenta or two. Women must learn the warning signs of TTTS, the 15 questions to ask at each ultrasound, and the available treatment options. World TTTS Awareness Day is about empowering parents and is filled with messages of Hope, Help and Encouragement. Your babies can make it and be healthy. Don’t ever give up. Please, Get Educated, Get Ultrasounds, Ask Questions, Get Treatment and Get Involved! This day is also a remembrance day for all the babies who have had TTTS. Candles will be lit tonight across the world during the vigil and messages may also be left for your babies through lighting online candles.  Please visit their websites to learn more about TTTS.

What is Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome?

• Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a disease of the placenta (or afterbirth) that affects identical twin pregnancies.
• TTTS affects identical twins (or higher multiple gestations), who share a common monochorionic placenta.
• The shared placenta contains abnormal blood vessels, which connect the umbilical cords and circulations of the twins.
• The common placenta may also be shared unequally by the twins, and one twin may have a share too small to provide the necessary nutrients to grow normally or even survive.
• The events in pregnancy that lead to TTTS – the timing of the twinning event, the number and type of connecting vessels, and the way the placenta is shared by the twins are all random events that have no primary prevention, is not hereditary or genetic, nor is it caused by anything the parents did or did not do. TTTS can happen to anyone.

If you are pregnant, what should you do?

Get Ultrasounds

If you are pregnant, it is critical that you get an ultrasound within the first 3 months.  With this ultrasound, you can determine if you are having twins, triplets, or even higher order multiples.  As early as 7 weeks of pregnancy, it can be determined if you are having multiples.  If the placenta is monochorionic, or single, your pregnancy is at risk for TTTS.

Ask Questions

Once you have identified that you are having twins or higher order multiples, it is imortant that you ask questions at each ultrasound.  For multiples, ultrasounds should be performed more frequently than in singleton and lower risk pregnancies.  Listed below are the TTTS Foundation’s 15 Most Important Questions to ask at each ultrasound.

Confirm at initial ultrasounds (preferably by 10-16 weeks)

1. Is the placenta monochorionic?
2. Are the babies the same gender?
3. Can you see the dividing membrane?
4. Is the placenta implanted on the anterior or posterior surface of the womb?
5. Do the twins’ umbilical cords each have the normal 3 blood vessels, or does one of them have 2 vessels?
6. Are the umbilical cords fully attached to the placenta?

Questions to ask at weekly ultrasounds (16 weeks to delivery)

1. What is the largest vertical pocket of fluid for each baby?
2. Can you see the bladder of the donor baby?
3. What are the weights of the babies in grams? (every 2-3 weeks)
4. Are the dopplers normal for both babies?
5. Is the heart of the recipient baby enlarged or thickened?
6. Does the recipient baby have hydrops?
7. What is the measurement of your cervix, is it long and closed or thinning or dilated?
8. Is the smaller baby growing at the same rate?
9. What is the fundal height?

Read the explanations for these questions at the TTTS Foundation’s website.

PLEASE, get an early ultrasound to determine if you are carrying multiples.  If you are pregnant with twins or higher order multiples, PLEASE ask the questions provided by the TTTS Foundation.  It could save your babies’ lives.  If you are diagnosed with TTTS, or would like more information, please contact the TTTS Foundation for help, information, and support.

Attempting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a safe and appropriate choice for most women — including those who are carrying twins, according to guidelines released this week by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).  This is great news for women expecting twins.  Previously, VBAC was not recommended for women carrying twins although there were no conclusive studies to suggest that twins posed a higher risk. 

In fact, VBAC was often not recommended for many women, and the rate of C-sections in the United States had risen significantly over the past four decades.  In the 1970′s, the C-section rate was about 5%, but by 2007, it was up at a whopping 31%.  One reason for the increased rate of C-sections was due to insurers, doctors, and hospitals opting for a repeat C-section rather than attempting a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC).

TOLAC and VBAC do present some added risk.  If uterine rupture occurs (between 0.5% and 0.9% of the time), it is an emergency situation that can cause serious harm to a mother and babies.  For this reason, TOLAC and VBAC should only be undertaken in a hospital where an emergency C-section can be performed in the event of complications.

Patients and doctors will need to work together on a case by case basis to determine if TOLAC and VBAC are appropriate.  New moms having twins should do their research and come prepared for a discussion with their OB/GYN about the possibility for VBAC with twins if that is their desire.  Patients who encounter doctors that won’t even consider VBAC for a twin pregnancy should consider moving to another doctor.  While there may be very valid reasons why a VBAC is not appropriate for your particular twin pregnancy, you should expect your doctor to cover those reasons with you in detail rather than rejecting the option out of hand.

These new guidelines will provide women expecting twins with more options than were readily available previously.  And when you’re having twins — your options are often limited and out of your control.  So bringing back options is always a good thing.  And reducing the number of “automatic” C-sections is a good thing.  Hopefully these guidelines will help to reduce the overall number of C-sections being performed in the United States.

Source:  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Ob-Gyns Issue Less Restrictive VBAC Guidelines“, July 21, 2010.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Having twins and multiples means more of everything — including morning sickness. The majority of all pregnancies experience nausea to some degree, and that increases with each additional baby in the mix.  The severity of the nausea is also increased with each additional baby.

Pregnancy nausea is usually attributed to the increased hormones during pregnancy. Many of these hormones are produced by the placenta. So, when there is more than one placenta (as in many twin pregnancies), more of these pregnancy hormones are produced — causing increased nausea.

“Morning Sickness” can occur at any time of day, but is often associated with the morning because it can be more strongly felt with an empty stomach. In addition, a twin pregnancy can put more pressure on the tummy — increasing nausea.

One little trick to help with this is to keep crackers or a banana at your bedside. When you get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom (as pregnant twin mamas often must do), eat a little bit. It is healthy for you and your babies — and will help reduce the morning nausea.

Increased nausea is one of many signs that you might be having twins.

Do:

• Eat small meals often
• Take a nap and get plenty of rest
• Learn your particular triggers and avoid those foods and smells that increase your nausea
• Dress in layers so you can peel off if you get too hot (feeling too warm increases nausea)
• Drink lemonade, eat watermelon, or something with ginger — as these help reduce nausea
• Exercise (but talk to your doctor about the amount and type that would be appropriate for your twin pregnancy)
• Eat salty potato chips
• Consult with your doctor — keep your doctor informed of your level of nausea (too much naseua can indicate a problem)
• Eat healthy with lots of protein

Don’t:

• Do not drink a large amount of fluids with meals
• Do not lie down after eating
• Do not skip meals
• Do not cook or eat spicy food

While morning sickness in a twin pregnancy can be more severe and can last longer into the pregnancy, it is survivable — as is just about everything twin related.  Take it one day at a time, and your little sweethearts will be here before you know it.

Did you or do you have morning sickness with your twin pregnancy? Any tips for coping?

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

One fun aspect of parenting twins is choosing twin baby names. Some parents agonize over the decision — while some have no trouble at all. There are several philosophies to choosing twin baby names (or, as we we like to call them “twinfants” names). But, you need not worry, no matter your philosophy, you’ll eventually settle on something that will be perfect for your little sweethearts.

How to Choose Baby Names for Twins

1. Family Names.  Some parents of multiples will use the opportunity to honor those special to the family (family members, ancestors, friends).  This is a great chance to do that as there are multiple children, and thus multiple names  – so that you do not have to choose which family member to honor first. 
2. Same Initials.  Another option is to name the babies so that all the names in the twins, triplets, or higher order multiples ”set” begin with the same letter.  Some examples:  Aiden & Addison, Brandon & Bryon, and Jacob & Joshua.  Thinking ahead, one pitfall to naming a set of multiples with the same initials is for labeling possessions such as clothing, sippy cups, etc. If they all have the same initials — you’ll have to do a bit more writing.  But, this is a minor inconvenience and may not deter you if you like the idea or the sound of the names together.
3. Birth Order.  Typically hospitals will assign a letter to your babies as they are born (A, B, C, etc.).  Multiples parents have been known to stick with the letter assigned to each.  Examples: A-Abigail, B-Brenden, C-Caleb, etc.
4. Sound Alike or Rhyming.  Many sets of twins are named based on similar sounding names.  Some popular examples: Jayden & Jordan, Ethan & Evan, and Taylor & Tyler, or rhyming names Zoe & Chloe.   Parents need to be aware, though, of a danger with rhyming names. Outside of the immediate family, it can already be difficult to distinguish between identical twins. Having rhyming names can add to the difficulty and be frustrating to teachers and other significant players in your twins lives.
5. Meaningful Names.  Twins are often named to reflect family values or are symbolic in some way to the family.  Examples: Faith & Hope, Jacob & Joseph, Austin & Denver.  Or, maybe you’ll want to choose names that have a similar or complimentary meaning in another ancient language.  Examples: Duke & Dean (which both mean “leader” in French).
6. Complimentary or Harmonious.  Sometimes we just like the way the names sound together. It is appealing the way the twins’ names roll off your tongue. For instance: Madison & Morgan, Olivia & Sophia, Ava & Emma.
7. Same Complexity.  Twin names often sound better together when they have the same number of syllables.  For example, Jessica & Samantha, and Tom & Jo.
8. Stand Alone. Probably the easiest method of all is to simply choose names that you like, and don’t worry about how they sound together. Some would even argue that this is the “best” way to do it because it promotes individuality.

Many resources can help with choosing names for your twins. Tons of books of baby names have been written over the years, and many baby related website have lists and pages of baby names.  One such resource that I think is especially helpful is the Social Security Administration’s list of Popular Baby Names and Popular Names of Twins.  These lists are updated annually, showing the most popular names for the prior year.

Try on names for a while. Write them out. Then, ask friends and family what they think.  But, if you’re like me, maybe you want to keep the names a secret among your friends and family.  If so, another great option is to ask for advice from online twins communities and/or twins support groups. Many great communities exist and typically, your friends and family are not members.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that no matter what names you choose for your twins, triplets, or higher order multiples, there will always be those that think you should have chosen something else. Most people will be supportive, but there will be those that will be insistent in presenting their “perfect” names for your little ones.  Take it all in, mull it over, and above all, just have fun finding your perfect names.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Expecting Twins?

Learning that you are expecting twins is both exciting, and a little frightening. Most parents expecting twins really have no idea what to expect. From the pregnancy onward, you’re in for some big changes.

So, here is the “critical, need-to-know information” about your twin pregnancy:

FACT 1:

Because twin pregnancies are classified as “high risk”, you will receive more ultrasounds and tests than an average singleton pregnancy to ensure the babies (and mom) are staying healthy.

• higher rate of miscarriage
• higher rate of maternal anemia
• higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage (bleeding) after delivery
• higher risk of developing gestational diabetes
• higher risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and sometimes swelling in feet, legs, and hands)
• higher risk of preterm labor and delivery

Advice:

1. Seek out an Obstetrician that specializes in high risk pregnancies, or see a perinatologist.
2. Visit your Obstetrician early in your pregnancy, be diligent about keeping all dr visits.

FACT 2:

Your twin pregnancy may leave you with more of the discomforts associated with pregnancy.

• – morning sickness may be stronger in the 1st trimester
• – back aches, heartburn, and sleepless nights might be worse and begin earlier than in singleton pregnancies
• – more spotting can occur
• – Moms pregnant with twins should expect to gain between 35 – 50 pounds

Advice:

1. Get regular exercise, but don’t overdo it — especially later in the pregnancy.
2. Do not underestimate the need for extra rest and sleep.
3. Get a body pillow to use between your knees for more support.
4. Be sure to eat enough to nourish the babies — there will be time to take off the weight later.
5. A small amount of spotting early in the pregnancy without cramping can be normal, but you should still inform your doctor. If spotting with cramping or heavier bleeding or clots happens — seek immediate medical advice.

FACT 3:

Your pregnancy will require “more” of your body’s resources.

• And, you’ll need to eat more, too. You’ll need to eat an additional 500 – 1000 calories per day.  And protein is critical, you’ll need an additional 35-50 grams beginning around week 20. In total, you’ll need about 150 – 170 grams.
• You definitely will need a good prenatal vitamin with iron. Some vitamins/minerals/supplements will require a higher dosage — including folic acid. Talk to your doctor about the proper vitamins and dosage for you.
• The babies will draw calcium out of your bones & teeth if you are not taking enough in to support the twin pregnancy.

Advice:

1. Be sure to ask your doctor about the need for vitamins and supplements.
2. Make a note on your daily calendar when you have taken your vitamins, so that you will not forget.
3. Drink more milk, and eat yogurt, peanut butter, and fish. These provide more protein, and the milk & yogurt add much needed calcium.  Do be careful, though, about the types of seafood you eat, as you’ll want to avoid those species that have been found to be high in mercury. Learn more about the FDA and EPA’s recommendations for pregnant women: http://www.epa.gov/fishadvisories/advice/
4. Eat small meals, but much more often. You might find that you are not hungry — either due to morning sickness, heartburn, or just feeling full because of the babies pressing on your stomach. But, getting enough calories to support the babies is crucial. Eating protein rich foods is helpful.

FACT 4:

Chances are greater than not that you will be put on bed rest at some time during your pregnancy. And, labor/delivery are more likely to come early.

• Most moms of twins go into labor at 36 to 37 weeks (40 is the norm for singletons).
• Bed rest comes in various degrees. It can range from a modified bed rest (where the doctor simply instructs you to get off your feet whenever possible), to strict at home bed rest where you can only get up to use the toilet, to hospital bed rest.

Advice:

1. Have all your baby preparations completed no later than the 30th week of pregnancy (nursery set up, etc.). Even if you are not placed on bed rest, you will likely be too tired to complete preparations much later than 30 weeks.
2. Discuss with your doctor his/her thoughts about working during your pregnancy and if or when you should stop.
3. Drink a lot of water. Then drink some more.  More water is needed to support the increase in volume of blood. Dehydration is one cause of preterm labor.
4. For tips on how to survive bed rest, read TwinParenthood.com’s article, “Surviving Bed Rest in your Twin Pregnancy.”

FACT 5:

You are more likely to have a C-section.

• There is a higher rate of babies in the breech position.
• There is more incidence of “failure to progress” during labor, as the uterus muscles are often too stretched out to muster a coordinated effort.

Advice:

Think about your wishes for your birth plan before you are admitted to the hospital, but plan to be flexible. Don’t go into it saying, “I’ll be so upset if I have to have a C-section.”

FACT 6:

People (even strangers) are more likely to ask you personal, probing questions about your pregnancy. People are just very interested in multiples.

Advice:

Join a Twins or Multiples Support Group or “Club”. No one can relate to a mom pregnant with twins better than a mom who has “been there, done that”.   Also, you’ll be needing to get a lot of “stuff”, but most of it doesn’t need to be new. These groups often have huge sales where you can stock up.  Still unsure? Check out TwinParenthood.com’s article, “Top Ten Reasons to Join a Twins / Multiples Support Group or Club

Try to keep in mind that people are just interested in multiples, decide how much you want to reveal, and always answer with a smile. To see the humorous side of this, read our article, “Out and About with Twins — when does the carnival end?“.

A twins or higher order multiples pregnancy can be a challenge.  But, by seeking advice early, and following the doctor’s instructions, you can ensure the healthiest outcome possible. There is much you can do to prepare for the coming changes in your life. Research at TwinParenthood.com is a great start.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

What have I missed? I’d love to hear more facts and advice about twin pregnancies from all you twin moms & dads. Please leave a comment.

Expecting Twins? Have Questions?

Today, TwinParenthood.com is very excited to announce a new service available to new parents of twins and those expecting twins.  Starting today, parents expecting twins, or those with twin infants (or as we like to call them, “twinfants”), can submit up to five questions to TwinParenthood.com, and receive a personalized answer.  This new service is free for a limited time.

Your questions can be about anything twin related. 

• Equipment to buy
• Nursery set up
• Bringing twins home
• Sibling Issues
• Pregnancy Questions
• Managing the Nights (or the days!)
• You name it

To submit your questions, please visit our Expecting Twins page.  Hope to hear from you soon!

Bed rest in a multiples pregnancy is very common. Don’t be alarmed.

When you are on bed rest, it is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions. You’ll want to do everything possible to keep those babies in utero as long as possible.

In most cases, your doctor will want you to stop many “normal, everyday” activities.  Some things you’ll want to ask about:

• Picking up older children
• Driving
• Walking
• Stairs
• Shower (or Bath)
• Cooking
• Sitting upright
• Light Chores
• Sexual Intercourse
• Exercise

Make “Bed Rest Buddies”

After gaining an understanding from your doctor about what you can or should not do, you’ll want to connect with other multiples moms also on bed rest. There are some great website communities for women on bed rest. A fantastic resource is sidelines.org. Connecting with others on bed rest can be an emotional lifesaver. Also, often times these bed rest buddies develop into lasting friendships as you and your pals raise your multiples.

Prepare for Bed rest

Set up a bed rest station in your main living area.  Some things you’ll want within arms reach:

• laptop with internet connection
• snacks
• water and other drinks
• pencil / paper
• books and magazines
• TV remotes

What else can you do? 

• Reconnect with friends
• Get Ready for Babies (Pick names, update your financial records – wills, etc.)
• Read Parenting Books
• Craft Projects
• Work (discuss with your employer options for working from home using your laptop or a telephone)

Being on bed rest can be challenging, but it can also be fun. Like many things in life — it is what you make of it. So take a sunny approach and see what you can get accomplished.

Copyright 2009 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com