When you first discover that you're expecting multiples, the very first feeling is shock. After that shock slowly fades away, you find that you are left with more questions than answers. Even if you've had children before you, soon realize that nothing is the same. Here are a couple of things that you can expect through out your twin pregnancy.
You will have to start answering annoying questions from people that don't even know your last name. Complete strangers will ask you bold, yet funny questions. Be prepared. Despite your first instinct to be annoyed, or shout "how rude," make your answers light and funny. Trust me, it's better that way. The less details the better!
You will be poked and pried like never before. The doctor will measure and compare your babies constantly. They will have you on pins and needles every time you go for an ultrasound (which will be twice as many times as with a singleton). They will give you exact measurements and estimate their weight. They will start to talk to you about pre term labor and the dangers of having multiples. Be strong. Remember that your doctor has to prepare you for every scenario so that you're not in a state of shock if something out of the ordinary happens.
You will realize that although you had your other baby showers well into your third trimester, that will more than likely not happen this time around. You will have to prepare a lot sooner. Make sure you keep in mind that many women end up on bed rest during their last trimester, so count that last one out of the question when it comes to baby shopping and preparing the nursery.
You will be told that the magic number is 26. It has been shown in several studies that a healthy multiples pregnancy is that one in which you gain 26 lbs in the first 26 weeks of pregnancy. It has also been proven to reduce the risk of pre term labor. So, you know that hamburger you told yourself you shouldn't eat? It is now time that you should go right ahead and enjoy it. Heaven knows, after the babies are born you'll be lucky to have time to even swallow a cup of coffee!
I have always had bigger than average bellies when carrying. My babies were always eight pounds or more, and I always take pride in saying that. Obviously one of the first things that I thought of when I found out I was having two babies this time around was, "does this mean that I will carry two eight pound babies? How?" The answer to this question is no. That doesn't mean that you will not have an extra large belly! By 34 weeks, you will see that you are the exact same size as you were when you were 40 weeks pregnant with a single baby. Every day after that you can only look at yourself in awe and wonder how much more room you have in there!
Having multiples is a roller coaster ride. Just sit back, hold on tight and enjoy it!
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