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Multiple Pregnancy vs. Single Pregnancy
Having a multiple pregnancy can be very exciting.
There is something special about having twins. Now that you know you
have a multiple pregnancy, what are some of the considerations to
keep in mind?
In a multiple pregnancy situation, the financial impact is more
pronounced than in a single pregnancy. Two of everything is the
order of the day - two bassinets, two cribs, two strollers (or one
double stroller) and pairs of clothes. And because every baby is
different, you never know when he or she needs to eat, or needs a
change of diapers. A minimum of double the diapers and baby formula
is needed, and these expenses can add up very quickly.
Finances aside, multiple pregnancy can take a toll on your sanity.
Two babies equals double the crying and double the sleepless nights.
Regardless if it's a multiple pregnancy or a single pregnancy,
you'll have to deal with crying and sleeplessness anyway. But the
advantage of the multiple pregnancy is that you'll only have to go
through it once, assuming you're through having children. For single
pregnancies who desire multiple children, they will have to endure
the "terrible twos" more than once. Multiple pregnancy also means
giving birth in one hospital visit.
Medically, multiple pregnancy is automatically considered a "high
risk" pregnancy. Keep in mind, however, that most women endure a
multiple pregnancy with no adverse complications. Normal pregnancy
ailments such as mood swings and back pain are exacerbated, but in
general, it's nothing worse than that.
Watching your nutritional intake is a must with multiple pregnancy.
You have to eat more, but at the same time, not gain excessive
weight. It's a delicate balancing act that needs to be discussed
with your doctor. A general guideline is to increase your caloric
intake by around 250 to 350 calories per day with increased protein.
A multivitamin might also be suggested, although doubling the
recommended dosage can be dangerous.
In multiple pregnancy, you will need to see your doctor more often
than single pregnancy. You'll also need more ultrasound sessions to
closely monitor the development of both fetuses.
In terms of delivery, multiple pregnancy babies usually come to full
term roughly two weeks before the normal due date. Most multiple
pregnancy births are early. This is because the womb is stretched by
the multiple pregnancy quicker than with a single pregnancy. The
cervix then loosens up earlier than normal.
Before giving birth during a multiple pregnancy, you must consult
with your doctor about your delivery options. It is normally
preferred to deliver through vaginal birth, although a Cesarean
section delivery might be best if there is any sort of complication
with the babies in the womb.
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