Twins and triplets

Discovering you’re expecting more than one baby can be an exciting and worrying time for both you and your partner.

You will usually find out if you’re having twins when you go for your first ultrasound scan.
In the UK, there are over 10,000 multiple births each year and around half of women having twins give birth before 37 weeks.

It’s a good idea to discuss your birth options with your midwife or consultant early on in your pregnancy. Twins or triplets are more likely to be born early and need special care after birth, so your medical team is likely to advise you to have a hospital birth.

You will be closely monitored throughout your pregnancy and your midwife will work with you on a plan of care for your pregnancy, which will include additional scans and appointments. They will make sure you get the right support you need and answer any questions. Your midwife might be able to put you in touch with twins’ groups in your area.

When you’re having more than one baby, you are more likely to develop high blood pressure or diabetes.

Breastfeeding multiple babies

Don’t be put off by breastfeeding just because you are having twins. Your body will produce enough milk for your babies and breastfeeding is a lovely way to calm your babies and create a strong bond with them.

Your midwife can show you how to hold your babies, so they attach and feed well.

The recommendations made around your birth choices depend on how your babies are growing in the womb.

Discussions around whether to plan for a vaginal or caesarean birth will consider the type of twins. This will also affect the recommendation around the best stage in pregnancy to plan for birth. Some women will choose to have their babies as soon as they reach a recommended stage in the pregnancy, while others will choose to have increased monitoring. Your obstetrician will be able to provide information personalised to you.

Whatever is planned for birth, twins can be unpredictable. Planned caesareans sometimes don’t happen due to a quick labour before the operation date. Planned vaginal deliveries result in caesarean sections for one third to one half of twins due to complexities. It is important to be ready for different situations.

If you are having triplets (or more!), then you may be referred to a specialist unit in a larger hospital.

Whatever choices you make, the early months may be hard work until you get into a routine. There is no one way to do things and it’s important to do what’s right for you. Your health visitor is there to support you and keep an eye on your babies’ progress, in partnership with you.

It can be a good idea to connect with more experienced parents of twins while you are still pregnant. There are several twins groups in Kent and Medway, and most parents of twins will be glad to share their experiences and offer tips.