Caring for Yourself with a Multiple Pregnancy (Twins, Triplets, etc.)

A multiple pregnancy comes with unique joys and challenges, requiring extra care and close monitoring to ensure the health of both mother and babies. Whether you’re expecting twins, triplets, or more, it’s important to understand how your pregnancy may differ from a singleton pregnancy.

Dr. Basu provides evidence based, compassionate care for women experiencing multiple pregnancies, helping you navigate each stage with confidence.

1. What to Expect in a Multiple Pregnancy

Carrying more than one baby means your body will go through greater physical changes and require more nutritional support and medical monitoring. Some key differences include:

• Earlier and more noticeable pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue.
• A higher risk of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
• Increased weight gain 
• More frequent antenatal visits to monitor growth, amniotic fluid levels, and overall maternal health.

Understanding these changes allows you to better prepare for a healthy pregnancy.

2. Essential Antenatal Care for Multiple Pregnancies

More Frequent Appointments

Women carrying multiples require closer monitoring to track fetal development and maternal well-being. Your visits may include:

• More frequent ultrasounds to check each baby’s growth and placenta function.
• Monitoring for gestational diabetes and high blood pressure (both more common in multiple pregnancies).
• Early screening for preterm labour risks and cervical length checks.

Regular check-ups help identify and manage potential complications early.

Increased Nutritional Needs

A multiple pregnancy requires extra calories, protein, iron, and folic acid to support fetal development. Consider:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Increasing calcium and iron intake to support both maternal and fetal health.
• Staying hydrated and taking pregnancy vitamins with additional folic acid.

Proper nutrition reduces the risk of low birth weight and preterm labour.

Physical Well-Being & Comfort

• Resting frequently to reduce strain on your body.
• Using maternity support belts to ease back pain.
• Practising gentle exercises, such as swimming or stretching, to support circulation and relieve discomfort.

Caring for your body ensures a more comfortable and healthier pregnancy.

3. Multiple Pregnancy Common Risks Management

Preterm Labour & Birth

Multiple pregnancies are at a higher risk of premature birth. Warning signs include:

• Regular contractions before 37 weeks
• Pelvic pressure or lower back pain
• Increased vaginal discharge or fluid leakage

Preeclampsia & High Blood Pressure

Women carrying multiples are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia. Symptoms include:

• High blood pressure
• Swelling in the hands and face
• Persistent headaches or vision changes

Routine blood pressure checks and early medical intervention help manage these risks.

Gestational Diabetes

Carrying more than one baby increases the likelihood of gestational diabetes, which requires dietary management and blood sugar monitoring.

With regular screenings, a healthy diet, and lifestyle adjustments, the risk of complications can be minimised.

4. Preparing for Multiple Pregnancy Delivery: What You Need to Know

Many multiple pregnancies require early delivery due to the risk of complications. Planning ahead ensures you’re prepared for all possibilities:

• Vaginal birth vs. C-section: Twin pregnancies can sometimes be delivered vaginally, but a Caesarean section may be recommended in some situations. 
• Hospital birth with a specialised team: A multiple pregnancy often requires neonatal specialists on standby in case babies need extra support after birth.
• Birth planning discussions: Talk to your obstetrician about your preferred delivery method, pain relief options, and postnatal care needs.

5. Postnatal Recovery and Caring for Multiple Pregnancy

Recovering from a multiple birth may take longer than a singleton birth, but with the right support, you can heal and adjust smoothly.

Recovery & Self-Care

• Allow your body adequate rest to heal, 
• Eat nutrient-rich meals to regain strength and support breastfeeding.
• Accept help from family or postnatal support services to manage the extra workload.

Newborn Care & Feeding

• If breastfeeding, expect increased demand and consider lactation support.
• If bottle-feeding, plan for extra feeding supplies and a feeding schedule.

Seeking support from family, friends, or multiple birth groups can make the transition easier.

Expert Multiple Pregnancy Care in Brisbane

If you’re expecting twins, triplets, or more, it’s important to have specialist obstetric care to ensure the healthiest pregnancy possible. Dr. Basu provides personalised support, birth planning, and postnatal care to help you navigate your journey with confidence.

Book an appointment today to receive expert care tailored to your unique pregnancy needs.