How Much Weight Should I Gain if I'm Pregnant With Multiples?
Mothers carrying multiples are expected to gain more weight during pregnancy than
mothers carrying a single fetus. But exactly how much weight you should gain depends
on your pre-pregnancy weight and the number of fetuses, so make sure to talk to your
doctor.
In general, though, you should consume about 300 additional calories a day for
each fetus. It might be tough to eat a lot when your abdomen is full of babies, so
try to eat smaller, more frequent meals.
How Should I Prepare for Delivery?
Getting ready for a multiple birth may seem overwhelming, especially with concerns
about pre-term labor. But know that you have a network of support around you: capable
doctors, a caring hospital staff, and a partner, family members, and/or friends.
Discuss the options of vaginal delivery versus cesarean section (C-section)
with your doctor well before your due date. Even if you and your doctor agree to attempt
a vaginal delivery, things may happen during labor or delivery that make a C-section
necessary.
You may choose to have additional birthing attendants in the room during labor
and birth. For example, midwives are becoming more common.
For multiples, it's usually recommended that a midwife work with a doctor, rather
than alone.
Hiring a doula is another option. Doulas offer support services
to women during the birth, as well as after delivery, by assisting with infant care
and household chores.
What Will Delivery Be Like?
As labor begins, you'll
be connected to a fetal monitor so your doctor can check each baby's progress.
If you're hoping for a vaginal delivery, remember that with multiples this isn't
always possible. Sometimes, a C-section is needed to help keep the babies safe. Most triplets and other higher-order multiples are born by
C-section.
If your doctor needs to do a C-section, a catheter will be placed in your bladder,
you'll be given medicine so that you don't feel pain, and an incision will be made
in your abdomen and uterus. The doctor will then deliver your babies through the incision.
The babies will be delivered within just a few minutes of each other with this approach.
The incision will then be closed.
Many babies born prematurely will need to go immediately to the NICU for the special
care they need.
What Else Should I Know?
The first days, weeks, and months are often the most difficult for parents
of multiples, as everyone gets used to the frequent feedings, lack of sleep, and
lack of personal time.
It can help to join a support group for parents of multiples. Hearing what has
worked well for others can help you find solutions to problems you come across.
Enlist whatever help you can — from neighbors, family members, and friends
— for household chores and daily tasks. Having extra hands around not only will
make feedings easier and help you rest and recover
from delivery; it also will give you the precious time you need to get to
know your babies.
Date reviewed: February 2018