Difference between single and twin pregnancy symptoms

A twin pregnancy can happen as a chance occurrence due to the presence of two fetuses being fertilized, or it may run in the family. It is commoner in those who conceive after In vitro fertilization. It may occur when one fertilized embryo splits after growing for some time, leading to the birth of homozygous or identical twins. Alternatively, it can occur when two different ova are fertilized by two sperms, forming two different fertilized embryos, resulting in the birth of heterozygous twins or fraternal twins. Identical twins usually have similar physical characteristics and are usually of the same gender, but fraternal twins may be of different genders and have different characteristics. Twins are like siblings but are born together.

There are several factors that may lead to twin pregnancies, but mostly they are random. Twin pregnancies differ from single pregnancies, and there are several myths associated with them. Here are some of the common differences between twin pregnancy and single pregnancy based on the symptoms mothers-to-be may experience.

Differences between single and twin pregnancy symptoms

The difference between single and twin pregnancy symptoms is key to understanding if you are likely to have twins or not before visiting a doctor. Learn the top 7 differences between single and twin pregnancy symptoms below.

1. Increased morning sickness symptoms: One of the most common symptoms may be increased intensity and frequency of nausea and vomiting not only in the morning but also during the day, during the first trimester. The reason for this may be attributed to increased levels of hormone production for the development of two babies, leading to increased levels of morning sickness symptoms.
2. Gaining more weight than normal: During twin pregnancies, the mother's body requires to be strong enough to support and carry two babies to full term. This may cause them to gain more weight than they would have in the case of a single pregnancy. Regularly monitoring the weight gained may help keep track of the weight gained, and comparing it to the established norm of weight gain may give an idea if the expecting mother may be carrying two babies.
3. Severe fatigue: It is normal to experience more fatigue during pregnancy, but twin pregnancies can take up more energy of the mothers and may take a toll on the body as it is working hard to provide for both the babies.
4. Fetal movement in more than one area: With two babies growing in the womb, there can be an increased feeling of movement from different areas. This may become more prominent during the second trimester when babies tend to be more active.
5. Frequent urination: Frequent urination is a normal symptom of pregnancy. However, with two babies growing inside the womb and more production of hormones, there may be extra pressure on the urinary bladder and the urinary tract. This may cause very frequent trips to the bathroom and is one of the most prominent symptoms of twin pregnancy.
6. Increased appetite: When carrying two growing babies, it is normal for the body to need more nutrients to support the needs of the growing fetuses. This may lead to an increased appetite, and the mother may require more calories.
7. Rapidly growing belly: The visible difference between twin pregnancy and single pregnancy is the rapidly growing shape of the uterus. The uterus may expand faster and look bigger than in the case of a single pregnancy. Comparing the size of the belly with the expected gestational age can indicate the presence of two growing babies inside.

How is a twin pregnancy confirmed?

Confirming a twin pregnancy involves various methods:

• Ultrasound: Ultrasound is the primary and most accurate means to confirm twins, offering visual confirmation of two fetuses and their development. It also helps determine their type (fraternal or identical).
• Fetal Doppler: While not used for initial confirmation, a fetal Doppler is valuable for monitoring both twins' heartbeats during prenatal care, ensuring their well-being.
• Blood Test: Blood tests, like hCG level assessments, may suggest a twin pregnancy due to elevated hormone levels, but they are less definitive than ultrasound.
• Clinical Examination: Clinical assessments, such as uterine size and physical signs, may raise suspicion of twins, but they are less precise than ultrasound in confirming twin pregnancies.

Complications associated with twin pregnancies

Potential complications associated with twin pregnancies may include:

• Preterm birth: Twins are at a heightened risk of being born before the 37-week mark of pregnancy.
• Low birth weight: Twin infants often have lower birth weights compared to singletons.
• Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS): This is a rare condition that can arise when twins share a placenta, resulting in uneven blood flow, potentially leading to imbalanced amniotic fluid levels. Without intervention, TTTS can be fatal for both twins.
• Placental abruption: This serious condition involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to bleeding and posing risks to both the mother and babies.
• Preeclampsia: This pregnancy-related condition is characterized by elevated blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine, and it occurs more frequently in twin pregnancies compared to single pregnancies.
• Anemia: The risk of anemia is higher in twin pregnancies due to the increased demand for blood production to support the growth of two fetuses.
• Cesarean delivery: Twin pregnancies have a greater likelihood of requiring a cesarean section rather than a vaginal delivery, as the latter can be more challenging and riskier in such cases.

Tips to stay healthy during pregnancy

After having taken diagnostic tests to confirm a twin pregnancy, and after learning about the differences between single and twin pregnancy symptoms, it is time to focus on staying healthy during pregnancy to support the growing babies in the womb.

Here are a few tips to stay healthy when pregnant with twins:

• Consult a gynecologist and a professional dietitian to establish a healthy eating plan. Including nutritious whole foods is extremely important to provide the necessary nutrients for the growth and development of babies.
• Stay hydrated, as frequent urination during pregnancy may cause an increased expulsion of water from the body. The growing fetuses also require essential nutrients that are carried through water inside the body.
• Avoid junk or fast food as much as possible, as they can be very unhealthy for both the mother and the babies.
• Get ample amounts of sleep to combat fatigue and exhaustion caused by carrying the extra weight of two growing fetuses.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, or any drugs that are not recommended by the gynecologist.
• Manage stress through yoga and engage in moderate physical activity, as recommended by the gynecologist.
• Take prenatal vitamins and other supplements in the required doses, as recommended by the doctor.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with the doctor and strictly follow their instructions.

These tips can be recommended for mothers with both single and multiple pregnancies.

Conclusion

Whether it is a single pregnancy or a twin pregnancy, each comes with its own set of challenges and experiences. When you are aware of the differences between single and twin pregnancy symptoms, you can provide that extra care during your gestational period. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensuring you eat and drink enough to support the growing babies and to attend all of your gynecologist's appointments for regular check-ups.