Pregnancy Concerns Archives | Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site

Braxton Hicks Contractions with Twins: What to Know

Twiniversity — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Not everyone experiences Braxton Hicks contractions during their pregnancy, but if you do, it can be very confusing at first. You may have lots of questions like: Are these Braxton Hicks or regular contractions I’m feeling? How do I make them stop? Should I call my doctor? Well, don’t worry because we are about to answer all of these for you! Braxton Hicks contractions are like your uterus’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m getting ready for the big day!” These “practice contractions” are usually totally normal. But when you’re growing not one but two tiny humans, they might feel a little different. So keep reading for all you need to know about what Braxton Hicks contractions feel like and when they’ll likely pop up during your twin pregnancy. What do Braxton Hicks contractions with twins feel like? Braxton Hicks contractions can feel like your belly is suddenly tightening up. Imagine a gentle squeeze, like someone is giving your bump a hug from the inside. They’re usually: When you’re carrying twins, these sensations might feel more noticeable than they would in a singleton pregnancy. Your uterus is working double-time, which could make the tightening more pronounced. Some moms say Braxton Hicks contractions feel like a mild cramping, similar to period pains. Others describe it as their belly suddenly becoming hard as a rock—almost like it’s flexing–which is how they felt to me! If you put your hand on your bump, you might even feel it tense up. The key thing to remember is that these Braxton Hicks contractions are not supposed to hurt. They might catch you off guard, but they’re more of an odd sensation than anything else. And unlike real labor, they won’t get progressively stronger or closer together. If they’re making you uncomfortable though, a quick change of positions, a glass of water, or some deep breaths should help them fade away shortly. Another question that may be causing you to worry is how early you begin noticing BH contractions. So let’s go over that next! When do Braxton Hicks contractions start in a twin pregnancy? Braxton Hicks contractions can start earlier when you’re pregnant with twins. While moms carrying one baby might notice them in the third trimester, twin moms sometimes feel them as early as the second trimester. Here’s why: Even though they’re early, Braxton Hicks contractions with twins are still harmless. Remember, they are simply your body’s way of practicing for the big day. Why Braxton Hicks contractions are a good thing Even though they can be a bit annoying, Braxton Hicks contractions are actually a sign that your body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to – preparing for birth! That said, they may feel a bit uncomfortable, so here are some ways you can help them go away. Tips to handle Braxton Hicks contractions with twins These simple fixes usually do the trick. If they don’t, it’s worth checking in with your doctor just to be safe. How to tell Braxton Hicks contractions from labor contractions Think of it this way: Braxton Hicks contractions are like the dress rehearsal, while real labor is the main event. Here are some basics for telling the two apart: Another big clue is timing. Braxton Hicks contractions come and go randomly. Meanwhile real labor contractions have a steady rhythm, like a drumbeat that’s getting louder and faster. Also, real labor contractions tend to start in your back and move to the front, creating a full-circle sensation. Braxton Hicks, on the other hand, are usually just in the front around your belly. If you’re still not sure, grab a timer and track your contractions. If they’re getting stronger, closer together, and lasting longer, it might be time to call your doctor or head to the hospital. When to call your doctor Even though it’s normal to have Braxton Hicks contractions with twins, there are a few red flags to watch for. Call your doctor if: Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone to check in with your healthcare provider. They’d rather answer your questions than have you worrying at home! And you will have more peace of mind too. Final thoughts on Braxton Hicks contractions with twins Braxton Hicks contractions are just another part of twin pregnancy. They might start earlier and feel a little stronger, but they’re usually no big deal. Stay hydrated, take breaks, and listen to your body—you’ve got this! And as always, don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you’re unsure about anything. Every twin pregnancy is unique, so your experience with Braxton Hicks might be different from someone else’s. The most important thing is to stay informed, take care of yourself, and get ready to meet those two amazing babies soon! Want to learn more about contractions and preparing for labor? Check out these too:

The post Braxton Hicks Contractions with Twins: What to Know appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

What Are Common Complications of Twin Pregnancy?

Twiniversity — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Pregnant with twins and finding yourself googling: what are the complications of twin pregnancy? You’re not alone. We’re here with answers for you about the most common complications for twin pregnancies. Unless you’ve been pregnant before, you’ve likely been misled into a simplified understanding of how pregnancy works. You get pregnant, deal with some temporary challenges—crazy cravings, morning sickness, etc.—and then poof, you have the baby! It sounds linear enough, right? But of course, pregnancy can be much more complex than that (at least in my experience). And if you’re pregnant with twins, your mind may be swirling wondering about the extra complications of twin pregnancy. Thankfully, my twin pregnancy was fairly easy for the first trimester. I had the usual tired feelings but no morning sickness. (I did have a meat aversion which I was told was very normal). No biggie there. But then came the second trimester of my twin pregnancy. That was tricky because my placenta was dangerously close to my pelvic floor which made me unable to workout. The third trimester was even harder. I was told I had to be mostly on bed rest because my blood pressure kept spiking. Having been through a fraction of complications, it made me wonder about other complications expecting twin moms are up against. So, if you’re expecting twins and want to be super informed, keep reading for a list of 7 common complications of twin pregnancy to be aware of. Please keep in mind that this list isn’t meant to cause you alarm. Instead, it’s meant to educate you and help you be more aware about twin pregnancy challenges to look out for. Of course, your concerns should always be addressed with your doctor!! Disclaimer: All content on this website, including medical opinions and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. 1. Preterm labor with twins Let’s start with a well-known complication of twin pregnancy that everybody brings up: preterm labor. Premature birth is a common complication with pregnancies involving multiples. In fact, more than 60% of twins and multiples are born prematurely. So what qualities as being “premature” anyway? According to the World Health Organization, a preterm birth means any birth that occurs before 37 weeks gestation. If you experience this, your doctor will be there to plan out your options and back-up plans. Babies who are born before 37 weeks often need medical intervention in a NICU because their bodies and organ systems haven’t fully matured. There are great hospitals and organizations out there with amazing people who can help with prematurity in twins. I refer to them as angels in scrubs because that’s really who they are. This includes the nursing and doctor staff at the NICU. There are also other unsung friends like the Little Giraffe Foundation, Madhatter Knits, and March of Dimes. Symptoms to look out for with preterm labor: Learn more about preterm labor and prematurity with twins: 2. Vanishing twin syndrome (or miscarriage) Vanishing twin (VTS) was a recent term I heard from a couple of different moms as of late. It’s a type of miscarriage that happens with twin pregnancies and multiple pregnancies. VTS occurs when multiple embryos were detected during an ultrasound but can’t be found on future ultrasounds. Usually with this twin pregnancy complication, the tissue from the other twin gets absorbed by the other embryo and the mother. VTS most often occurs in the first trimester. And while it may cause sadness and alarm, the surviving twin is usually able to carry on in a healthy pregnancy. Symptoms to look out for with vanishing twin syndrome: Learn more about vanishing twin syndrome and how to get support: 3. Gestational diabetes (GD) Gestational diabetes is when you develop diabetes for the first time during pregnancy. This is usually diagnosed when you do the 1-hour and 3-hour glucose test between weeks 24 – 28. This pregnancy complication can happen for singleton pregnancies, but it’s even more common in twin and multiple pregnancies. One study found that gestational diabetes was three times more likely to develop in a twin pregnancy compared to a singleton pregnancy. Like other types of diabetes, pregnant twin moms with GD will have to manage their sugar intake during this time. This may involve doing regular blood sugar readings, checking in frequently with your OB, and making dietary changes. Controlling your blood sugar during pregnancy will help keep you and your babies healthy. And the good news is that gestational diabetes is likely to go away once you deliver. Symptoms to look out for with gestational diabetes: Learn more about gestational diabetes: 4. Anemia of pregnancy Another complication of twin pregnancy is anemia. Anemia is a medical condition marked by a low red blood cell count. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering fresh oxygen throughout the tissues in your body. When you’re pregnant, your blood volume increases. This means your body is hard at work making more red blood cells. But in order to make more red blood cells, you need more vitamins and minerals (like iron). Anemia of pregnancy can often be managed with iron supplements and an altered diet. This could include eating foods with higher iron (i.e. spinach, lean beef, etc.) and consuming more Vitamin C (which helps absorb iron). Another complication for twin pregnancies involving anemia is called Twin Anemia Polycythemia Syndrome (aka TAPS). This happens in twins who share a placenta when one of the twins becomes anemic due to an imbalance of red blood cells. Symptoms to look out for with anemia: Learn more about anemia of pregnancy: 5. Twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) This… Continue Reading What Are Common Complications of Twin Pregnancy?

The post What Are Common Complications of Twin Pregnancy? appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Your Guide to Coping With Twin Pregnancy Complications

Twiniversity — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Twin pregnancies can be notoriously more complex than singleton pregnancies. So as twin parents who’ve been in your shoes, we’re here to give you clear ways to mentally and emotionally cope with whatever twin pregnancy complications you’re up against. Disclaimer: All content on this website, including medical opinions and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. Twin pregnancies can be notoriously complicated. To help you feel less overwhelmed and alone, we’ve put together a mini guide for coping with a complicated twin pregnancy. So keep reading! You’ll learn 7 practical ways to mentally and emotionally cope with any complications during twin pregnancy. How to cope with twin pregnancy complications? Without even officially being diagnosed with a “complication,” twin pregnancy is already complicated in and of itself. After all, you have to think about what’s best for not just one but TWO babies. There are two heartbeats you’re listening for at your ultrasounds. And two kicking babies you’re feeling for every day. If you’re expecting twins and this feels more exciting than scary, then that’s amazing! But if you’re reading this thinking, “Yeah, I’m totally freaking out,” then here are 7 ways we suggest managing your anxiety: 1. Join a support group or community Our anxieties usually expand when we feel like we’re alone in what we’re experiencing. But the reality is that, as unique as your situation may be, there are likely others out there who can relate to what you’re going through. That’s why we highly suggest joining support groups and communities with folks who have had similar challenges. Here are a few options for building a community of support for yourself throughout your complicated twin pregnancy: There really are endless networks of support out there. So take that first step and find your people so you can start leaning into their support. 2. Talk to a therapist Seeking the support of a licensed mental health professional is always a good option. A therapist can provide you the space needed to work through the overwhelming thoughts and feelings that come with pregnancy complications. What’s better is they can give you research-backed tools and practices that benefit your overall well-being. As someone who experienced a twin pregnancy with endless complications, my biggest regret is not seeking therapy sooner. So do yourself (and your babies) a favor and get yourself the expert support you deserve. Here are two great places you can begin your search for a fitting therapist: 3. Engage in mindfulness practices With twin pregnancy complications, your mind is likely spinning with all sorts of worries and fears. And rightfully so. You have two little humans growing inside of you to care for, not to mention yourself. But when you don’t seek relief from those feelings, the excess stress can leave you feeling depleted. It can even lead to additional health challenges if left unchecked over long periods of time. This is why mindfulness practices that re-ground you can be super helpful. They bring you back to the present moment, allowing your nervous system to take a break from overwhelming feelings like stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing, meditation, light yoga, and journaling are all great tools for coping with a stressful twin pregnancy. 4. Try tapping/Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Another powerhouse tool for coping with pregnancy complications is the emotional freedom technique. This is also known as EFT or tapping for anxiety. EFT, or tapping, is a technique that improves communication between the mind and body. One study showed that after just one tapping session, individuals were able to experience anxiety relief and improved control over their emotions. A tapping session can be as short as a few minutes or as long as you need it to be. Here’s a quick rundown of how tapping works: If you’re a visual learner, here’s a quick EFT tutorial video! Once you finish a tapping sequence, it can help to re-evaluate the intensity of your anxiety. Ideally, your stress levels will have lowered at least a little after tapping. 5. Move your body When you feel overly stressed or anxious, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode. This means that levels of stress hormones in your body (like adrenaline and cortisol) increase. In dire situations, these stress hormones can be helpful. But when you experience stress and anxiety for too long, it can negatively impact your overall health. Thankfully, even 20 minutes of light exercise can help release these stress hormones for you. Here are a few ways you may consider moving your body during your complicated twin pregnancy: Of course you should absolutely check in with your doctor about what exercise is safe for you and your unique pregnancy! 6. Get in a good laugh Laughter has been proven to have many health benefits. Some of these include: reduced insomnia, improved mental health, lower stress levels, uplifted mood, and more. On our stressful road trips to the hospital while pregnant, my husband and I would listen to various comedians on Spotify. We found that listening to comedy gave us a very much-needed relief from talking about the scary medical challenges of our Twin B. So if you’re in need of humor to lessen your twin pregnancy stress, try one of these: 7. Do other things that bring you joy When you’re feeling anxious about your twin pregnancy, it can be all too easy to become single-track minded. In the midst of your stress, you may find that you stop doing many of the things you used to do that made you happy. But when you’re feeling the most stressed is precisely the time that… Continue Reading Your Guide to Coping With Twin Pregnancy Complications

The post Your Guide to Coping With Twin Pregnancy Complications appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Twin Pregnancy Concerns

Twiniversity — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 17:45:29 +0000

Twin Pregnancy Books To Read When You’re Having Two Searching for twin pregnancy books to prepare you for your… Twin Pregnancy Advice for New Twin Parents Looking for twin pregnancy advice as a first time twin… What is Fundal Height and Why Should I Care? Fundal height is the measurement of the largest distance from… What is a Shortened Cervix? Are you dealing with a shortened cervix and wondering what… Twins’ Heartbeats: When and How Will You Hear Them? Aside from that first cry, there is no sweeter sound… Miscarriages: Knowing, Understanding, and Coping Disclaimer: This article touches on the sensitive topics of miscarriages… Prenatal Genetic Testing in Twin Pregnancy From the moment you find out you’re having twins, their… Medicine During Pregnancy: Which Ones Are Really Safe? All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and… Can I Stop Morning Sickness? Morning sickness is often the first, and most common sign… Twin Pregnancy Facebook Group – Join Today! Are you pregnant with twins and looking for a support… Vanishing Twin: Why it Happens and Why You’re Not to Blame Have you been told you’re suffering from vanishing twin syndrome?… What Is The Average Length of Twin Pregnancy Being pregnant is an amazing time. It can be a… Best Twin Pregnancy App That’s Also a Raising Twins App – The Twiniversity App is Here! Do you wish there was a twin pregnancy app that… What is Vasa Previa? Have you been diagnosed with vasa previa? Check out this… SIUGR: What is Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction? Did you just get a sIUGR diagnosis? Not sure what… What is TAPS? Learn About Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence All content on this Website, including medical opinion and any… Seven is Enough: Life with Twins, Triplets, and Two Singletons | Twiniversity Podcast With Multiple Mom Phoebe Kannisto This week on the Twiniversity Podcast Nat chats with mom… Lightning Crotch: What Causes it and What to do About it? Have you heard of lightning crotch? Learn what kind of… My Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Experience | Twiniversity Podcast With Twin Mom Amanda Blankenship This week on the Twiniversity Podcast Nat chats with Amanda… What Causes Pregnancy Rib Pain and What Can You do About it? Have you been experiencing pregnancy rib pain? Learn what might… Twins Plus One: In the SAME Pregnancy? Picture it… the year 2020. You find out you are… Placenta Tree of Life: Planting a Placenta Birth Tree Placenta Tree of Life! Many animals have rituals when it… The First-Time Mom’s Pregnancy Handbook Nat chats with Bryn Huntpalmer, founder of The Birth Hour… Twins Ultrasound: 10 Tips to Get The Most Out Of Your Visit At your next twins ultrasound think about these top 10… How to Advocate for Your Pregnancy Nat chats with twin mom Anna De Souza about how… Twin Pregnancy Symptoms: 10 Surprising Signs It Might Be Two Pregnant? Wondering what Twin Pregnancy Symptoms could be? Could you… It Wasn’t Easy But I Kept My Twin Pregnancy Secret Nat chats with Aleksandra Gold, a mom of 14-month-old twin… What is Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome? Nat chats with Jenna Morton about learning at 19 weeks… TOP COVID-19 Articles for Pregnancy, Babies, Kids, and Parents If you’re looking for advice, guidance, information, and (dare I… Why You Need to Deal with Your Trauma In this podcast episode, Nat chats with Rebecca Huls, a… A COVID-19 Twins Delivery Without Daddy In episode 88 of the Twiniversity Podcast, “A COVID-19 Twins… COVID-19 Birth Plan (with FREE Printable) If you’re pregnant during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, here’s what… January Update: COVID-19 Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Young Child Advisory This article was updated with current information on January 26,… I Wish I Hadn’t Ignored the Signs of Preterm Labor Read the reasons why a mom of twins wishes she… My Boss Was an Ally For My Twin Pregnancy and I’m So Grateful Read a letter from a twin mom to her boss… Crazy Twin Pregnancy Moments You’ll Never Forget We asked our Twiniversity fans to share with us their… Prenatal Care for Your Identical Twin Pregnancy Finding out you’re having identical twins can cause a whirlwind… 10 Things Not to Say to a Woman Pregnant with Twins Learn from a twin mom about the 10 things NOT… Multiplicity: Wrapping My Head Around the Idea of Twins We sit in firm, angular chairs in the grey-carpeted waiting… Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli-Sliced Meats and Cheeses A total of 8 people infected with the outbreak strain… Irritable Uterus? 5 Tips To Manage One With A Twin Pregnancy What is an irritable uterus? Has someone told you that… Finding the Humor Through Those Twin Pregnancy Days Read how a mom of twins learned the importance of… Preparing Your Cat to Meet Newborn Twins When you’re a cat parent who has just found out… I Got Pregnant With Twins While Using Protection I became pregnant with twins at the mature age of… My High-Risk Preemie Twins Birth Story A birth is typically thought of as an event full… Twiniversity NYC Expecting Twins Classes Back in Session Nat is going “back to school” this August with a… Family-Centered C-Sections Have you ever heard of a “family-centered c-section”? A family-centered… 10 Tips to Deal with a Summer Twins Pregnancy Before I found out I was having twins, before my… How to Count the Kicks for Twins Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease… 7 Tips to Manage Hypothyroidism When You Have Twins Raising twins: it’s a wild, busy, amazing ride. Raising twins… Twiniversity Podcast with Natalie Diaz Got twins? Us too! The Twiniversity Podcast with Natalie Diaz… I Had Twins at 53 Yes, you read that right. I had twins at 53-years-old…. An Incompetent Cervix – What it Means and When to Worry When I found out I was expecting twins, one of… My Prenatal Depression with Twins It was a hot August morning when I woke up,… The Birth Hour Podcast: Julie’s Double Whammy Twin… Continue Reading Twin Pregnancy Concerns

The post Twin Pregnancy Concerns appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

What is a Shortened Cervix?

Twiniversity — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Are you dealing with a shortened cervix and wondering what that means? We can help! Read our response below to a pregnant mom who asked this very question. When a mom-to-be asked, “What do you know about an early shortened cervix?” we knew we had to jump in and help her out. That’s what we do here at Twiniversity. Here’s what we found: What is a Shortened Cervix? The cervix is the opening to the uterus (womb) that sits at the top of the vagina (birth canal). It opens, shortens, and gets thinner and softer so your baby can pass through the birth canal during labor and birth. In some women, the cervix opens too early during pregnancy or is shorter than normal. A shortened cervix can cause problems during pregnancy, including premature birth and miscarriage. What does this all mean? Why does the length of your cervix matter? The length of your cervix can affect the type of pregnancy you have. If you have a short cervix, you are at increased risk of having a premature birth. What causes a shortened cervix? There are 3 main causes of a shortened cervix. How do you know if you have a short cervix? When you’re pregnant, you learn all kinds of things about your anatomy, especially during prenatal ultrasounds. You may find out that you have a short cervix during an early ultrasound. However, checking for a short cervix is not a routine prenatal test. You need to beware of the symptoms and always discuss concerns with your healthcare provider. What are the symptoms of a short cervix? Symptoms of shortened cervix include: There is some good news though. Once diagnosed, there are treatments that can help delay your delivery as long as possible. What are the treatments for a shortened cervix? Because a short cervix can increase the risk of premature labor, there are treatments to help keep you pregnant longer. Here are the most common treatment options: Cervical cerclage A cervical cerclage is basically a strong stitch that closes the cervix. This is a temporary stitch, and your doctor will remove it once it’s safe for you to deliver. Progesterone If considered high risk, your doctor may prescribe progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone that helps prepare your body for pregnancy, and it may help prevent premature birth. Bed Rest Your doctor may recommend bed rest (or pelvic rest). This can mean anything from no sex or strenuous activity to full-on, only-get-up-to-pee bed rest. A short cervix can be scary, stressful, and frustrating. But the good news is that doctors are getting much better at diagnosing and treating a short cervix before labor starts. If diagnosed with a shortened cervix, just know that you are not the only one. Keep reading to hear about some personal experiences with a shortened cervix. Personal Experiences from our Twiniversity Community I have a history of preterm labor. I had my son at 35 weeks so I immediately went to a perinatologist when I found out I was pregnant with twins. My cervix started to shorten at 26 weeks, went into labor at 31 weeks, and was in the hospital for a week until they stopped it. I walked around dilated to 7cm and 90% effaced until 37 weeks when they broke my water because I was full-term then. They didn’t think it was safe for me to continue walking around like that because if my water broke on its own I definitely wouldn’t have time to get to the hospital. They were 100% right. I delivered both of my twins within 45 minutes of my water breaking. I am beyond grateful a perinatologist was following me and caught me going into preterm labor before I even really felt anything. The last 11 weeks of my pregnancy were the most stressful time of my life but you can make it to full term with a shortened cervix and have healthy perfect little babies! I had preterm labor at 21 weeks with a shortened cervix. I was put on bed rest and had regular visits to the perinatologist. It kept shortening, but kept my twins in until 36 weeks. And I had healthy baby boys with no NICU time! More responses from our community I had a shortened cervix early on but my OB/GYN said it was fine no big deal. At 24 weeks, I went into preterm labor for 3 days and I was admitted into the hospital. At 24 weeks and 5 days, my twins were born. I wish my OB/GYN would have told me to take it easy or go on bed rest. But my babies are wonderful now after 116 days in NICU. Mine began shortening early and I had regular visits to the perinatologist. I was given the steroid shots to help lung development at about 28 weeks. My cervix was virtually gone by 30 weeks so I was put on bed rest. For other reasons, I delivered about a week and a half later. Six weeks in NICU. Everyone’s perfectly healthy a year and a half later! Mine was short early on but stayed closed. I had the twins at 37 weeks because my blood pressure started going up and no NICU. Good luck! Mine started thinning at 18 weeks, then funneling, then eventually dilating at 22 weeks. I saw a perinatologist at 20 weeks, who was pretty cold (basically said there’s no hope). We went for a second opinion once I started dilating and he did an emergency cerclage that day. Made it another 15 WEEKS after that! Babies born pink and screaming at 37 weeks and 2 days. Mine shortened down to basically nothing at 16 weeks. I had an emergency cerclage and spent the rest of my pregnancy on bed rest (4+ weeks of it on hospital bed rest). I delivered at 31 weeks. Other personal experiences from Twiniversity moms Went on strict hospital bed rest for this at 23 weeks. Still couldn’t stop the babies from coming early at 28 weeks. They are okay… Continue Reading What is a Shortened Cervix?

The post What is a Shortened Cervix? appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Miscarriages: Knowing, Understanding, and Coping

Twiniversity — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 08:49:00 +0000

Disclaimer: This article touches on the sensitive topics of miscarriages and pregnancy loss. All content on this website, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. My miscarriage started with a bike ride. It was a muggy June afternoon. My husband and I were really into biking at the time, and we met after work for a 15-mile ride. I was eight weeks pregnant with our first child, and I had yet to share the news with most of my family and friends. At the time, I was feeling really good. I was happy and excited. This baby was very much planned for and already exceptionally loved. The Symptoms A little less than halfway through the ride, I started to feel a bit queasy. I figured it was normal pregnancy nausea. A short time later, I noticed some uncomfortable cramping. I tried to push through it, but the warm and humid weather wasn’t helping matters. We turned around, and I managed to make it back to the car and drive home. With every twinge of discomfort, I grew more concerned. Could I be having a miscarriage? My heart sank even deeper when I went to the bathroom and realized I was bleeding. It wasn’t heavy, but it was there. My hope was shriveling. I think I’m having a miscarriage. I called my OB/Gyn’s answering service, and a short time later, a nurse called back. She said that spotting and cramping were common in early pregnancy, and I was advised to monitor the bleeding. If it worsened, I would call back the next morning. After a night spent scouring the Internet for signs and symptoms of miscarriages, I woke up feeling a little better, but my tiny sliver of optimism vanished when I saw more blood. This was my reality. I know I’m having a miscarriage. A short time later, I called the OB/Gyn again, and they said they’d call back when an ultrasound appointment popped up. I went to work in an attempt to divert my attention, and it wasn’t long before I received the call. The Confirmation I waited for my husband to pick me up. I felt equal parts scared, angry, sad, and confused, and I didn’t want to be alone. While I am not an optimist by nature, I truly felt in both my head and heart that something wasn’t right. My fears were later confirmed when the ultrasound tech was unable to locate a heartbeat. She couldn’t even see an embryo. “Are you sure you have your dates right?” she asked, a hint of sympathy in her eyes. “Positive,” I said. Just like that pregnancy test I took a month or so before. My conscience was a whirlwind, occasionally interrupted by medical terms like “gestational sac” and “fetal pole.” When we walked out of the room, I still didn’t fully understand what was happening. We made our way to the OB/Gyn’s office, where my husband and I sat silently in a cold, sterile room. My doctor walked in and handed me a box of tissues as she calmly explained the situation. I was having a blighted ovum miscarriage. My pregnancy had ended before an embryo had even formed. All I had inside of me was an empty sac. That, and my broken heart. The Aftermath After I processed my reality, I scheduled a D&C (dilation and curettage) for the following week. Things started happening on their own pretty quickly. I spent several days in excruciating pain while passing baseball-sized blood clots. I later learned, through experience, that this pain was not unlike actual labor. Eventually, I passed the gestational sac on my own. I felt a mixture of emptiness, relief, and devastation. As much as I felt I needed to mourn this loss, how could I mourn a baby who was never actually a baby? It took about a week for me to recover physically, but much longer to recover mentally. I was fortunate to become pregnant again a few months later with a baby boy, and I had a relatively uneventful 41 week 5 day (!) pregnancy. My son, now seven, is my proverbial light at the end of the tunnel; my rainbow after the storm. We completed our family four years later with spontaneous identical twin daughters. I wanted to share my miscarriage story not only to introduce this informational article but also to provide solidarity and comfort to mothers who may be experiencing similar symptoms or the difficult aftermath of a miscarriage. In this article, we will cover the signs, symptoms, causes, and aftereffects of miscarriages, and we will also provide resources to help with coping and moving forward. What is a miscarriage? The National Library of Medicine defines a miscarriage as “an unexpected loss of pregnancy before the 20th week.” Medical experts may also refer to a miscarriage as a “spontaneous abortion.” Miscarriages often occur very early in a pregnancy. Many times, a woman will begin to miscarry before she knows she is pregnant. Some women may miscarry without realizing it, mistaking the bleeding and cramping for a heavy period. When a miscarriage occurs before the fifth week of gestation, that is classified as a chemical pregnancy. Blighted ovum miscarriages, like mine, account for approximately half of all quantified first trimester miscarriages. According to the American Pregnancy Association, these occur when an egg is fertilized and cells begin to develop the gestational sac, but the progress is terminated (likely due to chromosomal issues) before an embryo is formed. Miscarriages are sadly very common, but they may be even more prevalent than we think. You may be… Continue Reading Miscarriages: Knowing, Understanding, and Coping

The post Miscarriages: Knowing, Understanding, and Coping appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Prenatal Genetic Testing in Twin Pregnancy

Twiniversity — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

From the moment you find out you’re having twins, their health is likely your number one concern. While most babies are born healthy, your doctor may suggest prenatal genetic testing and screening for health conditions. Read on to learn more about these tests and how they can provide valuable insight into your twin pregnancy. Disclaimer: All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. What Is Prenatal Genetic Testing? Prenatal genetic testing gives parents-to-be a more complete picture of the health and development of their babies. Using screening and diagnostic techniques, these tests aim to offer more information about potential and existing genetic disorders. Risk factors such as maternal age, health, family history, and ethnicity can influence your baby’s chance of chromosomal abnormalities. Knowledge of your risk for these conditions and what to expect can help families prepare for their babies arrival. Some conditions that prenatal genetic testing screen for and diagnose include: Twin pregnancy carries higher risks and and can have more complications than singleton pregnancy. Therefore, you want to discuss with your doctor whether prenatal genetic testing is right for you. What Are the Types of Prenatal Genetic Testing? The thought that your unborn child might have a genetic disorder can cause anxiety for expectant parents. Thankfully, there are a few different types of prenatal genetic screenings and tests available for each stage of pregnancy. Coupled with routine monitoring of blood pressure and urine, prenatal genetic testing offers more information about the health of your babies. Prenatal Screening Tests Prenatal genetic screening tests offer insight into the likelihood that your baby has chromosomal abnormalities. Your obstetrician or fetal monitoring specialist will evaluate the results of genetic screening to determine if diagnostic testing is necessary. Ultrasound An important part of a healthy pregnancy, ultrasounds use sound waves to see your babies in the womb. Ultrasounds can also be used to diagnose birth defects and structural abnormalities. While each twin pregnancy is different most will have at least two screening ultrasounds: Carrier Screening A test for parents using a sample of blood, saliva, or cheek tissue, carrier screening evaluates the risk of inherited genetic conditions. Carrier screening can take place at any time, before or during pregnancy. You might consider carrier screening prior to pregnancy if you have a family history of a genetic condition. Nuchal Translucency Screening (NTS) The nuchal translucency screening takes place via ultrasound between weeks 10-14 of pregnancy. This scan measures the thickness of the nuchal fold, an area of fluid-filled tissue at the back of baby’s neck. These measurements determine if further testing is necessary to diagnose conditions such as Down syndrome and neural tube defects. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) During pregnancy, parts of baby’s DNA circulate in the mother’s bloodstream. Testing the mother’s blood for this cell-free DNA (cfDNA) can determine if the babies might carry genetic conditions. NIPTs, such as Harmony and Panorama, are offered as early as ten weeks gestation. These tests are less invasive than other genetic testing, requiring only a maternal blood test. Non-invasive prenatal testing may not be as accurate for dizygotic twin pregnancy due to imbalances in the contribution of cell-free DNA. As a result, it can be difficult to determine which twin has the health issue without further testing. This is not the case with monozygotic (identical) twin pregnancies as the babies share the same genetic make-up. Studies have also shown an increased risk of false positives in comparison to singleton pregnancies. Despite this, NIPT is recommended as a screening tool for multiples pregnancy to determine zygosity and screen for trisomy disorders. However, NIPT cannot be completed with triplets or higher-order multiples. Prenatal Diagnostic Tests Prenatal diagnostic tests diagnose genetic disorders through the sampling of cells from the womb and placenta. There are two types of diagnostic tests: amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. Amniocentesis Amniotic fluid surrounds babies in the womb, protecting them from injury and infection. This fluid also contains enzymes, proteins, hormones, and cells shed by the baby during development. When a screening test shows increased chances of health concerns your doctor may recommend an amniocentesis to confirm diagnosis. Although it is more invasive than screening tests due to the insertion of a needle into the abdomen, amniocentesis is safe and reliable. In most cases, it gives accurate diagnostic information about certain genetic disorders. Amniocentesis usually takes place between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy with results in 10-14 days. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) The chorionic villi are tiny projections of placental tissue containing genetic information about the baby. A small needle inserted into the abdomen or vagina harvests a sample of the chorionic villi to be tested. CVS can take place as early as 10 weeks gestation with results in less than 2 weeks. Although slightly riskier than amniocentesis, CVS is performed earlier giving parents more time to learn and prepare. What Are the Risks of Prenatal Genetic Testing for Twins? There are a few risks with prenatal diagnostic tests, specifically amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. The most common complications include cramping, pain, bleeding, increased risk for preterm labor, and less than 1% risk of miscarriage. These risks increase slightly with twins, specifically in a diamniotic pregnancy, as samples are taken from both babies. While the risks are small, complications can occur so it’s important to know ahead of time what to expect. Prenatal genetic screening and testing can lead to increased anxiety and fear over an unexpected diagnosis. It’s hard to learn your child has health issues at any time, but it can be better to know sooner than later. Although rare,… Continue Reading Prenatal Genetic Testing in Twin Pregnancy

The post Prenatal Genetic Testing in Twin Pregnancy appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Medicine During Pregnancy: Which Ones Are Really Safe?

Twiniversity — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 08:19:00 +0000

All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. Pregnancy can be all rainbows and sunshine but it can also be all nausea, headaches, and sickness. So, when sickness strikes (and it WILL) can you take anything to help? What medicine can be taken during pregnancy? What Happens if You Take Medicine During Pregnancy? If taken correctly (how much to take, how often to take it, how long to take it) some medications can be taken during pregnancy. Unfortunately, no medication, prescription, or over-the-counter (OTC) is considered 100 percent safe during pregnancy. Medication can cause harm during pregnancy by interfering with fetal development, damaging the placenta, increasing the risk of miscarriage, or premature birth. The amount of medication and frequency of use, as well as the gestational age of the fetus, will determine how harmful the medication can be. Be especially cautious in the first trimester. Avoid taking OTC medications during your first trimester (first 12 to 13 weeks of pregnancy) because that’s when the risk to your baby is highest. What Medicines Are Not Safe During Pregnancy? The rule about taking medicine during pregnancy is simple: always ask your doctor first. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications. According to www.webmd.com, you should avoid the following medications during pregnancy: Are There Alternatives for Unsafe Medicine During Pregnancy? Acetaminophen (instead of Aspirin or Ibuprofen) Acetaminophen is the most common pain reliever that doctors allow pregnant women to take. Even if you get the okay to take acetaminophen, you should take as little, for as short a time, as possible. Do not take if you are allergic, have liver problems, or if your health care provider decides it is unsafe for you. Prenatal Vitamins During pregnancy, your needs for vitamins, minerals, and trace elements increase significantly. Prenatal vitamins are multivitamins that are specially formulated to meet the increased demand for micronutrients during pregnancy. These vitamins are essential for fetal and placental growth. OTC Acne Treatments (Instead of Isotretinoin) Only small amounts of over-the-counter acne treatments are absorbed into the skin, making it unlikely that these treatments would pose a risk to a developing fetus. Skin treatments containing erythromycin (Erygel) and clindamycin (Cleocin T, Clindagel) are considered safe to use during pregnancy. Are Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medications Okay While Pregnant? The first 12 weeks of your pregnancy are an important time in your baby’s organ development. Because of this, many health care providers recommend avoiding all over-the-counter medications during this time. During your second trimester of pregnancy, it is safer to take over-the-counter medications. However, taking some medicines during pregnancy could impact your baby’s nervous system or birth weight during this time. Taking medications after the 28th week of pregnancy is also discouraged because they can impact your baby after birth. The medications can cross into your baby’s system. The baby may not handle it the same way you do, leading to things like breathing difficulties. Safe Over-The-Counter Medications to Take During Pregnancy Condition Safe OTC Medications to Take During Pregnancy* Allergy Antihistamines including:Cetirizine (Zyrtec)Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton, Efidac, Teldrin)Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)Doxylamine Fexofenadine (Allegra)Loratadine (Alavert, Allegra, Claritin, Loradamed, Tavist ND Allergy, Zyrtec )Nasal spray oxymetazoline (Afrin, Neo-Synephrine) (Check with your doctor first and limit use to a few days.)Steroid nasal spray (Flonase, Nasacort, Rhinocort) (Check with your doctor first, but over the counter sprays are generally safe.) Cold and Flu Robitussin (check which ones, some should not be used in 1st trimester), Trind-DM, Vicks Cough SyrupSaline nasal drops or sprayActifed, Dristan, Flonase, Nasocort, Neosynephrine*, Sudafed (Check with your doctor first. Do not use in first trimester.)Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Tylenol ColdWarm salt/water gargle*Do not take “SA” (sustained action) forms or “Multi-Symptom” forms of these drugs. Constipation Citrucil. ColaceFiberall/Fibercon MetamucilMilk of Magnesia Senekot Diarrhea For 24 hours, only after 12 weeks of pregnancy:ImodiumKaopectateParepectolin First Aid Ointment BacitracinJ & JNeosporin Headache Tylenol (acetaminophen) Heartburn Gaviscon MaaloxMylanta RiopanTitralac TUMs Hemorrhoids Anusol Preparation HTucks. Witch hazel Nausea and Vomiting Doxylamine (in combination with pyridoxine) EmetrexEmetrol (if not diabetic) Sea bandsVitamin B6 (100 mg tablet) Rashes Benadryl cream Caladryl lotion or creamHydrocortisone cream or ointment Oatmeal bath (Aveeno) Yeast Infection Monistat or TerazolDo not insert applicator too far *Please Note: No medication can be considered 100% safe to use during pregnancy. Photo: WebMD.com I Took Medicine Before I Knew I Was Pregnant. What Do I Do? Some medicines can be harmful when taken during pregnancy. Contact your health provider as soon as possible and be sure to share all the medications you are currently taking. Should I Stop Taking Medication While Pregnant? With some medications, the risk of not taking them may be more serious than the risk of taking the medicine during pregnancy. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication. Your doctor will weigh the benefit to you versus the potential risk to your baby when making their recommendations. Can I Take Folic Acid When Pregnant? According to the Center for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), women of reproductive age (late 20s and early 30s) should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day. Folic acid is very important because it can help prevent some major birth defects in your baby’s brain and spine. When taking folic acid, be sure to take it at the same time each day; morning or evening, and with a glass of water. If you forget to take your dose, just take it as soon as you remember. What Vitamins Help Prevent Miscarriage? Vitamin C and vitamin E were once thought to be important factors in reducing the risk of miscarriage. However, according to a study by St. Luke’s International University, Graduate School of Nursing Sciences, supplementing women… Continue Reading Medicine During Pregnancy: Which Ones Are Really Safe?

The post Medicine During Pregnancy: Which Ones Are Really Safe? appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Can I Stop Morning Sickness?

Twiniversity — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 17:37:02 +0000

Morning sickness is often the first, and most common sign many expecting moms experience when they become pregnant. It typically starts around the 6th week but can appear later in pregnancy and sometimes even stay through most of it. Pregnancy nausea can be extremely debilitating and hard to deal with for many women, often leading them to make unhealthy choices such as not eating or eating poorly causing issues for the expectant mom. Although it might seem like the world is ending as you sit with your face over a plastic bag waiting to puke for the fourth time in that hour, there are some things you try to do to alleviate your discomfort and that’s what we are here for today. Let’s break down the what’s, how’s and why’s of morning sickness and then we can jump into how to fix it’s. What is morning sickness? The term “morning sickness” is a bit misleading, because despite its name it, implies that nausea and vomiting may expectant moms experience are confined to one time of day or even just in the mornings. In fact, many women experience some degree of morning sickness throughout their entire pregnancy and not just in the day or night of the first trimester. However it is most common that nausea and vomiting occur first thing in the morning, but they can also happen at other times of the day. Some people call this condition “pregnancy-related motion sickness,” which may be more accurate than “morning sickness.” There are much more severe cases, which are called hyperemesis gravidarum which will require medicine and can cause additional risk. Why do you get morning sickness? No one knows exactly what causes morning sickness. However, there are several theories as to why this happens. One theory suggests that hormones released during early pregnancy cause an increase in serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin plays a role in regulating moods and feelings of well-being. When serotonin levels rise too high, they may trigger nausea and other unpleasant sensations. In the case of most morning sickness, it could be that your body is reacting to changes in hormone levels. Hormones are released during pregnancy and bring about many different bodily reactions. These hormones may trigger morning sickness because they affect the digestive system or how you process certain foods. Are there different types of morning sickness? There are two main types of morning sickness: hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) which has more severe symptoms, severe nausea, and vomiting while good ol’ morning sickness which most pregnant women experience with fairly typical nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. You might experience persistent vomiting in your first trimester which can happen with morning sickness. Nausea and vomiting can occur day or night and can cause dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss or gain, or other health problems. It can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition so you should never dismiss anything you are feeling during your pregnancy. If you have Hyperemesis gravidarum you’ll see that your severe morning sickness can cause malnutrition, weight loss, fatigue, muscle aches, and other symptoms more severe than the common morning sickness. This causes additional risk factors and may actually cause a pregnant mom to be admitted into the hospital for additional fluids IV fluids when necessary. Does severe morning sickness mean I’m pregnant with twins? No. morning sickness is not an accurate way to predict the number of babies you are carrying, even if it seems like a lot more than what’s normal. It also doesn’t mean that having morning sickness means your pregnancy will be high-risk or dangerous; morning sickness can happen at any time during pregnancy and no matter how many children you are carrying this pregnancy. How is morning sickness diagnosed? Your health care team evaluates the signs and symptoms of morning sickness during your pregnancy and those may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, heartburn, diarrhea, sensitivity to smells, decreased appetite, decreased urination. Seek treatment right away regardless of what time of the day you are experiencing these symptoms. Now you might not experience nausea AND vomiting, you may experience nausea OR vomiting. Not everyone has both in their pregnancy. Symptoms of Morning Sickness Symptoms of morning sickness typically begin when you’re around 6 weeks pregnant but some mothers find there’s a nausea boost between seven weeks and 9 weeks. The annoying pregnancy symptom that is morning sickness most usually disappears at the beginning of the second trimester, around 12 weeks. There’s no surefire way to prevent morning sickness, but you might want to start monitoring if there are certain triggers that make it worse. Also, if this isn’t your first rodeo and you’ve had a previous pregnancy and did experience morning sickness, guess what, you can expect it again. How long does morning sickness last? Nausea generally subsides around week 12 to 16 of pregnancy. Symptoms typically appear worst between weeks 10 to 16. Some women have symptoms even into the second trimester. Occasionally people may experience morning sickness during their pregnancy especially those pregnant with twins. For pregnant women, the symptoms may include vomiting and nausea. If morning sickness persists, you may have a more severe issue called hyperemesis gravidarum which will require more medical intervention. There is no typical time for how long hyperemesis gravidarum or general nausea can last in pregnancy. Sometimes morning sickness can last a few minutes, sometimes hours. I know. Don’t hate us, it stinks. Is it Hyperemesis Gravidarum? Hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy would be diagnosed by your doctor because you are experiencing severe morning sickness. If you have Hyperemesis gravidarum you may also have an electrolyte imbalance and this may need to be treated with medicine. Many women who experience this in their pregnancy have to take a break from work and seek advice from their doctor on if going on some type of short-term disability is necessary. Many times the treatment might be slight and require you to have visits with a nutritionist to go… Continue Reading Can I Stop Morning Sickness?

The post Can I Stop Morning Sickness? appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.

Vanishing Twin: Why it Happens and Why You’re Not to Blame

Twiniversity — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 08:07:00 +0000

Have you been told you’re suffering from vanishing twin syndrome? Get the answers to all of your questions here. Learning you are suffering from vanishing twin syndrome is painful and confusing. With the swipe of an ultrasound wand, your world and pregnancy have changed forever. We’re here for you at Twiniversity. Read on to learn more about this rare complication of multiples pregnancy including how it happens, and, most importantly, why you are not to blame. Disclaimer: All content on this website, including medical opinions and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others. What is Vanishing Twin Syndrome? Vanishing twin syndrome occurs when a woman is confirmed to be carrying twins by ultrasound and then spontaneously loses one. At the next ultrasound, there is only a single baby. Essentially, one embryo stops developing and is absorbed by either the surviving twin, the placenta, or the mother. Vanishing twin syndrome can occur in twin, triplet, or higher-order multiples pregnancies. First recognized in 1945 by Walter Stoeckel, this rare complication of multiples pregnancy is most commonly detected via ultrasound before week 12 of pregnancy. A vanishing twin is different from other twin prenatal complications in that it typically does not cause issues for the surviving twin. It’s important to note that you must have confirmed a twin pregnancy in order to receive this diagnosis. Even if you had a feeling you might be carrying twins, an ultrasound confirming twins is required to classify your singleton pregnancy as vanishing twin syndrome. This is also not the same thing as losing one twin later on in pregnancy. What Causes a Twin to Vanish? Vanishing twin syndrome is the spontaneous miscarriage of just one embryo, and as such, it is most likely caused by chromosomal complications. In contrast to a typical miscarriage, though, you are still pregnant after suffering from a vanishing twin miscarriage. Nearly 50 percent of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, not by anything the parents have done. This is important to remember, as there is likely little you can do to prevent vanishing twin syndrome. As such, it’s important not to blame yourself. Some research suggests that there may be an increase in vanishing twin syndrome due to procedures such as in vitro fertilization. How Common is Vanishing Twin Syndrome? The exact prevalence of Vanishing Twin Syndrome is challenging to determine because many cases go undetected, especially in pregnancies that are not closely monitored through ultrasound. Some estimates suggest that it occurs in 20% to 30% of multifetal pregnancies, but the actual prevalence may be higher since some cases go unnoticed. Factors such as advancements in ultrasound technology and increased monitoring during pregnancy have contributed to the identification of more cases of Vanishing Twin Syndrome in recent years. As medical technology continues to advance, our understanding of the frequency and causes of this phenomenon may become more accurate. How Is a Vanishing Twin Diagnosed? Before ultrasounds, it was possible to diagnose vanishing twin syndrome through an examination of the placenta. Nowadays, vanishing twin syndrome is most commonly diagnosed through two separate ultrasounds. The first, usually completed around weeks 7-8 of pregnancy, shows two (or more) distinct fetuses, indicating twins or multiples. The second ultrasound, or heartbeat Doppler, typically taking place around 12-15 weeks, shows only one embryo. Are There Any Symptoms to Watch For? The only way to know if you are suffering from this type of loss is through an ultrasound. Most commonly, a sudden decrease in hCG levels detected in a blood test will prompt your provider to follow up with an ultrasound to confirm a vanishing twin. That said, there are a few symptoms that you should report to your doctor for closer examination. If you experience bleeding, uterine cramps, a sudden decrease in pregnancy symptoms, or pelvic pain you should contact your healthcare provider. Do you Bleed with Vanishing Twin Syndrome? Bleeding is not always a symptom of Vanishing Twin Syndrome, and the occurrence of bleeding can vary from case to case. In some instances, a woman may experience vaginal bleeding or spotting when one of the embryos is absorbed or miscarried, but it’s not a universal symptom. Keep in mind that bleeding during pregnancy can have various causes, and it doesn’t necessarily indicate Vanishing Twin Syndrome. If you’re pregnant and experiencing bleeding or spotting, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. They can conduct examinations, such as ultrasound scans, to assess the well-being of the pregnancy and identify any potential issues. What are the possible consequences of Vanishing Twin Syndrome? There are rarely consequences as a result of vanishing twin syndrome for the surviving twin or the mother. That said, one critical consequence can be the mothers’ mental health after losing one twin. Self-care will be critical in dealing with feelings of sadness, guilt, and anger in the months following the diagnosis. Be aware of any signs of depression or increased anxiety after a vanishing twin loss and be sure to seek professional help. Vanishing twin can also cause a unique feeling of guilt during the rest of the pregnancy. After a miscarriage of just one twin, you may feel the typical feelings of sadness and anger. However, it is completely normal to have feelings of relief and excitement for the surviving twin. It is absolutely vital that mothers who are dealing with this news find support. Expecting moms should surround themselves with those who will honor their grief while holding space for the happiness of the new baby. In the case of a later loss of a twin that is not absorbed, close monitoring and… Continue Reading Vanishing Twin: Why it Happens and Why You’re Not to Blame

The post Vanishing Twin: Why it Happens and Why You’re Not to Blame appeared first on Twiniversity #1 Parenting Twins Site.