Sometimes life gives us not one baby, but two. Two heartbeats that we can see directly with the first ultrasound and know: they are going to be twins! Currently, 1.6 million pairs of twins are born worldwide every year.
But not all twins are the same. There are differences. The biggest and most significant is the distinction between identical twins and fraternal twins.
In this article you will find information about twins:
- Fraternal twins and identical twins
- How do twins happen?
- How do you know you're having twins?
- Pregnancy with twins
- The birth of twins
- Can you breastfeed twins?
- Worth knowing: From parental leave to child benefit
Fraternal twins
About 75% of twins are fraternal and so-called dizygotic twins. They are created from two eggs and are fertilized by two different sperm, which means that they have different genetic material. Fertilization takes place more or less simultaneously and in one cycle.
Both embryos have their own amniotic cavity and placenta. In technical jargon, this is called dichorial diamniot.
Identical twins
Identical twins are about 25% percent of all twins, here we speak of monozygotic twins. They are created from an egg cell that is fertilized by a sperm cell and divides into two cell nuclei after fertilization. Both cell nuclei migrate to the uterus, where both embryos then implant. The genetic material is identical in both.
There are three, or four to be exact, different forms of monozygotic twins:
Monochorial diamniotic twin pregnancy
1 placenta, 2 amniotic cavities
They are monochorionic twins when the fertilized egg only divides after implantation in the uterus. As a result, only one placenta develops, which is shared by both embryos. Nevertheless, each has its own amniotic cavity. This is the most common form of identical twins, at about 65%.
Since both embryos share a placenta, complications can occur during this pregnancy, such as an undersupply of the twins. Monochorionic pregnancies are monitored particularly closely in order to identify and treat possible risks at an early stage.
Dichorial diamniote twin pregnancy
2 placentas, 2 amniotic cavities
35% of identical twins are dichorial diamniot. This means that both embryos have their own placenta and are each surrounded by their own membrane (amnion and chorion).
Monochorial monoamniotic twins
1 placenta, 1 amniotic cavity
In this twin pregnancy, both fetuses share an amniotic cavity and a placenta. This is rare and accounts for only one percent of identical twin pregnancies. Such a pregnancy carries an increased risk due to umbilical cord complications, for example.
Siamese twins
Siamese twins are also monochorial monoamniotic twins that share a placenta and an amniotic cavity. In addition, these fetuses are fused with each other to varying degrees. Siamese twins make up about 0.1% of all twins. Overall, however, they are extremely rare and, according to specialist literature, twins are born together in one in a million births.
How do twins happen?
The frequency of multiples due to spontaneous conception is about 1.18%. The probability of having multiples increases from the age of 35. From this age of the woman, there may be more frequent ovulation per cycle. In addition, artificial insemination or fertility treatments increase with age, often fertilizing several eggs.
Identical twins are a random product of nature, so they say. Fraternal twins are more common in some families. So a hereditary factor also plays a role here.
How do you know you're having twins?
Nowadays, twin pregnancies can be detected very early by ultrasound. You will usually find out about this directly at your first pregnancy check-up.
Some parents have wished for twins and some, well, may be shocked and shocked by this news at first. And that's perfectly okay. Since you find out about it so early, you have time to get used to the idea. And to prepare yourself for the fact that not just one little person, but two will take up a part of your life.
Pregnant with twins!
If you have learned that you are expecting twins, it is best to take care of a midwife directly. She can stand by your side, discuss worries with you and give you answers to all the many questions.
A twin pregnancy is always classified by doctors as a high-risk pregnancy - you don't have to worry about that, it just means that you will be examined more closely by your gynecologist. How often and at what intervals pregnancy checks take place depends on whether you have identical or fraternal twins.
The best tip is always: stay relaxed. Don't worry. Many twin pregnancies proceed completely normally and without complications. Even as an expectant mother of twins, you can have a normal pregnancy and a vaginal birth.
Pregnancy with twins
Due to the double burden, your body is put under more strain than during a simple pregnancy. Two babies mean twice the weight, which puts a lot of strain on your pelvic floor and muscles in certain areas. Since the baby bump also gets bigger than with just one baby, your belly is also under greater stretching. Weight gain is also understandably higher than in a singleton pregnancy.
Some women suffer more from nausea during a twin pregnancy. This is due to the increased hormone secretion, which usually decreases at the end of the third month.
Twin pregnancy = high-risk pregnancy?
Twin pregnancies are therefore classified as high-risk pregnancies because the mother has an increased risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure), water retention or premature births can occur.
On the other hand, there may also be specific risks for the twins. Possible complications can include fetofetal transfusion syndrome (FFTS) or growth retardation of a twin.
Your gynecologist and midwife will regularly check the development of your children and, of course, your well-being. And take care of you in the best possible way, according to your pregnancy.
The birth of twins
The best way to prepare for the birth is best to discuss with your midwife. There are extra birth preparation courses for twin parents. Maybe there are also meetings in your region where you can exchange ideas with other twin parents.
In the case of twins, it is advisable to plan and prepare everything a little earlier, as they are often born a little earlier. Think about what purchases you need in good time and have the hospital bag at hand (link article Hospital bag).
Most twins are often born before the calculated due date, often around the 37th week of pregnancy. So it's best to arrange a birth planning consultation at the clinic where you want to give birth at an early stage. This is a wonderful opportunity to discuss all the possibilities of your upcoming birth with gynaecologists and midwives on site and to clarify wishes and questions.
Is vaginal birth possible for twins?
Basically: yes. A vaginal birth is also possible with twins. If you are expecting triplets or more babies, you will be advised to have a planned cesarean section in most cases. With twins, it depends on your situation and condition.
Requirements for a vaginal birth in twins:
- Uncomplicated diaminal twin pregnancy in which each baby has its own amniotic cavity.
- As a mom, you should be healthy and at least in the 32nd week of pregnancy (SSW).
- The leading baby must lie in skull position, i.e. with head down.
- The twins have no relevant growth difference in ultrasound.
If these conditions are met, there is nothing to stop you from trying a vaginal birth if you feel good about it.
Will twins be fetched earlier?
Depending on the course of the pregnancy, the birth may be induced before the calculated date (ET). Especially if the twins share a placenta, i.e. it is a monochorionic twin pregnancy. In this case, a birth is usually sought between the 34th and 37th week of pregnancy. This avoids the risk of an undersupply for a twin, which increases especially in the last weeks of pregnancy.
In a mochochorial monoamniotic twin pregnancy, in which your babies share an amniotic cavity and a placenta, a planned caesarean section is usually performed around the 32nd to 34th week of pregnancy. Since both children are in an amniotic sac, the risk of umbilical cord knotting will otherwise be too high.
Can you breastfeed twins?
A common concern of expectant twin mothers is breastfeeding. Can you breastfeed fully with two babies? Is that possible? And will the milk be enough?
Breastfeeding twins is possible! This can even work with triplets. Your body can produce enough breast milk and functions according to the supply-demand principle.
But the most important question in my opinion is: Do you WANT to breastfeed your twins? Does it fit your situation? Is it worth the time and the "burden" to you? If so, then wonderful – try it out and see how you get into the groove. And if not, that's perfectly fine. Take the pressure off yourself and allow yourself to handle things the way they feel right for you. Too high expectations and imaginary constraints have never helped anyone. ;)
If you want to breastfeed, be sure to get help and advice from your midwife or a lactation consultant. Good breastfeeding management is super important for twins - and can look very different and individual.
For example, some women advocate synchronous breastfeeding of babies, others advise against it. Both can have advantages and disadvantages:
Breastfeeding twins: Breastfeeding babies one after the other
If you breastfeed your twins one after the other and not (always) in parallel, your babies will get milk according to their individual hunger and needs. Especially as a beginner breastfeeding, alternating breastfeeding is easier. This allows you to concentrate on a baby and pay attention more easily to the optimal latching technique.
The disadvantage of single breastfeeding is that it takes twice as long. In addition, it can happen that both babies are hungry at the same time and want to get to the breast as soon as possible.
Breastfeeding twins at the same time
You can try to synchronize your babies and breastfeed them as often as possible at the same time. There are different breastfeeding positions where you can put twins on at the same time. Be sure to get help from your midwife. It takes some practice to breastfeed two babies at the same time and to attach them correctly to the breast. A good nursing pillow is helpful.
The big advantage of synchronous breastfeeding is the less time required. In addition, a baby who is rather weak in sucking benefits from parallel breastfeeding, as the stronger baby triggers the milk ejection reflex through its strong sucking. The disadvantage is that it is often not so easy to find a good breastfeeding rhythm that suits both babies and does justice to everyone.
Conclusion: What is the best way to breastfeed twins?
In the end, you don't have to decide on a variant, but can try everything that suits you and you. Feel free to test different variants and rhythms.
The exchange with other twin mothers is usually also very good - network and get inspired. And: be sure to pay attention to your needs: What do you need? What is good for you? Let your confidence grow that you, you and your babies will find out together more and more what works best for you.
Interesting facts for twins and twin pregnancies
Maternity protection in the case of twin pregnancies
In Germany, the mother's apron begins six weeks before the calculated date of delivery, just like in singleton pregnancies. However, it is extended to twelve weeks after birth instead of eight. If your baby is born before the calculated date, which is often the case with twins, you don't lose this time, but it is added to it.
Aftercare by the midwife
Aftercare by the midwife can be extended in the case of twins and is fully covered by most health insurance companies. Check with your insurance company in advance.
For twins, you also have the option of applying for domestic help through your health insurance company. It is also best to find out about this before the birth.
Parental leave for twins
Since parental leave is calculated per child, parents of twins are entitled to up to six years of parental leave in total. The prerequisite for this is that at least twelve months of parental leave are taken per child within the first three years of life. For you as twin parents, this means that at least 24 months of parental leave must be taken by the third birthday of the twins.
Parental allowance for twins
Although there is double parental leave, there is no double parental allowance. For twins, however, you will receive a multiple birth supplement:
According to § 2a of the Federal Parental Allowance and Parental Leave Act (BEEG), the following applies: "In the case of twins, there is only an entitlement to the simple parental allowance rate plus 300 euros multiple birth allowance per month (in the case of parental allowance plus: 150 euros per month). This is to cover additional expenses incurred for baby food, diapers and the like with two children."
Child benefit for twins
Child benefit is paid per child. Currently, you receive 250 euros per month for each eligible child, regardless of your income. Child benefit can only be applied for by one parent.
Your twins and you
Maybe you had planned it differently. You may feel overwhelmed at first with the news about twins. And maybe that's what you've always wanted. One thing is certain: these two little people have chosen you as their parents. And they will enrich your life.
I wish you all the best for this exciting time! And always remember: stay relaxed. There is no such thing as perfect and you, you will master it wonderfully!
All the best, your baybies midwife Ana
Source: https://www.amboss.com/de/wissen/Mehrlingsschwangerschaft#Zc2fa51b05e06fe067
Posting Komentar untuk "Gemini – From pregnancy to birth to breastfeeding"