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Frequently Asked Questions about twins.

see also...

Introduction

The differences between identical and fraternal twins

Explanation of cellular division in twins

Frequently Asked Questions about twins

The implications of a multiple pregnancy

Possible complications in a multiple pregnancy

 

How are triplets or quads made?

Triplets, quads or a higher number in a multiple birth can be fraternal, identical or a combination of both.  It is possible for example for two eggs to be fertilised and for one of them to further split off into twins (thus giving 3 babies).  Many possible combinations are possible but they are very much more rare than twins under natural conception.

 

Triplets, quads or more are becoming more common simply because of the

increase in the use of fertility treatments such as IVF treatment where pre-fertilised eggs are artificially introduced into the uterus.  The introduction of more than one fertilised egg can increase the chances of a pregnancy, however if more than three are used then the chances of multiple pregnancies are higher along with the related complications and risks.

 

How often do multiple pregnancies occur?

Under natural conception, twins occur in about 1% to 1.2% of pregnancies.  Triplets occur in about 0.015% of pregnancies, quads in about 0.0002% and quintuplets in about 0.000002% of natural pregnancies.

 

Which will be the eldest child?

The first born.

 

What are the chances of identical twins versus fraternal?

About one third (33%) of twins are identical whilst the other 66% are fraternal.

 

When will I find out if there is more than one baby?

Early symptoms of multiple pregnancy can include excessive morning sickness, fatigue, frequent peeing or over-size belly for gestational age.  A Doppler device during a pre-natal doctor's visit may pick up more than one heartbeat.  The 'triple test' can detect about 50% of twins.  If multiple pregnancy is suspected, an early ultrasound examination will be ordered.  Ultrasound examinations can provide clear confirmation of a multiple pregnancy.

 

When will I know if they are identical or non-identical twins?

In some cases, you can know with an ultrasound exam whether there are identical or fraternal twins present.  For example, if one is found to be a girl and the other a boy then they are fraternal twins.  If there is only one amniotic sac, then they are definitely identical twins.  Except for these cases, the only way to find out the answer for sure is to wait until after the birth.

 

Do twins "run in the family"?

Identical twinning does not usually run in the family, however fraternal twinning tendencies can be passed on from mother to daughter.  African cultures tend to have a higher rate of fraternal twinning passed on genetically whilst South-East Asian families tend to experience very little twinning throughout their ancestry.

 

Does the mother get more time off work with twins?

In most countries in the western world, the maternity leave allowances are greater for multiple pregnancies.  This is to allow for bed-rest towards the end of the term and some extra time afterwards to accommodate two new babies instead of one.

 

What will the birth weight of a twin be?

A mono-foetal pregnancy has an average birth weight of about 3Kg.  With twins, the average is about 2.7Kg.

 

see also...

Introduction

The differences between identical and fraternal twins

Explanation of cellular division in twins

Frequently Asked Questions about twins

The implications of a multiple pregnancy

Possible complications in a multiple pregnancy

 

 

 

 

 

 

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