If you’re pregnant and wondering whether you’re carrying twins, you’re not alone. While multiple pregnancies are less common than singleton pregnancies, they still occur in approximately 1 in every 80 pregnancies. If you’re experiencing certain symptoms or have certain risk factors, you may be more likely to be carrying twins. Here are some of the signs that you may be pregnant with twins:
Elevated HCG levels
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that is produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant with twins tend to have higher levels of HCG than women who are pregnant with a single baby. Your healthcare provider will check your HCG levels during your first prenatal visit to determine if they are within a normal range.
Extreme Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of pregnancy, but women who are carrying twins tend to experience more extreme fatigue than those carrying a single baby. This is due to the increased demands on your body to support two growing fetuses.
Severe Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is also a common symptom of pregnancy, but women who are carrying twins tend to experience more severe morning sickness than those carrying a single baby. This is also due to the increased demands on your body.
Rapid Weight Gain
Women who are carrying twins tend to gain weight more rapidly than those carrying a single baby. This is because your body needs to support the growth and development of two fetuses instead of one.
Measuring Large for Gestational Age
During your prenatal visits, your healthcare provider will measure the size of your uterus. Women who are carrying twins tend to measure larger for gestational age than those carrying a single baby. Your healthcare provider may also recommend an ultrasound to confirm the number of fetuses and estimate their gestational age.
Increased Fetal Movement
Women who are carrying twins tend to feel more fetal movement than those carrying a single baby. This is because there are two fetuses moving around in your uterus instead of one.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or have certain risk factors for a multiple pregnancy, your healthcare provider may recommend an ultrasound to confirm the number of fetuses. While carrying twins can be challenging, it’s also a special experience that many parents cherish. Make sure to take care of yourself and your growing babies, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
