TWIN BIRTH: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MULTIPLE BIRTH

Childbirth is a long-awaited moment during pregnancy, especially in the final stretch, but also, it is one of the most doubts and fears women can feel. Regularly these fears appear in new mothers, but also, they are frequent in those who expect twins or twins for the first time.

Therefore, today we want to share information about this type of birth, whether you expect twins, twins or more babies, and have in your hands all you need to know about multiple birth.

How long is a multiple pregnancy?

A pregnancy in which two or more babies are expected has a higher risk of terminating preterm birth. Unlike those in which only one baby is expected and ideally reach 40 weeks, in a multiple pregnancy the duration is shorter.

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Usually, in the case of a twin pregnancy where everything goes well the average duration is 37 weeks, a very ideal duration to give birth according to studies, while in triplets the duration of pregnancy can be shortened even more, the average being 34 weeks, and in the case of quadruplets of 32 weeks.

During the last weeks It is very important to attend all medical appointments and follow the doctor's instructions, to ensure that babies are developing well and there are no complications, because in a multiple pregnancy the probability of these increases.

Vaginal birth or caesarean section?

Previously it was thought that twin or multiple births should always be by caesarean section, but studies conducted in recent years have shown that a multiple pregnancy does not have to end in caesarean section.

In the case of Twins, for example, a vaginal birth is safer for them than a C-section, because at birth vaginally, the risk of natal morbidity was much lower for both babies.

Another study in twin pregnancies found that Caesarean section really does not provide any benefit compared to vaginal delivery, and that does not represent a significant increase or decrease in the risk of fetal or neonatal death compared to vaginal delivery.

Therefore, if the pregnancy passes normally, without complications and if the first baby is fitted (that is, with the head down and ready to be born), a vaginal delivery will be the best option. Caesarean section should be performed only in case of an emergency or if a complication occurs.

Most frequent complications

Just as in the pregnancy of twins the risk of presenting a complication such as premature birth or low birth weight is higher than in a simple pregnancy, also there is a greater chance of complications before or during childbirth. These are the most frequent:

Fetal position. As we mentioned, one of the conditions to try a vaginal birth in case of multiple pregnancy is that the first baby is placed correctly. If one or both babies are pierced and not in the proper position, it is most likely that a C-section should be performed.
Umbilical cords tangled or braided. This happens particularly in babies of a MoMo pregnancy (monoamniotic monochorionic), because when sharing the placenta and the amniotic sac there is a greater risk that the umbilical cords become intertwined. In this type of pregnancy, a C-section is required.
Cord Compression Related to the previous point, this is also a possible complication of a pregnancy and multiple birth, since when moving both babies it is possible that one of them compresses one of the cords, preventing the passage of blood, oxygen and nutrients.
Complications of the placenta. As in a simple pregnancy, some complications of the placenta may occur, such as placenta previa (when it is implanted over the internal cervical orifice, in the lower part of the uterus) and placental abruption, a serious condition that can occur when the First baby is already born, but the second one is not.

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The duration of the birth of twins

Although the phases of childbirth are the same in single and multiple pregnancies, the duration of a birth varies greatly from one woman to another and from one pregnancy to another, regardless of whether a baby or more is expected.

The fact of being a multiple pregnancy does not mean that the delivery in general will be longerHowever, the phase of expulsion will be more extensive and will take twice, because it is two babies born.

In the case of a vaginal delivery, the interval between the birth of the first and second babies is usually less than one hour. In case of further delay, the doctor must make a decision and depending on the situation of mother and baby, a C-section will be performed.

On very particular occasions and under certain circumstances, deferred birth may occur, that is, that babies are born on different days. This can happen naturally, when contractions stop after the birth of the first baby (which is very, very rare but has happened), or, for medical reasons, such as improving the prognosis of the second baby in case of a birth premature.

In all cases, the risks and benefits should be analyzed by medical staff, who will make the best decision for mother and children.

Tips to prepare for a multiple birth

The time of delivery is one that can scare or make many women nervous, and in the case of those who expect more than one baby, the doubts and fears are usually greater. Therefore, it is important to prepare properly for a multiple birth and thus do everything possible to enjoy the birth of your babies.

Something that helps a lot is have a support network. Whether your partner or family, being accompanied during the time of delivery will make you feel calmer by having someone who offers you continuous support nearby.

You can also have several options lists that help you relax when the big day comes, such as listening to soft music or practicing some breathing or relaxation technique.

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And of course, the most important thing is to have a doctor you trust and that makes you feel safe. Do not be afraid to ask all the questions you deem necessary and ask him to explain all the possible scenarios that may arise during childbirth, so that you are prepared beforehand in case you have to make decisions or change the initial plan.

We hope that with this information about multiple births, it will help you know what to expect and answer your questions about twin birth.

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