Key Differences Between Singleton and Twin Pregnancies

 Singleton and Twin Pregnancies

There are so many misconceptions about pregnancies in general despite the availability of information at a thumb’s distance. And if it is a twin pregnancy, then the bar of misconceptions goes even higher. 

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Starting from physical appearance to nurturing, physical activities, to overall care as a whole, there are many misconceptions flying around about twin pregnancies. For starters, many think that singleton pregnancy is less stressful compared to twin pregnancy. But the fact is more or less they are almost the same.  

Differences between a singleton pregnancy and a twin

So, how is a twin pregnancy different from a singleton pregnancy? To answer the question in simple words, not so different! To know more, continue reading the blog to understand the differences and most importantly the common misconceptions around them.

The soon-to-be-mothers and the families will be informed about the twin pregnancies so that they take care that pacifies the amplified needs of the twins. 

Physical appearance - Probably the first sign you could notice of twins. The belly may look bigger after some days into the pregnancy.

• Usually, a twin’s belly is at least 15-20% bigger than the singleton. But this is not necessarily true in every case. There are mothers who carry twins at the size of a single pregnancy.

• The noticeable changes occur only during the 4th or 5th month of the pregnancy and the twin moms feel the belly is heavier, naturally.

• This heaviness can lead to other pregnancy complications such as swollen legs, backache, tiredness, and so on.

• Not just the mother but the babies will also feel the stress in the case of the twin pregnancy.  

Nutritional differences - It is common to see soon-to-be-moms eating more than what they used to. If they are carrying twins, the nutritional needs are doubled up, again naturally. 

• Eating healthy is necessary as the mother is not just eating for herself but also for the baby. This will be increased as she is carrying twins.

• The mother needs to take additional nutrition for the three in total and the food habits will differ for a twin pregnant compared to a single pregnant.

• Sometimes the mom may crave for foods that she is not supposed to consume. This needs to be avoided as much as possible.

• However, stick to the diet menu given by your nutritionist and consume a bit more than what the mother could so that it suffices for the three. 

Mood differences - Mood changes are typical in pregnant women and the hormonal imbalances are the ones to blame.

• Mood swings are common in pregnant ladies. However, agitation, frustration, and anger could be seen as amplified in a twin mother. 

• Denying foods that she wants to eat, preventing her from staying up, or from sleeping will only be the triggers but the main culprit behind the mood swings are the spiking up hormonal imbalances

• Also, few women think that twin pregnancies are more riskier than the singleton. This may lead to additional stress that is unnecessary

• Even though twin pregnancies have a few complications involved than the singleton, the risks are only a little high, which could be addressed with the best gynec treatment and care. 

Sleep differences - Lack of sleep is one of the major concerns for pregnant women. It could be because of the hormones during the initial days of pregnancy or due to stress in the latter days. 

• There is another reason for sleep depravity in pregnant women - Unable to find the right sleeping posture.

• Because of the increased size of the belly, the person may find it difficult to find a comfortable posture. This issue may be amplified in a twin pregnancy.

• There are products like wedge pillow, memory foam beds, and gel pillows to ease this issue.

• Another reason for sleeplessness could be the stress. Try to involve in pregnancy yoga, meditation, and physical activities to alleviate stress.

Other than that, twin pregnants may feel slightly increased morning sickness, nausea, and joint pains. Also, be mindful that the gestation of 9 months does not necessarily last for 9 months in twin pregnants. Be aware of the pre and post-childbirth differences for a healthy mom and baby.