What are the chances of multiple birth pregnancy?

Generally human multiple births take place naturally. On the other hand, fertility drugs prescribed as part of the fertility treatment may possibly lead to multiple birth pregnancy. Studies suggest that a number of multiple births have increased in number over the past several years. Though birth of twins as well as triplets is quite common, cases of quadruplets, quintuplets, sextuplets are very rare. The world's first surviving septuplets were born in the year 1997.

Family history of fraternal twins raises the chances of bearing multiples. History of multiples on maternal side may possibly increase the chances even more. If you are on fertility drugs then there are higher chances of multiple births. If the mother's uterus is larger in size than normal, she is most likely to have multiples. Ultrasound testing is recommended if you are suspecting a multiple birth pregnancy.

Delivering multiple babies

A mother is quite likely to face complications while giving birth to more than one baby. The time gap between the deliveries of 2 babies is not more than an hour if it is a vaginal birth. In this case, the size of the each fetus is smaller as compared to the single pregnancy. A normal vaginal birth is certainly possible in a multiple birth pregnancy.

Following are the various possible risks in carrying multiples:

• Risk of c-section delivery

  The risk of Caesarean is greater if a mother is carrying multiples as compared to a normal pregnancy. The position of the first twin decides whether you need a c-section delivery or not. Carrying multiples puts more pressure on the uterus as compared to single birth pregnancy. Preparing yourself for the pregnancy by eating well and following good nutrition plan definitely helps to decrease the risk of c-section even if you are carrying twins or more.

• Risk of premature delivery

  Mother carrying multiples faces the risk of premature delivery. Labour resulting in premature birth may lead to more health challenges for newborns. Mothers of multiples are very likely to experience preterm labour. Fortunately, the advancement of science and technology has created hope for the premature babies. Preemies have the ability to overcome complications due to advancement in medical technologies.

• Risk of gestational diabetes

  If to-be-moms are carrying multiples they are likely to face gestational diabetes. Carrying more than one baby increases the hormone levels. These increased levels of hormones interfere with the ability of the body to process insulin. Thankfully, gestational diabetes does not carry any potential health risks for mother or baby. It can be kept under control with proper diet. Gestational diabetes is only temporary.

• Risk of miscarriage

  Some parents decide to abort one or more babies if the mother is carrying triplets or more. Although it is a highly subjective decision, it reduces the later complications as well as health risks. The possibility of miscarriage is higher if a mother is carrying triplets or more. A thorough discussion with the doctor and your partner will help you to recognize benefits as well as the risks associated with multiple pregnancies.

These are some common complications which a mother carrying twins or more may face. A mother can also confront other complications, for instance, heart ailments, anemia, high blood pressure, and digestive problems.

Maintaining proper diet, visiting your doctor or health care provider regularly for check-ups and taking all possible precautions to prevent risks will help a lot incase you are carrying multiples. In many cultures, delivering twins or more babies is considered as a blessing. Enjoy your first moments with your babies and be prepared to take up the challenge of parenting these little wonders!