For information about weeks 1 through 11 of twin or multiple pregnancies, tap here.
At 14 weeks, you’re probably starting to feel a bit better overall. For most people, morning sickness begins to subside by now, but it’s normal for it to linger a bit longer. You’ve also had a bit of time to process the idea that you’re welcoming more than one baby into the world, which you’re going to be amazing at, by the way!
Your babies are filling out, and you may notice some changes in your body, too. If you haven’t switched over to maternity clothes yet, it will likely be time to make the transition soon. Let’s look at what else is going on with you and your little ones this week.
How are your babies?
In a word: busy! Their brain development is well underway, which means they’re beginning to work their facial muscles to form adorable little expressions. Hopefully, you’ll catch some during your next ultrasound.
With their brain impulses firing away, they’ve also learned to make sucking and chewing motions. In fact, if their thumbs make it near their mouths, there’s a good chance they’ll start latching onto them. What’s cuter than that?
Another significant development this week is that your babies’ kidneys have begun functioning. Their kidneys will produce urine and maintain their bodies’ electrolyte levels even in utero.
They now weigh about 1.5 ounces — about the size of a peach, and just as sweet!
What’s up with you these days?
Hopefully, your energy levels that had likely been zapped during the first trimester are revving up again. You’re probably feeling less nauseous and fatigued and more eager to check some items off your to-do list.
Remember, it’s never too early to start thinking about your babies’ arrival, especially when you’re expecting multiples. Parents of multiples report it can be more difficult to find childcare, so begin considering your options now to be best prepared when your babies make their debut.
Now is also a great time to explore your employer’s FMLA and maternity leave policies, if applicable. You’ll want to know your company’s guidelines well in advance to be clear on the expectations after you deliver and to ask for clarification on anything that might be confusing.
Even if you’ve already joined a group for expectant parents, it may be helpful to seek out a group specifically for parents who are expecting multiples. Carrying twins or more poses unique challenges (and joys), and it’s always beneficial to connect with others who understand your experience.
Will testing take place this week?
Unlikely. If you opted into first-trimester screening, you’re probably in the clear. However, testing for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome and trisomy 18 is performed between weeks 11 and 14, so if you haven’t had it already, speak to your provider about whether or not this screening test should be done this week. The screening consists of a blood draw and an ultrasound.
Otherwise, sit back and relax! The second trimester is the “sweet spot” for most pregnancies, and we hope you’re feeling great as you continue growing your sweet little bundles.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Multifetal gestation: Twin, triplet, and higher order multifetal pregnancies.” National Guideline Clearinghouse. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, May 2014. Retrieved May 15 2021.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Twin pregnancy: What multiples mean for mom.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, December 13 2014. Retrieved May 15 2021. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/twin-pregnancy/art-20048161.
- “FAQ: Multiple pregnancy.” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, July 2015. Retrieved May 15 2021.
