For information about weeks 1 through 11 of twin or multiple pregnancies, tap here.
You’re hitting the “sweet spot” of your pregnancy when you’re (hopefully) over morning sickness and not yet feeling too uncomfortable. The second trimester is typically the perfect time to get some planning done for your upcoming arrivals, which is the most exciting part of pregnancy for many expectant parents.
Your babies are changing rapidly, and you’re probably noticing some changes in your own body, too. So, what’s going on with you and your little ones this week? Let’s dive in and take a look!
How are your babies?
Your babies are starting to develop adorable features you’ll soon get to marvel at in person. While their hair has yet to come in, they’re developing hair patterns on their skulls, which may show up on an ultrasound. Isn’t it sweet to think about nuzzling against those soft locks once they arrive?
Their ears are also close to being in their final position now and are eagerly awaiting your sweet lullabies! Though their eyes are still fused shut, your babies are beginning to sense light, which is a significant point in their development.
Your babies’ lungs are also beginning to function. Talk about a breath of fresh air!
They now weigh about 2.5 ounces — about the size of a navel orange.
How are you feeling?
Between the nausea and fatigue, the first trimester can be draining, so hopefully, you’ve been feeling better over the past couple of weeks. If you’re feeling more energetic, we recommend using that to your advantage by checking some items off your to-do list.
It’s probably too soon to see your babies’ sex on an ultrasound, though the technician might be able to give you an idea based on their position. Remember, this prediction will be more accurate as you get closer to 20 weeks. That said, if you are planning to go with gender-neutral baby gear, you can certainly start planning ahead with your registry and nursery items now.
If you’d rather wait until you know the sex of your babies to start adding items to your list, that makes sense, too! This is an entirely personal decision. It may still be worth researching different brands and products so you can easily add items once you’re ready.
Will testing take place this week?
If you’ve chosen to do a Multiple Marker Screen (MMS, a.k.a. Triple or Quad Screen Test), your blood will be drawn sometime between now and week 20. This test measures specific proteins and hormones in your blood and will give a clearer picture of your babies’ risk for neural tube defects. This test may be less helpful for a multiples pregnancy, so speak to your provider if you have any questions regarding this test and how carrying more than one baby can alter the results.
A helpful hint
Are you anticipating having a baby shower? If so, now would be a great time to start thinking about when you want that to be held. Plus, it’ll give you more time to get everything settled before your little bundles arrive! Multiples are at a greater risk of being born premature, so planning your celebration before 30 weeks is likely a safer bet than waiting until closer to your due date.
We know carrying multiples can be doubly challenging, or beyond! You’re doing a fantastic job at keeping your little ones healthy and are going to be an all-star parent once they make their debut.
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.
