You may have had an emotional time finding out you are not only pregnant but also expecting multiples. Adjusting to the news mentally while physically meeting the demands of pregnancy can come with its share of highs and lows. Rest assured, it’s normal if you haven’t felt quite like yourself over the last couple of months.
Welcome to your last week of the first trimester!
This is a very exciting week for you and your babies, so let’s jump in and talk about what’s in store.
What’s new with your babies?
Multiples at 12 weeks weigh around 0.5 ounces and are roughly the size of a plum. Remember the little poppyseeds you found out about in the beginning? They’re really starting to fill out now!
Your babies aren’t just growing physically — they are also experiencing major neurological development. This week, your little ones’ reflexes are kicking into high gear. If you watch your babies on an ultrasound, you might see them curling their toes, opening and closing their hands, and even making suckling motions with their mouths.
Tap here to read more about how multiples occur.
How are you feeling?
Morning sickness and other first trimester symptoms are hopefully starting to wane which hopefully has you breathing easier now.
Emotionally, you may feel ready to deliver the news that you have a big surprise on the way! Remember, how you choose to share this information is entirely your decision. Some pregnant people spread the news only to close family, while others prefer to make an announcement on social media. There’s no right or wrong way to address your pregnancy, so go ahead with whatever feels most comfortable to you.
You might find your energy levels are on the rise. If you’re itching to release some of that energy, talk to your healthcare provider about implementing a prenatal exercise routine. Those who exercised before pregnancy are usually given the green light to continue their former regimens, but if you’re new to fitness, it’s best to speak with your provider about different options. Prenatal yoga, light cycling, swimming, and walks are low-impact ways to get your body moving.
First trimester screenings
If you haven’t done so already, your healthcare provider will recommend undergoing first trimester testing to ensure your babies are developing appropriately.
Chorionic villus sampling, or CVS, is an optional test that is performed between 10 and 13 weeks gestation. This testing screens for genetic and chromosomal abnormalities, such as cystic fibrosis and Down syndrome. While optional, this screening is most often recommended during pregnancy if you have risk factors for these issues. Your healthcare provider or a genetic counselor can help you weigh the options of the test, as well as help to interpret the results.
You will also undergo a first trimester screening consisting of a blood draw and ultrasound. This prenatal test is performed between 11 and 14 weeks gestation, so if you haven’t already had the screening, expect it within the next couple of weeks. This screening assesses babies’ risks for certain chromosomal conditions; namely, Down syndrome and trisomy 18.
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.
