For information about weeks 1 through 11 of twin or multiple pregnancies, tap here.
You’re cruising right through your second trimester! Carrying multiples can certainly be physically and mentally taxing at times, so we want to help by putting the focus on you this week. We’ve got you covered with tips on handling issues like fatigue, swelling, and beyond.
Do you feel your body changing? Your little ones squirming? It’s possible! Let’s take a look at what’s going on with you and your babies this week.
How are your babies?
Your little ones are growing quickly and their bodies are beginning to look more defined. Since multiples run the risk of being born at lower birth weights, it’s important you begin to keep an eye on your diet to be sure they’re getting the nutrients they need early on in your pregnancy. Multiples are also known to level off their weight earlier in pregnancy than singletons, which means much of their growth will be taking place during the second trimester.
Speaking of their weight? Right now, your babies are about 3.5 ounces each — roughly the size of an avocado!
How are you feeling?
Many pregnant people feel best in their second trimester, and we hope you’re feeling well, too! Eating a balanced, healthy diet can help you feel your best by increasing your energy levels and giving your body the nutrients it needs.
Lean meats, legumes, and healthy fats are especially great options for promoting weight gain during pregnancy with multiples. These foods are also beneficial for helping the body process glucose, which can be a concern during pregnancy.
Heartburn putting a damper on your days? You’re not alone! Rather than letting yourself get too hungry and eating a heavy meal, try eating smaller portions more frequently to combat indigestion. Sitting upright after you finish eating can help with symptoms, too.
Though it may seem counterintuitive, exercise can help increase energy levels. People who are expecting singletons are generally encouraged to continue their regular fitness routines, but your provider may give you different advice since you’re carrying multiples. Yoga, gentle walking, and swimming are perfect options for keeping active in a low-impact way.
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 if you have two or more babies, so speak to your provider if this is an option for you.
Let’s plan ahead!
If you’re planning to have a baby shower, now is a good time to talk with the host about when it will be held. Generally, it’s recommended to have the shower before 30 weeks if you’re carrying multiples, as you may not be up for mixing and mingling as you get further on in your pregnancy. This also gives you lots of extra time to organize your nursery with gifted supplies.
Looking for a gift for yourself? Some parents like to take a babymoon, a trip with your partner or solo where you can take some time to unwind before the babies arrive. If you’re planning to take a babymoon, try to schedule it before 27 weeks, as your provider may suggest avoiding travel after that point.
Lots of excitement is coming your way, and we hope you have fun planning for it!
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.
