Signs & Symptoms of Carrying Twins
It can be difficult to tell if any pregnancy symptoms are out of the ordinary, especially if this is your first time. However, there are certain signs that you could look out for:
What is Gestational Weight?
This refers to both weight gained during pregnancy and your total weight while carrying children compared to previous weight. While everyone gains weight during pregnancy, especially rapid weight gain supports the theory you may have twins.
In the case of multiples, the uterus also expands more than it would while carrying one child. Your doctor can perform measurements that will verify the additional expansion. While gestational weight can be related to eating habits, this type of expansion points more directly to twins.
What is Blood Concentration of hCG?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is one of the key hormones that keeps pregnancy on track. Especially high levels or high levels earlier than usual in the process can indicate twins.
Extreme symptoms of pregnancy can also suggest multiples. Morning sickness, food cravings, fatigue, and frequent urination are all normal parts of pregnancy, but they can be signs from your body. Talk to your doctor if you believe your symptoms may be unusual.
What to Look Out for When Carrying Twins
The best way to determine if you’re carrying twins is through diagnostic tests. The most trusted options are:
What is Ultrasound Imaging?
An ultrasound test is considered the “gold standard” in determining how many babies you may be carrying. This machine uses sound waves to produce a colorless picture of the interior of the womb. While there is still some chance of an oversight, it is very low. You will usually be able to see two fetuses clearly on ultrasound, although their position can temporarily conceal one.
What is a Fetal Doppler Monitor?
This device helps determine what’s going on inside the womb by making it easier to listen in. A trained physician will be able to detect multiple distinct heartbeats by listening to sounds from within the womb. Since a mother’s own heartbeat may make it harder to verify results, this is usually followed up with an ultrasound.
How Soon Can You Find Out You’re Having Twins?
Advancements in ultrasound technology have made it much easier to see twins early in pregnancy. These days, it is usually possible to detect the presence of twins within six to seven weeks. The longer you wait, the easier it captures conclusive results.
Make an appointment to discuss any concerns about your pregnancy or upcoming birth with the doctors of Huey & Weprin OB/GYN. Contact us today for an appointment or call us at 937-771-5100.
