A pregnant mom's health is delicate but a multiple pregnancy could result in more complications. The risks of having twins or more babies, however, can be alleviated when the mom and her doctors are constantly in touch to monitor progress and receive ample care.
What makes multiple pregnancy complicated? What are the risks that a mom has to be aware of so she can refer her concerns with her doctor?
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, multiple pregnancy complications grow with each fetus in the womb. Common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea or vomiting could heighten and become severe and the likelihood of medical issues could double or triple depending on the number of babies.
In a typical pregnancy, check-ups happen almost weekly during the final trimester. In a multiple pregnancy, however, a mom might be required to have regular ultrasound beginning with the second trimester to ensure that the babies are growing well.
Preterm labor is a common multiple pregnancy complication. The babies could come earlier than the expected 37 weeks and the mom will more likely have to undergo a cesarean birth, Medical Life Sciences reports.
If the babies arrive before the 37th weeks, then it means they might have low birth weight and have not yet fully developed. They might need to stay a few more weeks at the NICU to ensure that they can survive their new environment.
Gestational diabetes is another multiple pregnancy complication that moms and their doctors have to monitor. According to the American Pregnancy Association, this happens because the mom's body becomes resistant to insulation due to the number and size of placentas, and elevated placental hormones.
Management of gestational diabetes require a careful diet plan and exercise regimen. If necessary, the mom might have to undergo insulin therapy if the doctors prescribe it.
Preeclampsia occurs in half of multiple pregnancies. A mom might experience increased episodes of headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, as well as high blood pressure, soreness and pain on the upper right side of the abdomen.
Early intervention manages the symptoms and risks, hence regular prenatal care is vital. Watch this documentary on multiple pregnancy below to learn about what happens to the mom's body and the babies.
