Expecting Multiples

What is a multiple pregnancy?

A multiple pregnancy is the presence of two or more fetuses growing in the uterus. Being pregnant with multiples is considered high-risk because complications and premature birth are more common than in pregnancies of one fetus.

Taking care of yourself and your babies:

- reduce stress in your life
- talk to your health care provider about the amount of physical activity that is right for you
- eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water - When carrying more than one baby need more calories, protein, folic acid and other nutrients including iron
- maintain a healthy weight gain under the supervision of a health care provider
- ensure proper rest
- your body will be working twice as hard and it will need twice as much rest. Take regular breaks from your daily activities and get at least eight hours of sleep per day.
- visit your health care provider regularly to detect complications early enough for effective treatment
- connect with you local chapter of Parents of Multiple Birth Association (POMBA) for information and support

Resources:

Best start - www.beststart.org
POMBA - www.drpomba.com
March of Dimes - www.marchofdimes.com
Multiple Births Canada - www.multiplebirthscanada.org
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada - www.sogc.org

Article by Durham Health
www.region.durham.on.ca