PARENTAL CARE IN A MULTIPLES PREGNACY

Women expecting multiples have many different and unique experiences than those women who are carrying a single pregnancy. Since multiples are at a greater risk of developing complications, your healthcare provider will want to see you more frequently.

How often should I expect to visit my healthcare provider?

Your first trimester prenatal schedule may not differ from that of a single pregnancy, however you may discover that your healthcare provider wants to see you every two to three weeks. Once you enter into your second trimester you should expect to have two prenatal visits per month. During the third trimester you should anticipate weekly prenatal appointments. Your healthcare provider may change the amount of appointments based on the health of you and your babies.

Why do I need to make more frequent visits?

Women who are having multiples are at a greater risk of experiencing complications during their pregnancy. Frequent prenatal visits allow your healthcare provider to monitor both your health and the health of the babies. This allows for proper prevention, detection, and treatment of any complications that could occur. If complications were to occur then your visits would become even more frequent. Your healthcare provider will determine the exact prenatal schedule that will benefit both you and your babies.

What kind of complications will I be monitored for?

The most common complications include:

• Preterm labor
• Preeclampsia or pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH)
• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
• Fetal well-being
• Gestational diabetes
• Fetal demise or loss