“Most people probably haven’t even considered the idea that there may be two babies in there, so it’s completely normal to feel worried and it usually takes a while to take in this news. This is perfectly normal!”

About 1.6 million twins are born each year worldwide, with about 2.38% of children being twins (1 in every 42 children). Just like a normal pregnancy, a twin pregnancy is divided into three periods called trimesters, each about three months long.

A positive pregnancy test is the starting point of the first trimester of a pregnancy, regardless of whether you are expecting one or more children. The first period is the same for all pregnant people – until it is time to do an ultrasound.

What are the signs of a twin pregnancy?
Just like the vast majority of pregnancies, symptoms such as nausea, tight breasts and fatigue will be experienced. In the case of a twin pregnancy, these symptoms can be felt more strongly and more frequently in the pregnant person, which someone expecting their first child could not know. But if you have previously been pregnant, you may already be able to sense something at this stage. These more pronounced symptoms are due to an increased level of pregnancy hormones.

When can a twin pregnancy be detected?
The discovery of a twin pregnancy is often made at the first ultrasound. When it is performed is different from clinic to clinic, but an ultrasound is often offered between weeks 11-14. When a twin pregnancy is detected on the ultrasound, it comes up as two little hearts flashing on the screen, and in this case, you will be informed immediately.

If a twin pregnancy is detected on the first ultrasound, the news that you are expecting twins will be sent to your responsible midwife at the maternity clinic you go to. A referral to the specialist ultrasound clinic will also be sent, the goal of which is to find out what type of twin pregnancy you are carrying. After ascertaining what type of pregnancy it is (identical or fraternal twins), the rest of the pregnancy can be planned.

In the case of a twin pregnancy, the expectant parents are offered more visits to the maternity clinic and more ultrasounds. The reason for this is because a twin pregnancy involves an increased load on the pregnant body. As it is a pregnancy with increased levels of pregnancy hormones and physical strain, a twin pregnancy is considered a risk pregnancy. It can be difficult for you as a pregnant person to see yourself as a high-risk patient, and you probably haven’t noticed any difference if you compare yourself to friends or acquaintances who have had children before. This may have a natural explanation in that during this part of the pregnancy, things don’t usually differ that much.

It is common to be surprised when you receive the news that you are expecting twins. A twin pregnancy can take longer to sink in, but that’s completely okay and completely normal. Don’t be afraid to join groups of similar people so that you can talk, think and feel with others in the same situation. The first part of the pregnancy is very much about parents accepting their upcoming pregnancy and parenthood.