During pregnancy, the body periodically experiences discomfort. In the case of multiple pregnancies, the discomfort may be stronger than usual. What are the most common issues?
Fatigue
Before pregnancy, you might have had enough energy for work, fun, and household chores. Now all you can think about is getting to the couch. Physical tiredness can be annoying. Don't feel bad! Your body is doing very important work right now: giving energy and vitality to two new humans at once. So take care of yourself and get more rest [1].
Hemorrhoids
To provide the babies with everything they need, the body squeezes the maximum of nutrients out of food. Therefore, the amount of feces coming out decreases. The result may be constipation, pain, and discomfort. This is very common. To try to mitigate these symptoms, make sure to eat plenty of high-fiber foods and drink more water [1].
Nausea and vomiting
Twin pregnancies will present higher levels of hCG, estrogen, and progesterone. And these hormones are the ones responsible for morning sickness. Therefore, women expecting twins may be at a higher risk of experiencing it more often. Fortunately, by the second trimester, the unpleasantness subsides. In the meantime, avoid triggering smells and tastes, eat small portions, and be gentle with your movements [1].
Back pain, leg swelling, and urinary incontinence
All of these issues are typical of pregnancy, but in the case of twins, they can definitely be more pronounced. If they become difficult to bear, talk to your doctor [1].
Bed rest
Expecting multiples doesn’t mean you have to give up a normal life. But sometimes doctors will prescribe bed rest to women expecting twins. In such a case, there is no reason for concern. It does not necessarily mean that the babies are at risk.
If your doctor orders bed rest, make sure to talk to them in detail about the reasons behind their recommendation. It may be water leakage, high blood pressure, the opening of the cervix, or something else. Being well-informed will always help you deal with things better. In certain situations, doctors will just want you to take it easy and be extra careful by taking a load off the body and minimizing any possible risks to the babies.
If your doctor orders bed rest, make sure to follow their indications fully. Keep in mind that what you are really doing is helping your babies and taking care of them. Plus, you will be able to save your strength for when the twins are born, when you will need all the energy you can muster [1]!
