Multiple Baby Basics

While some find multiple babies a stressful joyous occasion, there are some parents who look forward to a multiple pregnancy. 

Approximately one in every 100 pregnant women gives birth to twins. Though it is said that the chances of having multiples are not likely, it can happen when least expected. But there are some chances that increase the probability of a multiple pregnancy in a woman. 

Women who have a history of multiple births in their family have a higher chance of giving birth to twins, triplets or more. This has been identified by scientists that heredity does play a big role, but it doesn’t mean every woman from a family background of twins will give birth to twins. 

Also women with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher, and women who are above the average height also have a greater chance of having a multiple pregnancy. 

It is also observed that older mothers have a higher chance of conceiving twins than younger mothers. Mothers over 45 have a seventeen percent chance of conceiving multiples, while mothers over 50 have one in nine chances. But remember that with old age, the risk increases as well and there are dangers of miscarriages and the babies will also be faced with the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. 

Did you know being a mother of twins increases your chances of conceiving twins again? Mothers of twins are four times more likely to have a multiple pregnancy again than others. Similarly, if you have a big family, with lots of children, then again you have a better chance of having a multiple pregnancy. 

Also your diet has been identified to play a role in determining your pregnancy. If your diet is high in sweet potato or high in dairy products, you have a higher chance of conceiving multiples. Another observation that led to a research is that most mothers of twins have conceived while breast feeding. 

Although birth control pills are 99.9% effective in preventing a pregnancy, the remaining 0.01 percent could lead to a pregnancy, that also often a multiple pregnancy. This usually occurs when the pill is not taken constantly, or else because the hormonal mix of a particular drug doesn’t provide you enough coverage to completely prevent ovulation. These occurrences can lead to hyper ovulation, thereby increasing the chances of a multiple pregnancy. 

But do remember The Basic of multiple pregnancies, they are not planned! It is by chance or by luck that you will be blessed with double joy. 

Good Luck in Your Attempts!