A twin pregnancy is a very unique experience. Not only are you carrying two babies, but you may also be experiencing different symptoms than you did with your first pregnancy. This week-by-week guide will introduce you to the most common symptoms of a twin pregnancy.
Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy First Trimester:
The first trimester of a twin pregnancy is an exciting time. But it can also be confusing since many of the symptoms are the same as those you experience during a singleton pregnancy. Here are some of the most common symptoms of twin pregnancy in the first trimester.
Morning sickness is very common in twin pregnancies. Most women report nausea and vomiting throughout the first trimester. This is because there is more hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your system, which is produced when you’re pregnant.
3 Weeks of Twin Pregnancy:
This week is all about getting the baby’s room ready! You may have started to shop for some of the essentials, or even painted the nursery. You may be feeling a bit more tired now, as your belly gets bigger and your twins start to take up more space.
4 Weeks of Twin Pregnancy
The fourth week of a twin pregnancy is an important time for both mom and baby. Twins are growing fast and starting to develop more features. Mom may start to feel more movement from the babies. And, she should be sure to start taking folic acid supplements.
5 Weeks of Twin Pregnancy
The fifth week of twin pregnancy is when the two babies will start to look more like fetuses. By the end of this week, they will each measure around 1.5 inches long and weigh a little over an ounce. They are starting to grow hair and their eyes are starting to form.
6 Weeks of Twin Pregnancy
The sixth week of twin pregnancy is a time of great change for both mothers and babies. Twins are now officially classified as fetuses, and their features continue to develop. By the end of this week, the twins will have individual heartbeats and their spinal cords.
The mother’s body is also changing rapidly. She may start to feel the twins move around, and she may experience morning sickness and fatigue. It’s important for mothers in their sixth week of twin pregnancy to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of rest, and drink plenty of water.
7 Week of Twin Pregnancy
The seventh week of pregnancy is an important milestone. This is when the baby’s heart begins to beat and the neural tube closes. You may be feeling a bit more energetic now, and your morning sickness may be subsiding.
You should start to think about prenatal care and make an appointment with your doctor. You will also want to start taking a prenatal vitamin. Be sure to include plenty of protein, calcium, and iron in your diet.
8 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, you will likely feel the baby move more. You may also notice that your belly is growing more quickly. You may be experiencing some of the following symptoms: heartburn, constipation, hemorrhoids, and swelling.
9 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
You are now in your 9th week of pregnancy. This is an important week because the neural tube is beginning to close. It will close by the end of this week, so you must get enough folic acid. You may also be feeling sicker than you have been in previous weeks.
You are probably also starting to show a bit more. Your uterus is now about the size of a grapefruit, and your baby is about the size of a raspberry. He or she is starting to move around, although you may not be able to feel it yet.
10 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week is a big one for twin pregnancies! The babies are now considered viable and have a good chance of surviving if they are born prematurely. This week is also when you’ll start to feel the babies move. You may be able to feel them kicking and moving around and even see them hiccuping on an ultrasound.
11 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
The 11th week of a twin pregnancy is a time of great change. The babies are growing rapidly, and their organs are starting to form. This week is also a time for the mother to start feeling the babies move. In most cases, the mother will be able to feel one baby moving by the end of this week.
12 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, the baby is the size of a navel orange. The baby’s eyelashes and eyebrows are starting to grow, and the baby can hear the mom’s voice. All of the baby’s organs are in place, and the baby is now moving around a lot. The baby’s sex can be determined this week.
13 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week is a big milestone for most twin pregnancies, as it is often when the first ultrasound is done. The technician will be looking for two heartbeats and measuring the babies’ sizes and other important markers. You may also find out the babies’ genders this week.
Also Read:
Twin Pregnancy Complications
Twin Pregnancy Ultrasound
Identical Twins VS Fraternal Twins
Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy Second Trimester:
Many women wonder what the symptoms of twin pregnancy second trimester might be. The second trimester is often considered the easiest stage of pregnancy, but it can also bring on its own set of challenges and symptoms.
Some common symptoms of twin pregnancy in the second trimester include fatigue, morning sickness, and problems with sleeping. You may also start to show more at this stage, as your uterus expands to accommodate both babies. You may also find that you’re carrying the babies differently than you did in the first trimester.
14 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
The fourteenth week of twin pregnancy is a significant time for both the babies and the mother. The babies are growing bigger and stronger every day, and the mother is starting to feel more movement from them. By this week, the babies will be about 5.5 inches long and weigh around 5 ounces each.
The mother can expect to start feeling the babies move around this week. Some women may feel the babies moving as early as the thirteenth week, but most will feel them starting around the fourteenth week. The movement will become more consistent and stronger as the weeks go on.
15 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week marks the fifteenth week of your twin pregnancy. The babies are now around 5.5 inches long and weigh about 1.3 ounces each. They are starting to develop some of their characteristic features – for example, one may have a full head of hair while the other has none.
You may be feeling more pregnant now as your twins grow. You may be experiencing more morning sickness, Braxton Hicks contractions, and fatigue. You should be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet to ensure that you and your twins are healthy.
16 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, the babies are the size of lemons. They are around 5.5 inches long and weigh about 9.5 ounces. The babies’ eyes can now open and close, and they are starting to develop their senses. Their heartbeats are strong and steady, and they are starting to move around in the womb. You may be able to feel them kicking and moving now.
17 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, the babies are the size of navel oranges. They’re starting to move around a lot and their arms and legs are getting more proportional. You may start feeling them move this week.
The babies’ eyes are still closed, but the ears are now in their correct positions. They’re swallowing small amounts of amniotic fluid and peeing and pooping. The lanugo, or fine hair, is starting to grow all over their bodies.
18 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
The 18th week of your twin pregnancy is a time of continued growth and development for your twins. They are now about the size of a grapefruit and are starting to look more like babies. Each twin has his or her amniotic sac and placenta.
There is still a lot of development going on this week. The neural tube is closing and the brain is growing. The intestines are moving into the baby’s abdomen and the liver and pancreas are starting to form. The circulatory system is also developing, and the babies’ heartbeats can be heard.
19 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At this point in your pregnancy, the babies are around 16 inches long and weigh almost 2 pounds. They are starting to develop their characteristics, and their sex can be distinguished by ultrasound.
The amniotic sac, which has been protecting the babies since week 10, is gradually breaking down and will disappear completely by week 20. The babies’ kidneys are now producing urine, which will be excreted into the amniotic fluid. Lanugo, the fine hair that covers the baby’s body, is starting to disappear.
20 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At 20 weeks pregnant, you may be starting to feel the baby move. This is an exciting time as you get to know your baby and begin to form a bond. You may also be experiencing some of the common symptoms of the 20th week of pregnancy, such as nausea, fatigue, and heartburn.
There are a few things you can do at this stage of your pregnancy to help make it as comfortable and healthy as possible. Make sure to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of exercises, and take prenatal vitamins. You should also avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating processed foods.
21 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
Now that you are 21 weeks pregnant, the baby is about the size of bell pepper. Your little one’s eyes can now move around and may even be able to see light. His or her ears are fully formed and the skin is starting to become less transparent. The baby’s skeleton is becoming stronger and the muscles are growing.
22 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
The 22nd week of twin pregnancy is a time when the babies are becoming more active and the mother can start to feel them moving. The babies’ eyesight is continuing to develop and they are starting to practice breathing. This week is also a time when the mother may start to show more, especially if she is carrying her twins high.
23 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, the baby is the size of a honeydew. You are probably feeling pretty big by now! The baby is about 15 inches long and weighs almost 2 pounds. Twins can be of different sizes and may not share the same due date. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to modify some of your activities to ensure the safety of both you and your babies.
24 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At 24 weeks pregnant, you are well into your second trimester. The risk of miscarriage has greatly decreased and you are likely feeling better than you did in the first trimester. You may have even started to show a bit, especially if it’s your first pregnancy. This week, your baby is about the size of bell pepper and is starting to develop hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows.
25 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
As your pregnancy progresses, you will reach the 25th week. This is an important milestone as many important developments take place during this week.
The baby’s brain is growing rapidly and neural pathways are forming. This is the time when the baby’s eyesight and hearing develop. By the end of this week, the baby’s skeleton will be fully formed.
You may start to feel the baby move around this week. The baby’s lungs are also starting to develop and by the end of this week, the baby will be able to breathe air.
26 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, as you are 26 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of bell pepper. You are likely feeling quite good and have plenty of energy. You may even be starting to show. This week, your baby’s intestines are moving into their final position in the abdomen. The lanugo, or fine hair, is continuing to grow on your baby’s body, providing insulation.
27 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At 27 weeks pregnant, you are likely feeling excited and anxious at the same time. You are starting to feel the baby move and are eagerly awaiting the day you can finally feel him or her kick. You may also be feeling some aches and pains as your body starts to prepare for labor.
This week, your baby is about the size of a small cantaloupe and is starting to develop his or her taste buds. The baby’s lungs are also continuing to mature, and he or she is now able to hear your voice and your partner’s voice.
Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy Third Trimester
The third trimester of a twin pregnancy is marked by the growth of the baby and the preparation of the body for labor and delivery. Many women report an increase in symptoms during this time.
Some common symptoms of twin pregnancy in the third trimester include:
Increased fatigue:
There are many different symptoms associated with twin pregnancies, and fatigue is one of them. Twins can put a lot of strain on the body, especially in the early stages of the pregnancy when they are just starting to grow. In most cases, the fatigue will start to dissipate as the twins grow older and the body gets used to carrying two babies.
Weight gain:
The symptoms of weight gain during a twin pregnancy are very different from the symptoms of singleton pregnancies. Twins typically gain more weight than singletons, and they tend to gain it more quickly.
Most women will start to show around 12 weeks into the pregnancy, but with twins that number comes much earlier – often around 8 or 9 weeks. Because twins are growing more quickly, they are also more likely to experience morning sickness and other common pregnancy complaints.
Swollen feet and ankles:
Swollen feet and ankles are common symptoms of twin pregnancy. The increase in blood volume and the extra pressure of the babies on your veins can cause your feet and ankles to swell. Swelling is usually worse in the later stages of pregnancy, and it can also be a sign of pre-eclampsia.
If you are having trouble walking or if your feet and ankles are very swollen, contact your doctor. Treatment for swelling may include wearing support stockings, resting as much as possible, and drinking plenty of fluids.
Urinary frequency:
Many women experience urinary frequency during early pregnancy. This is often caused by the enlarging uterus, which compresses the bladder. Twin pregnancies are associated with an even greater risk of urinary frequency and other urinary problems.
Symptoms of urinary frequency during twin pregnancy include the need to urinate more often than usual, the inability to hold urine for very long, and a burning sensation when urinating. If you are pregnant with twins and experience any of these symptoms, be sure to speak to your doctor.
Braxton Hicks contractions:
Braxton Hicks contractions are one of the earliest symptoms of twin pregnancy. They are named after the doctor who first described them – John Braxton Hicks.
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, painless contractions of the uterus. They may be felt as a tightening in the abdomen that comes and goes. They may be mistaken for labor pains, but they are much weaker and less regular than true labor pains. Braxton Hicks contractions usually start around the 20th week of pregnancy and become more common as the pregnancy progresses.
Pelvic pressure:
Pelvic pressure is a common complaint among pregnant women, especially during the later stages of pregnancy. For women with twin pregnancies, the added weight and pressure of carrying two babies can cause even more discomfort.
Some of the most common symptoms of pelvic pressure during twin pregnancy include:
- A feeling of heaviness in the pelvis
- Increased urinary frequency
- Back pain
- Difficulty walking
- Pressure on the rectum and bladder
Sudden mood swings:
During the early weeks of a twin pregnancy, many women experience sudden mood swings. This is often due to the hormonal changes that are taking place as the body prepares for two babies.
Some of the most common symptoms of twin pregnancy mood swings are irritability, feeling overwhelmed, feeling sad or anxious for no reason, and having trouble sleeping. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
28 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, you will be 28 weeks pregnant. Your baby is now the size of butternut squash!
At this point in your pregnancy, your baby is starting to develop reflexes. The rooting reflex helps them find and nurse from your breast. The sucking reflex helps them eat and drink. Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly, and its skull is starting to harden. Their eyes are also starting to form, and they can see light and dark. Your baby is also starting to move around more. You may be able to feel them kicking and moving around.
29 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week marks the 29th week of your twin pregnancy. At this stage, both babies are around 14 inches long and weigh about 2 pounds each. You may be feeling their movements more now as they continue to grow and develop.
Your twins are likely kicking, squirming, and somersaulting around in there! As their movements become more coordinated, you may even be able to tell which baby is moving. This week, their eyesight and hearing continue to develop, and they are starting to practice breathing.
30 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At 30 weeks pregnant, your twins are probably around the size of a honeydew melon. You’re probably feeling pretty big and uncomfortable by now. You may be having trouble sleeping, and you’re ready to have these babies out of you!
Your twins are growing bigger and stronger every day. They’re starting to develop their personalities, and they can hear and respond to noises. They’re also starting to practice breathing and swallowing.
31 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week I am 31 weeks pregnant with twins. At this point, the babies are about the size of a cantaloupe. They are continuing to grow and develop, and their skin is becoming more transparent. This week, the babies will start to practice breathing and swallowing.
32 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, as your babies are about the size of navel oranges, their skin is still thin and translucent. All of their organs are formed and working, though they’re not quite ready to function on their own. The amniotic fluid continues to protect them and help them grow.
You’re probably feeling a lot more pregnant now than you were a few weeks ago. Your belly is getting bigger, and you may be experiencing some Braxton Hicks contractions. You may also be feeling kicks and punches from your babies.
33 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week your babies are the size of a large lime!
At 33 weeks pregnant, your twins are fully developed and starting to prepare for life outside the womb. Each baby is about 14.5 inches long and weighs 2.5 pounds. They’re swallowing amniotic fluid and practicing breathing. You may feel them hiccuping and kicking.
Your babies’ skin is still thin and transparent, but it will gradually become thicker. The lanugo, or fine hair, that covered their bodies in the womb will start to disappear.
34 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
At 34 weeks, your twins are considered full-term. This means that they are ready to be born any time now. You will likely feel them move around a lot more as they get bigger and their movements will become more coordinated.
Your 34th week of twin pregnancy may bring on some new symptoms, including Braxton Hicks contractions, which are sporadic and painless uterine contractions. You may also notice an increase in vaginal discharge and more swelling in your ankles and feet.
35 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week marks the 35th week of your twin pregnancy. You are likely feeling very excited and anxious as you prepare for the birth of your twins. This week, your babies are about the size of a cantaloupe and should be moving around a lot. You may be able to feel them kicking and moving.
You should be making preparations for the birth of your twins. Make sure you have everything you need and that you have designated someone to take care of your other children if you have any. You should also start thinking about what you want your post-birth plan to be.
36 Week of Twin Pregnancy:
This week, you may feel like your pregnancy is going by quickly. You are likely starting to feel more and more movement from your babies. At 36 weeks pregnant, you are officially in the home stretch! This week, you should focus on getting ready for labor and delivery.
You should also start thinking about what you will need once your babies are born. Make a list of the items that you will need for your babies and yourself. You may also want to start packing your hospital bag. Be sure to pack everything that you will need, including clothes, toiletries, and snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Ques. When do pregnancy symptoms start with twins?
Ans: Pregnancy symptoms can start as early as four weeks after conception, but they’re usually more noticeable around six or eight weeks. With twins, however, some women may experience pregnancy symptoms earlier because they produce more hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), the hormone that is responsible for most pregnancy symptoms.
Ques: Can twins be seen at 7 weeks?
Ans: At seven weeks, a baby’s heartbeat and other basic body structures are developed enough that ultrasound can usually pick up a twin. However, it’s important to remember that not all twins are detectable at seven weeks. About 1 in 4 twin pregnancies aren’t discovered until after the 20-week ultrasound.
Ques: How should you sleep when pregnant with twins?
Ans: There is no one right way to sleep when pregnant with twins. Some women find they need to sleep more when pregnant with twins, while others find they can get by on less sleep. It is important to listen to your body and get as much rest as you can.
Some women find it helpful to sleep on their side when pregnant with twins. This can help reduce the risk of stillbirth. You may also want to try a pregnancy pillow to make sleeping more comfortable.
Ques: Are you more tired pregnant with twins?
Ans: Yes, you are more tired pregnant with twins. With two babies to take care of, you’re going to be exhausted. Twins naturally result in a longer pregnancy since the babies are larger and have more to grow. You may find that you’re carrying them a little later than with a singleton pregnancy, and you may feel more tired later on too.
Ques: What’s the difference between a girl bump and a boy bump?
Ans: The way a baby bump appears during pregnancy can give clues about the baby’s sex. Most people know that a “girl bump” is when the pregnant woman’s belly sticks out in front, while a “boy bump” is when the pregnant woman’s belly swells out on the sides.
There are other physical indicators of a baby’s sex as well. For example, women carrying boys often have a higher heart rate and more protein in their urine. Girls tend to have more body fat and less hair on their heads.
