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During your pregnancy, you may find out that you're expecting 3 or more babies. This can sometimes be a surprise or even a shock. Most families with multiple pregnancies find having several babies at once to be a very positive experience. Being pregnant with triplets or more does mean you will need extra medical support throughout your pregnancy. Show
How do 'higher order multiples' occur?If you are having 3 or more babies, they are known as 'higher order multiples'. This sort of multiple pregnancy can occur when:
Both of these things can also happen at the same time. This means that multiple babies could be fraternal (non-identical) or identical. Higher order multiples rarely happen naturally and are usually the result of fertility treatments. In 2020, 1.4% of all births in Australia were multiple births. Of these, almost all were twins. Just 1 in 100 of the multiple births were triplets or higher. You can find out if you are having a multiple birth when you have an ultrasound. When carrying triplets or more, you can expect the same early pregnancy symptoms that you would have with one baby. But they can start sooner and be more severe. You will need extra medical care throughout your pregnancy. Choose an experienced doctor and medical support team that is right for you. You may see a team of health care professionals who are experienced in higher order multiple pregnancies. These may include:
You will need tests such as a glucose tolerance test to check for gestational diabetes. Frequent ultrasounds may be recommended to see how your babies are growing. Ultrasound scans can also check whether there are any problems with the placentas or cords. The most common pregnancy complication with triplets or more is premature birth. Your healthcare team will keep a close eye on your health. Carrying multiple babies puts you at higher risk of certain problems. These can include:
Talk to your healthcare team if you have any concerns while you are pregnant. Looking after yourself during multiple pregnancyHaving a multiple pregnancy can be physically and mentally overwhelming. It is important to take care of yourself. Make sure to surround yourself with a positive support network. NutritionIf you are carrying triplets or more, you may grow bigger than with a normal pregnancy. You may also grow more quickly. You will need to eat more to meet the babies' nutritional needs, and your own. You may need to take iron, calcium, Vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements. Your healthcare team will provide you with a nutrition plan. Conditions associated with pregnancyWith a multiple pregnancy, you may be more likely to experience:
See your doctor for information and advice about how to manage these symptoms. You may experience backache, so correct posture is very important. To keep good posture while pregnant, you should:
Activity and restDoing some gentle exercise during pregnancy can help ease tension and improve your muscle tone. Towards the end of your pregnancy, you may need to make some changes, such as
You can feel very tired in the later stages of the pregnancy. You may have problems sleeping. Frequent rest and drinking plenty of water will help. You will also usually have to stop work earlier than with a single pregnancy. Your healthcare team can advise you on the right time for this. Preparing for multiple babiesBe as prepared as you can. The babies are likely to be born earlier so it's a good idea to get the nursery ready. Attend antenatal classes earlier than you would for a single pregnancy. Some classes or information evenings are designed specifically for women expecting multiple babies. These sessions can provide support, and a chance to meet other families. Before your babies are born, you can speak with your midwife or lactation consultant about feeding. They can provide advice and support on:
When are multiple babies born?While a normal pregnancy usually lasts 40 weeks, triplets are often born earlier. Usually, the longer your babies can stay in the uterus, the better. But when you are pregnant with triplets or more, complications can often develop. With some complications, it may be better for you and your babies if they are delivered early. Most multiple births take place by caesarean section. Your medical team will decide when to deliver. This will be based on your health and the health of the babies. You may need to stay in hospital for a while before the birth. If you experience any signs of preterm labour, call your doctor immediately. Where to find more informationIf you are expecting higher order multiples, it's common to worry about things such as:
For support and resources, contact the Australian Multiple Birth Association. You can also call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby on 1800 882 436 for advice or support 7 days a week What are the symptoms of triplets in first trimester?What are the signs of a multiple pregnancy?. Severe nausea and vomiting (morning sickness).. Rapid weight gain in the first trimester of pregnancy.. Sore or very tender breasts.. High human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) levels — this hormone is made during pregnancy and is what a pregnancy test picks up.. What does it feel like to be pregnant with triplets?You may experience more severe morning sickness, exhaustion, and general discomfort. Triplet pregnancies are also associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. This can seem like a lot to take in, but your healthcare provider can help you manage these challenges.
Are pregnancy symptoms worse with triplets?When carrying triplets or more, you can expect the same early pregnancy symptoms that you would have with one baby. But they can start sooner and be more severe. You will need extra medical care throughout your pregnancy. Choose an experienced doctor and medical support team that is right for you.
Do pregnancy symptoms start earlier with multiples?Some common signs of a twin pregnancy include: More morning sickness. Nausea and vomiting can be worse in a twin pregnancy, thanks to higher levels of the hCG hormone circulating in your system. You may notice that it starts earlier, and lasts longer.
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