Twins are a result of multiple births, i.e. when more than one baby shares
the womb of the same woman at the same time. It is estimated that one in every
eighty pregnancies is a twin pregnancy. Incidence of twin births has become very
common due to several factors including increased use of fertility treatments.
Genetics and environmental conditions are also responsible for the birth of
twins. Twins are can result from two fertilized eggs (fraternal or non-identical
twins) or from a single fertilized egg (identical twins).
Raising twin babies is an arduous task and can be very challenging. Most
twins are born premature at around thirty-six to thirty-eight weeks and thus
need special attention. Though they can be delivered normally, caesarean section
may be required because of the unusual placement of the babies inside the womb
due to limited space.
Both the twins can be breastfed, as the mother’s body can generally produce
enough milk for both the babies. The babies can have different demands for
nursing, as well as different appetites. This can increase the stress levels for
both the parents, not to mention the cost of bringing up two babies at the same
time.
There is special equipment for twin babies like twin nursing pillows and beds
for twins. Twins can also share a bed or a room, as this will increase their
companionship. There are times when one twin is more demanding and may wake up
more frequently during the night, which may cause the other baby to wake up.
This problem can be corrected by following certain techniques like putting both
the babies to sleep at the same time, putting them in the same crib,
establishing a calming routine before bedtime, and discouraging nighttime
waking. There are associations like the National Organization of Mothers of
Twins that provide advice and support for mothers of twins.
