According to the March of Dimes, you are six times more likely to deliver early with twins than with one baby. With triplets, quadruplets and other higher-order multiples, the odds are higher, nearly 100 percent. Before you get panicked at the inevitability of preterm labor, let’s break down the statistics. If you are having “just” twins, you are likely to have full-term, healthy twins within the last few weeks of the third trimester. Of the 70 percent that were reportedly born early, many were born within a few weeks of their due date. Fewer are born severely prematurely at 24-28 weeks.
Educate Yourself About Warning Signs of Preterm Labor
You can increase your odds by maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Rather than fretting about the possibility of preterm labor, prepare for a positive outcome by educating yourself about the warning signs. Tune in to your body’s cues. Although not every woman knows in advance that she’s going into labor, sometimes there are signals that can prompt you to get medical attention. Timely action can make a big difference for your babies.
A Word From Verywell
It’s important for all expectant mothers of multiples to be aware of the risks, as well as the signs of preterm labor. However, don’t let fear take the joy out of your pregnancy.
More than four or five contractions per hourRegular contractions that increase in frequencyRhythmic or persistent pelvic pressureCramps, similar to menstrual crampingBackacheDiarrhea or upset stomachA change in vaginal dischargeVaginal bleedingUneasy or urgent sense that something is wrong
