Multifetal Pregnancy

Carrying two or more babies puts extra stress on your body and can increase your risk of complications. It's important to receive specialized prenatal care to support a healthy pregnancy and delivery for you and your babies. At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta and Powder Springs, Georgia, the experienced team are dedicated to supporting you throughout your multifetal pregnancy. They offer specialized care tailored to your needs, closely tracking your health and the growth of each baby. With their expertise, you can confidently enjoy a healthier pregnancy. Call your schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is a multifetal pregnancy?

A multifetal pregnancy means you’re carrying more than one fetus. It can occur if you release multiple eggs during ovulation and both are fertilized or if a single fertilized egg splits into two or more embryos. 

While multifetal pregnancies are exciting, they can pose higher risks. 

Working closely with Marietta OB-GYN ensures you receive the best care and monitoring to help you and your babies stay healthy throughout the pregnancy.

Why is a multifetal pregnancy riskier than a single pregnancy?

A multifetal pregnancy increases certain risks for you and your baby, including:

• Miscarriage
• Pregnancy hypertension
• Congenital disabilities (spina bifida, heart problems, etc.)
• Anemia
• Increased amniotic fluid
• Cesarean section (C-section)
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Preeclampsia
• Gestational diabetes

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) can also occur with identical twins sharing a placenta. This syndrome causes uneven blood flow between the twins.

What are the signs of a multifetal pregnancy?

You can have a multifetal pregnancy with no symptoms. However, common signs include the following:

• Increased morning sickness
• Excessive weight gain early in pregnancy
• Greater appetite
• Uterus larger than expected

An ultrasound exam is the only way to accurately diagnose a multifetal pregnancy.

How is prenatal care different in a multifetal pregnancy?

Prenatal care in a multifetal pregnancy involves more frequent and thorough monitoring compared to a single pregnancy. It can differ in several ways, including:

More frequent check-ups

You must have more prenatal visits to track the health and growth of each baby than in a single pregnancy.

Detailed ultrasounds

Expect more regular and in-depth ultrasounds to monitor each baby's development.

Cervical length checks

The team will regularly measure your cervix to detect any signs of an incompetent cervix or preterm labor.

Specialized monitoring

The team pays close attention to your blood pressure, blood sugar, and potential complications like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

Delivery planning

Discussions about the best delivery method and timing typically happen earlier to plan for a safe and healthy birth. The team delivers babies at the state-of-the-art birthing center at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta. 

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital features a Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), which provides exceptional care for high-risk and premature newborns and is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to nurture the smallest and most critical babies.

If you suspect you have a multifetal pregnancy, call Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates today or schedule an appointment online.