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Preemie TwinsPreemie twins are born before 37 weeks gestation. On average, twins are born between 35 and 38 weeks. Some reports suggest that approximately 50% of twins are born prematurely. If you are pregnant with twins it is a good idea to prepare yourself for the possibility of their premature birth and a stay in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).
There are some factors that may affect your risk for premature birth, such as a previous pregnancy that ended prematurely. Extremes of weight or, if it’s a first pregnancy, may also increase risk. Your particular risks should be discussed thoroughly with your doctor or midwife, as well as the symptoms and signs of preterm labor. Every mother carrying twins should be evaluated by a qualified professional throughout pregnancy to ensure the best possible outcome.
COPING WITH PREEMIE TWINS You should familiarize yourself with life in the NICU even before your twins are born. One of the best ways to do this is through other parents that have been there. There are tons of personal blogs, web sites, and books (listed below) that give detailed information and support on the issue of preemie twins. Whether your twins will need special care for a few days or a few months, it’s never easy. Being a bit prepared mentally to leave the hospital without your babies should alleviate some of the anxiety that you will surely experience. You have to keep in mind that your babies are in the best possible care and that it’s okay to care for yourself, as well. While your twins are in the NICU try to spend as much time holding them, talking to them, and nursing/feeding them as possible. For some extremely preemie twins, this may not be feasible (at least not right away). If you plan on breastfeeding, you can pump your milk at home and bring it to the NICU daily. Your breast milk is one of the best gifts you can give premature babies. Perhaps you will want to dress your preemie twins in clothing from home. This may be a comfort especially if your twins will have a long stay in the NICU. There’s wonderful web sites that offer NICU approved clothing. Remember, even though the bonding process may seem slow or even awkward, you are still, without a doubt, bonding. When my own twins were born at 36 weeks, they stayed in the NICU for 6 days. I thought for sure that having them at 36 weeks would be no problem. Although, they were over 5 lbs each and pretty healthy, they still had to deal with jaundice, proper weight gain, and some minor breathing issues. Naturally, I was distraught. I felt totally hormonal, horrible about leaving them at the hospital so I could go home for a shower and change of clothes, I was tired, worried, and sore too! I never thought seriously about having them in the NICU and I wish I had better prepared myself. One of my best friends (and fellow twin mother) also had this experience, but on a much grander scale. She gave birth to her twins in another country and at only 32 weeks gestation. You can read her personal twin story, In Disguise, on the
Twin Stories
page. Here are some really helpful links for
Preemie Twins:
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