Birth Art by Amy Swagman

Were you hoping to have a vaginal birth, only to find out you were expecting twins? You’re not alone, but expecting twins does not usually rule out vaginal birth. The greatest things you can do to ensure a positive outcome with your twin birth are actually best done during the pregnancy! After all, if you can avoid setting yourself up for pregnancy complications that can make birth difficult or encourage preterm labor, you’ve won half the battle! Of course, not all complications ruling out natural birth can be prevented. However, you greatly increase your chances of a natural, healthy birth if you and your babies are well-nourished, well-hydrated, and well-rested.

The following are some great ways to avoid bed rest and keep yourself strong:

•    Diet:  Whether you’re carrying twins, triplets, or more, you should plan to eat at least five times a day (three meals and two substantial snacks), even if you don’t feel especially hungry.Of course, not all calories are created equal. Make them count by going easy on sugar and eating a variety of foods packed with the nutrients you need, including protein, carbohydrates, and, yes, fat. Pregnancy is no time for a lean diet.Cheese, milk, meat, eggs, nuts, and oils will all help fuel your babies’ growth. Fill out your diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, and at least ten servings of grains.  Some experts recommend drinking up to a gallon of water — that’s 16 8-ounce glasses — each day. You can get some of your fluids from milk and juice, but water should be your go-to beverage.

• Exercise:  If you’re a healthy, active woman with twins on the way, you can probably continue to exercise during your pregnancy, as long as your practitioner gives the go-ahead.Keep it slow, relaxed, and gentle. Your body — and your babies — may not be able to handle intense workouts. Good options include swimming, walking, water aerobics, and prenatal yoga.Be sure to get plenty of fluids before, during, and after your workout. And no matter what exercise you enjoy, stop immediately if you develop pain, dizziness, or heart palpitations.

• Prenatal vitamins:  Prenatal vitamins are important, but you don’t need a special “twins and triplets” formula. A standard prenatal supplement will do just fine. However, an added supplement is the best way to ensure that you get vital nutrients such as extra folic acid folic acid, iron, and calcium. Your practitioner can recommend specific brands and doses.Women carrying more than one baby are at a higher risk for iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Your practitioner will monitor the level of iron in your blood to make sure you’re getting enough. Research different high iron veggies.

• Care Provider:  Other than taking good care of yourself during your twin pregnancy, the next thing you can do to make a positive birth experience more likely is choose a provider and birth doula who suits your needs and desires. If it is important to you to have a vaginal birth, you’ll want to choose a provider who has plenty of experience with vaginal twin birth. Ask your provider how many vaginal twin births s/he has attended, and also what his or her cesarean rate for twin pregnancies is. Not all twins can or should be born vaginally, but if you don’t have a provider with experience attending vaginal twin births, your chances of having a vaginal birth, even if it is a possibility in your case, decrease dramatically.