Video:How a Twin Pregnancy Is Different

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Transcript:How a Twin Pregnancy Is Different

There's nothing quite like expecting a bundle of joy – especially when it is times two. But between a single and a twin pregnancy, there's a world of difference both physically and emotionally. And, while some differences are obvious, there are some surprising ones as well.

How Twin Pregnancy Is Different

The first physical difference is obvious – your body is nurturing two babies instead of one. While every pregnancy is different, it is common for a twin pregnancy to intensify pregnancy symptoms, such as hunger, fatigue, and morning sickness. But while some women report that carrying twins is more difficult, many women found their twin pregnancy was actually easier to handle.While many twin pregnancies are no more complicated than singletons, any multiple pregnancy is generally considered to be high risk. That means a mom-to-be of twins is going to be at the doctor's office a little more often than a mom with one baby on board.

More Information About How Twin Pregnancy Is Different

The Mayo Clinic advises that mothers carrying twins should be seen by their physician every other week during the second trimester and even once a week by the third. These visits track the mother's condition as well as the babies' health and development. A healthcare provider will also be on the lookout for signs of pre-term labor and check that mom is getting plenty of essential nutrients.

Facts About Twin Pregnancy

Another physical difference between singleton and twin pregnancies is a shorter gestation. That means you'd better have the nursery ready and your suitcase by the door for that trip to the delivery room. The Mayo Clinic also states that women carrying twins are more susceptible to various complications, including high blood pressure, pre-term birth, twin to twin transfusion (where one twin gets too much blood and the other doesn't get enough) and cesarean section delivery. But, the news isn't all bad. Mothers carrying a twin pregnancy often feel movement in the womb sooner. This is usually a source of great comfort and delight to expectant moms – that is, before the two start playing womb hockey.

Besides physical differences, there are emotional ones, too. With two babies on the way, there's naturally twice the euphoria as well as double the anxiety. However, the biggest difference is once the twins are born. There are twice the physical and emotional demands of taking care of two newborns.So it's okay if you cry a little when you get the news. Whether you're carrying a single baby or twins, it helps to have the love support of friends and family members. And, don't forget that you have created something truly wonderful and amazing, so enjoy every magical moment.

I'm Jonathon Stewart, with About.com.