

Your babies' position may determine whether they need to be born by caesarean section or vaginally. You’re nearly twice as likely to have a caesarean if you’re giving birth to twins, than if you’re giving birth to a single baby. Your doctor may also recommend a caesarean section later in the pregnancy because of potential complications. You may choose to have an elective caesarean from the beginning of your pregnancy. If contractions stop after your first birth, hormones will be added to your drip to restart them. If your second baby is in a good position, your waters will be broken and your baby should be born soon after the first, as the cervix is already fully dilated. They do this by feeling your abdomen (tummy) and doing a vaginal examination. Once your first baby is born, the midwife or doctor will check the position of your second baby. If you have a vaginal birth, you may need an assisted birth, which is when a suction cup (ventouse) or forceps are used to help you birth your babies. If you have had a previous caesarean section, discuss with your doctor whether you should have a vaginal birth with twins. However, there may be other medical reasons why this would not be possible. If the first twin is in a head down position (cephalic), it's usual to consider having a vaginal birth. This is because, if there are problems, it's easier and quicker to assist the delivery when the mother already has good pain relief. If you're planning a vaginal birth, your health team may recommend that you have an epidural for pain relief. The birth process is similar to giving birth to a single baby. Vaginal birthĪbout 1 in 3 of all twin births are vaginal births. You will be set up with a drip, in case it is needed later. To do this, an electronic monitor and a scalp clip might be fitted on the first baby once your waters have broken. While the process of labour is the same as when single babies are born, twin babies are more closely monitored. It's common for more medical staff to be involved in the birth of twins, such as a midwife, an obstetrician and 2 paediatricians - one for each baby. Your doctor or midwife will most likely advise you to give birth in a hospital because there's a higher chance of complications with a twin birth. You should also talk about whether you would prefer a vaginal or caesarean birth. Less than 1 in every 2 twin pregnancies continues beyond 37 weeks.īecause of the likelihood that your babies will be born early, there is a good chance one or both of them will spend some time in the special care ward in hospital.Īs twins are often born early, it's a good idea to discuss with your midwife or doctor where you should give birth. Twins are more likely to be born early, often before 38 weeks, so it's important to understand your birth options. Related information on Australian websites.Even if you plan a vaginal birth, you may end up having an emergency caesarean section due to complications during labour.You may choose to have an elective caesarean, or your doctor may recommend a caesarean section because of potential complications.About 1 in 3 of all sets of twin births are vaginal births.Your doctor will most likely advise you to give birth in a hospital because there's a higher chance of complications with a twin birth.Twins are more likely than singleton babies to be born early, often before 38 weeks.
