Navigating Twin Pregnancies: Expert Care Tips from an Australian Obstetrician
By Dr Greg Jenkins | Sydney-based specialist in Fertility, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Expecting twins is a double dose of joy, and a unique set of challenges. As an obstetrician in Sydney, I’ve guided countless families through the journey of a twin pregnancy. From higher risks to specialised care, twins require extra attention at every stage. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a healthy, happy experience for you and your little ones.
Why Twin Pregnancies Need Extra Care
Twins bring twice the excitement, but they also come with increased risks compared to singleton pregnancies. Here’s what makes them special:
Higher Chance of Complications: Twins are more likely to face preterm birth (before 37 weeks), low birth weight, and issues like preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy). In Australia, about 64% of twins are born preterm, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Growth Concerns: Twins can experience growth restriction, where one or both babies don’t grow as expected, requiring close monitoring.
Delivery Considerations: Vaginal birth is possible, but many twin pregnancies end in a caesarean section—due to positioning or complications.
These factors mean you’ll need more frequent check-ups and a tailored care plan, which I’ll help you navigate.
Your Prenatal Journey with Twins
Caring for twins starts early and stays proactive. Here’s how we ensure the best outcomes:
More Frequent Monitoring: Expect check-ups every 2–4 weeks, often with extra ultrasounds to track growth. For identical twins sharing a placenta, I might recommend scans every fortnight to watch for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), where blood flow between babies becomes uneven.
Nutrition Boost: Twins demand more calories—around 600 extra daily by the second trimester. Focus on protein, iron and folate-rich foods like lean meats, spinach and lentils.
Rest and Hydration: Your body’s working overtime, so rest when you can and drink plenty of water.
I’ve seen mums of twins thrive by staying proactive—small steps like these make a big difference.
Preparing for Delivery
Delivery planning for twins depends on several factors:
Timing: Twins often arrive early—around 36–37 weeks for most—but we aim for as close to term as possible. If complications arise, we might schedule earlier.
Birth Options: Vaginal delivery is possible if the first twin is head-down (about 40% of cases), but a caesarean is more common, both options can be managed effectively to suit your needs.
NICU Readiness: Preterm twins might need neonatal intensive care (NICU) support. Choosing a hospital with access to a NICU offers peace of mind.
We’ll map out your delivery plan well in advance, so you’re ready for any scenario.
Post-Birth: What to Expect
After delivery, twins often need extra support:
Feeding Challenges: Breastfeeding twins can be tricky—tandem feeding or mixed feeding (breast and bottle) might work best.
Sleep (or Lack Thereof): Twins mean double the night feeds. I recommend a support system—partner, family, or a postpartum doula—to help you rest. A doula is a trained professional who offers emotional and practical support after birth, assisting with feeding, soothing babies and giving you time to recharge.
Bonding Time: It’s easy to feel stretched thin, but skin-to-skin with both babies helps build that connection. Even 10 minutes a day makes a difference.
I’ve watched twin families grow stronger through these early days with the right support in place.
Why Expert Care Makes a Difference
Twin pregnancies aren’t just “double the singleton”. They require a specialist who knows the nuances—like how to manage TTTS or when to recommend early delivery. I’ve led teams through complex cases, ensuring both mum and babies thrive. My role is to guide you with clarity, from prenatal care to delivery, so you feel supported every step of the way.
Is a Twin Pregnancy in Your Future?
Whether you’re expecting twins now or planning IVF (where twins are more common), understanding the journey helps you prepare. Curious about what’s ahead? Let’s chat—I’m here to help make your twin pregnancy as smooth and joyful as possible.
Meet Dr. Greg Jenkins: Your Partner in Fertility and Obstetrics
Start your pregnancy journey with confidence, guided by Dr. Greg Jenkins, a leading expert in fertility and obstetrics and head of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at Westmead Public Hospital. With years of experience and a genuine passion for helping families grow, Dr. Jenkins offers personalised care from your first steps in family planning to the moment you welcome your little one.
Known for his approachable style, he takes the time to listen and guide you through every stage with compassion and clarity. His commitment to cutting-edge care ensures you’re supported by the latest advancements in the field.
Ready to take the next step? Let’s chat about how Dr. Jenkins can help you achieve your parenthood dreams.
