Delivery of your Newborn Twins
A c-section known as a caesarean section is something many of us think about when having twins. Though the probability is higher with multiples, many women with a twin pregnancy give birth vaginally. It will depend on the presentation of your twins (the position they are laying) and any complications that may arise whether or not a caesarean birth is required.
Pain Management – Cesarean sections can be performed using an epidural, numbing you from the waist down. This allows you to be conscious during the procedure, a screen will be put up so you are unable to see the operation.
In the case of an emergency c-section a general anesthesia will be given which completely knocks you out for the entire operation. If attempts have been made to give birth vaginally and an epidural is in place you may be able to just top this up and remain awake for the birth of your twins.
A caesarean birth is an incision across the bikini line in your abdominal wall then through to the uterus, you will be shaved just along the top where the incision will be made.
A catheter and a IV drip will also be inserted. Your twins will be lifted out one at a time followed by the placenta. As long as there are no complications your partner will be able to hold your beautiful twin babies almost straight away, you will be able to cuddle your newborn babies once the incision has been close.
Giving birth to Twin A vaginally then delivery Twin B via caesarean section is very uncommon. Usually a combined vaginal and c-section birth occurs for the second twin when the following has occurred:
This would be classed as an emergency c-section delivery
A caesarean section is a major operation and it will take a minimum of 6 weeks to recover. During this time it is advised to lift only your baby and to cut out even the basics of household duties.
It is also important to eat well and get plenty of rest as well as doing very light exercise which should be discussed with your doctor.
Ask and accept help from family and friends. After a c section and trying to look after your twins can be very tiring, let alone if you have other children to attend to.
Every woman is different and recovery times will vary from mom to mom
There are a number of reasons a cesarean birth may be on the cards, you may elect a c-section or for various reasons it may be a necessity. Every person is different as is every birth.
Discuss your unique twin pregnancy with your health care professional.
As some occurrences for a cesarean section can be unexpected it’s a good idea to include this in your birth plan.
It’s important to always get advice from your doctor or midwife regarding a cesarean section.
Have you got any further questions, then check out our FAQs for a Twin Pregnancy