Giving Birth to twins

There are three ways you can give birth to twins:

Vaginally
By caesarean section (C-section)
Mixed (both vaginally and c-section)
If you have had a caesarean with a previous pregnancy you will more than likely be asked to have a caesarean with your twins. If one or both of your twins are breech or lying awkwardly you may be asked to have a caesarean. If one of your babies gets him/herself into the correct head first down position and there are no other factors to consider you may well be encouraged to attempt to give birth vaginally.

Giving Birth to Twins Vaginally
Whilst this may make you gulp at the thought of it, it really doesn’t take that much longer than having just one baby. Your cervix dilates as it would do for just one baby, and then you do the pushing part twice and the rest is just the same as having just one baby.

What are my options?
When you find out you are having twins ask your midwife/ obstetrician what options are open to you for the birth. Often water births and home births and so on are discouraged. However if you have strong opinions about how you would like the birth to progress then say so to the hospital. You have a right to tell them how you would like to birth your twins. Ask your health team to explain why they want you to give birth in a certain way and what risks are involved (once you have talked it through you might have a re-think but it is good to discuss your options and the pros and cons of each choice)

Giving birth to Twins via C-section (caesarean)

Some of you will have an elective caesarean, this is where you are given a date for the operation and you arrive at the hospital on the appropriate day. Often you will be conscious during the operation and be numbed from the waist down.

However some of you may need an emergency caesarean for whatever reason. You may be given a general anaesthetic which means you will be asleep for the birth. If you have attempted to give birth vaginally and have an epidural in place you may be able to have this topped up and remain conscious for the birth.

Recovering from a caesarean
This takes time, it is a major operation and therefore you should go easy on yourself. For a short while you will be sore so if you can get yourself plenty of help this will make life easier.