Treatment for Painful Knee Inflammation

If you are pregnant and expecting twins, your prenatal care typically will involve taking some extra precautionary measures This is because a multiple pregnancy is considered "high risk," even when the mom-to-be is in good general health. Because a woman carrying twins is at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy and labor, she must visit her obstetrician more often than the standard single pregnancy requires. This may include visits every few weeks during your first trimester. To ensure you and your unborn twins are off to a good start, consider the following advice:

1. Schedule an Appointment With a Specialist

While an obstetrician can treat most any pregnancy, it is a good idea to seek care from a physician who specializes in high risk pregnancies and multiple births. If you are uncertain of where to look, ask your physician to refer you to a perinatologist. This specialist is often referred to as a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Your obstetrician may work side by side with such a specialist, seeing that you receive the highest level of care and helping reduce your risk of complications during your pregnancy.

2. Up Your Caloric Intake and Stay Hydrated

A multiple birth pregnancy requires the consumption of extra calories. For proper health, be sure you are consuming a healthy diet with the proper caloric intake. Your obstetrician can advise you on how many calories you should consume daily. He or she may also prescribe a prenatal vitamin supplement. In addition, it is also important to stay hydrated, due to the multiple blood flow of twin fetuses. Drink plenty of water and non-caffeinated beverages such as fruit juices.

3. Monitor Your Blood Pressure At Home

While your physician will take your blood pressure during every visit, it is a good idea to take your blood pressure daily at home. This is because women who are expecting twins are more likely to experience hypertension (high blood pressure). If you detect a rise in your blood pressure, alert your doctor.

4. Relieve Your Aching Joints With Non-Impact Exercise

You may find yourself experiencing aches and pains due to the extra stress of a multiple pregnancy. With your doctor's approval, try performing some simple pelvic floor exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles. Prenatal yoga exercises may be a good idea. A simple daily walk may also help you feel better as well. Never undertake any exercise program without consulting with your doctor.  

For more information about prenatal care with twins, contact a health clinic in your area, such as Bhupathy Vellore R MD-Women's Medical Group.