Babies’ Growth.
Your twins more than double their weight this month, to be about ten ounces, and grow in length to be about nine inches by the twentieth week. Each baby’s skin is now covered with a fine, downy growth of hair and a white, slippery material, called vernix, which will protect its delicate skin before birth. The eyebrows, eyelashes, and hair on their heads begin to form and the nails become visible on their fingers and toes. By the end of this month, the muscles have become well-developed, and both babies are quite active—so you should be feeling their kicks and wiggles!
Mother’s Changes.
If not experienced earlier, you will feel the twins’ movements sometime this month. By the twentieth week, the uterus is slightly below or just at the level of the umbilicus. In fact, around eighteen weeks, a woman typically finds out she is having twins after having an ultrasound—although many may have an inkling due to fertility treatments or just a hunch. In many women, a darkened line, called the linea negra, may appear at this time, extending from the umbilicus to the pubis. This discoloration fades soon after delivery. During pregnancy, there is an increased tendency to develop varicose veins and hemorrhoids, so you should wear supportive stockings, elevate your feet whenever possible, and be sure to include ample fiber and fluids in your diet.
Multiple Facts.
- The natural incidence of twins is one in eighty-nine births.
- About two thirds of all twins are fraternal. Half of these pairs are boy/girl; one fourth are girl/girl; and one fourth are boy/boy.
Diet and Weight Gain.
During the second trimester, your digestion slows down to absorb more nutrients from the foods you eat. This can lead to constipation. In addition to drinking adequate water and other fluids throughout the day. Aim for eight to sixteen ounce glasses a day. Make sure you’re eating enough fiber-rich foods as well, such as fruits (oranges, apples, raisins, pears) and vegetables (beans, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes). (For more nutritional advice, see: Eating for Three.)
