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Your Twin Pregnancy

A guide to di-di twin care

Understanding what to expect when you're expecting two

What Are Di-Di Twins?

Di-di stands for dichorionic-diamniotic.

This means your twins each have their own placenta and their own amniotic sac.

Baby A

Own placenta
Own sac

+

Baby B

Own placenta
Own sac

Think of them as neighbors in separate apartments.

Why This Matters

Di-di twins are the lowest-risk type of twin pregnancy.

Because each baby has their own placenta:

  • They don't share blood supply
  • They grow more independently
  • Certain twin complications are less likely

About 75% of twin pregnancies are di-di twins.

Your Monitoring Schedule

You'll have more ultrasounds than a singleton pregnancy.

This helps us watch both babies grow and stay healthy.

When What We Do
Every 4 weeks Ultrasound to check growth (until 28 weeks)
Every 2-3 weeks Ultrasound to check growth (after 28 weeks)
Starting at 32-34 weeks Weekly monitoring (NST or BPP)

What We Watch For

Twin pregnancies have some increased risks. Most can be managed well.

Most Common

  • Preterm birth (before 37 weeks)
  • High blood pressure
  • Gestational diabetes

We Monitor

  • Each baby's growth
  • Amniotic fluid levels
  • Your blood pressure

Regular visits help us catch and manage problems early.

Growth Differences

It's normal for twins to be different sizes.

We watch to make sure the difference isn't too large.

What's normal: Babies within 15-20% of each other's weight

What we watch: If one baby is much smaller, we check more often

Why it matters: Large differences might mean one placenta isn't working as well

Your care team will explain your babies' measurements at each visit.

When Will Delivery Happen?

Most di-di twin pregnancies deliver between 37-38 weeks.

37-38 weeks
Typical planned delivery
36-37 weeks
Average spontaneous labor

Your provider will recommend delivery timing based on:

  • How both babies are growing
  • Whether you've had complications
  • Your pregnancy history

How Will Delivery Happen?

Many di-di twins can be delivered vaginally.

Vaginal Birth More Likely If:

  • Baby A is head-down
  • No other complications
  • You've had vaginal birth before

Cesarean Recommended If:

  • Baby A is breech or sideways
  • Placenta is blocking cervix
  • Other medical reasons

Your team will discuss the safest option for your specific situation.

What You Can Do

Nutrition for Twin Pregnancy

Your body needs more calories and nutrients for two babies.

Extra calories: About 600 more per day (compared to singleton pregnancy)

Protein: Aim for 150-175 grams daily

Prenatal vitamins: Take daily as prescribed

Hydration: Drink 10-12 glasses of water daily

Your provider may recommend meeting with a nutritionist.

When to Call Us

Contact your care team right away if you notice:

It's always better to call and check.

Tracking Baby Movement

Starting around 28 weeks, pay attention to both babies' movement patterns.

What's normal: Each baby should have active periods every day

How to check: Pick a time when babies are usually active (often after meals)

What to expect: You should feel at least 10 movements from each baby in 2 hours

If you're not sure you're feeling both babies, call us.

Signs of Preterm Labor

Twin pregnancies have higher risk of preterm birth. Know the warning signs.

Call Right Away:

  • Regular contractions
  • Pelvic pressure
  • Low backache
  • Fluid leaking or gushing

What We Can Do:

  • Medications to stop labor
  • Steroids for baby's lungs
  • Close monitoring
  • Hospitalization if needed

Early intervention can make a big difference.

Building Your Support System

Twin pregnancy can be challenging. You don't have to do this alone.

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Remember

βœ“ Di-di twins are the lowest-risk twin type

βœ“ Regular monitoring helps us keep both babies healthy

βœ“ Most complications can be managed with good care

βœ“ Your care team is your partner in this journey

βœ“ Don't hesitate to call with questions or concerns

We're here to support you every step of the way.