Pros of Multiple Births
If you're pregnant with twins or more, you've probably heard some terrific horror stories about what to expect. People seem to love scaring expectant moms with worst-case scenarios about birth, babies and the "horrific" reality of having more than one. Try not to worry, though: those of us who have had more than one baby at a time know that the good far outweighs the bad.
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About Multiple Births
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With the increase in people using fertility drugs and women waiting to have children until they're in their late thirties and early forties, multiple births are on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control (figures for 2006, the most recent available), twins account for about 32 out of every 1,000 births. The rate for higher-order multiples (triplets and beyond) is about 153 per 100,000 births. Multiple births carry a higher risk of prematurity and other complications, but advances in prenatal and neonatal care over the past few decades has helped ensure a higher survival rate for these special kids.
Instant Family
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Some women dream of having more than one child, but find pregnancy difficult for a variety of reasons. We are conditioned to think that it's always a blissful, magical time, and it often is. For some women, though, weight gain, joint pain, nausea and other discomforts can make pregnancy a chore--a worthwhile chore, but a chore nonetheless. A multiple birth can allow women to have more than one child without dealing with more than one pregnancy.
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Companionship
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Having more than one child at a time ensures that each one always has a peer to play with. No two siblings will get along all the time, and multiples are no different, but having a built-in playmate to play tag with is priceless.
Childhood isn't all fun and games, and having someone just his size can make the scary parts easier. Think back to your first day of school. Now imagine if you'd been able to walk in with someone you'd known your whole life, and known that he was nearby all day. Multiples get that comfort from each other.
The Cute Factor
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One baby is adorable, wrapped in a cozy sleeper and snoring away softly, rosy pink cheeks curving up slightly with whatever happy things infants dream of. Now picture two, curled around each other in the bassinet, fingers entwined, as close now as they were in utero. As they grow, it's delightful to watch the way they interact, and you get the joy of two first smiles, two first steps, two first attempts to take apart the fan while you're in the bathroom--OK, maybe it isn't all cute, but most of it is.
Pampering
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Having multiples is a unique experience that brings special challenges with it. When people hear that someone is expecting twins or more, they often offer to step in and help with cleaning, cooking, errands, child care for your older kids, and other chores. You'd be wise to accept this help; you'll be awfully busy once you bring the little bundles of joy home. Soon you'll be caring for at least two new people, so let the people who want to help, help.
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