At first, hearing the news that we are going to have more than one baby can be overwhelming. But, the most natural thing is that this feeling of uncertainty and, why not say it, fear, extends not only throughout the entire pregnancy until childbirth, but is maintained during parenting as well.
By definition, the term multiple birth refers to the presence of more than one fetus in the uterus. We are talking about births of twins, twins, triplets…
The excitement, joy and expectations of what our children will be like are mixed with doubts, concerns and fear. In reality, this accumulation of sensations is part of the entire parenting process. However, when this is multiple, it entails a series of particularities that must be addressed.
From the beginning, specialized protocols are established in multiple pregnancies and it is categorized as “high risk.”. Without knowing anything else, this label scares and generates alarm.
It is true that it is important to know the characteristics of a multiple pregnancy, the risks, and maintain medical follow-up as indicated by the professional, but this label only indicates the distinctive quality of the pregnancy and the need for a specific type of supervision. Pregnancy can develop completely naturally without complications.
As the time of childbirth approaches, once again all fears and insecurities emerge at their maximum expression. , as well as the excitement and joy of finally meeting our babies. It is common to read and hear myths about multiple births, such as that it has to be by cesarean section, that babies are always born prematurely, that they will be underweight…
In the same way that we have commented in pregnancy, in a multiple birth there are a series of singularities that must be considered. Beyond this, there does not have to be any problem or it is essential to perform a cesarean section.
How to psychologically cope with a multiple birth?
In this article we want to reflect the reality of many multiple families and, in this way, also accompany them in the management of their experience, since there are few paragraphs dedicated to collecting this situation. To do this, we offer the following keys to face it in a healthy way.
1. Trust medical professionals
As we have been commenting, multiple pregnancies and births have different characteristics, so It is important to inform yourself and know them, but also enjoy the process you are going through.
2. Allow yourself to feel and express all the emotions and thoughts you experience
Parenting is surrounded by contradictory and intense feelings it is normal to have fear and moments of great stress, as well as excitement and joy.
3. Be flexible
Like any life event that is surrounded by certain uncertainty, multiple pregnancy is subject to variables that we cannot manage or that do not depend on us. Although it is good to have a plan for how you would like things to go, the final result may vary. It is important to consider change as another possibility and that it does not have to mean something negative.
Our social circle is very important, both for the logistics of feeding, clothing or holding more than one baby, as well as for managing the home, and on an emotional level.
There are associations that can provide you with information and resolve questions that may arise. But they are also a source of support, where we can share our own experiences and learn from each other.
5. Don’t forget about yourself
Self-care is essential to maintain a regulated and balanced state.
6. If the situation overwhelms you, go to psychotherapy
Ask for professional help if you think you need it, It is totally valid to do so.
