What could be better than a sweet little bundle of joy?Two little bundles!If you’re one of those people who’ve dreamed of what it would be like to have twins, you might be wondering: will tips on how to conceive twins actually work?Unfortunately, the short answer is “no.” However, by learning about different influential factors and dispelling commonly-held myths, you might be able to influence the odds in your favor.
In It To Twin It: Twinning 101
Twins make up approximately 2% of the population, though that number has increased as the popularity of IVF therapies has grown. It’s estimated that twins occur naturally in around 1% of the population. There are two types of twins: monozygotic (identical) and dizygotic (fraternal).Monozygotic, or identical twins, are conceived when a single fertilized egg splits into two zygotes. It is unclear why this happens, and identical twins are the rarest-occurring type of twins. Identical twins share the same genetic information and often look almost exactly like each other, with only slight variations in appearance.Dizygotic, or fraternal twins, are conceived when two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm. This happens when hyperovulation has occurred and is more common than identical twins. Fraternal twins share some genetic information but not all, and consequently can look very different.
Factors That Increase The Chances Of Having Twins
Though we can’t guarantee any tips on how to conceive twins will actually work, certain factors indicated a boosted likelihood of having twins.
There Are Twins In Your Family
If people in your family have given birth to twins, you are more likely to follow suit if you’re trying to conceive twins naturally. This is especially true if the family history is on your mother’s side.Are you a twin yourself? Then you also have a slightly higher chance of giving birth to multiples.
You’re Over The Age Of 30
The more trips around the sun, the more likely you are to release multiple eggs when you ovulate. Women in their later thirties have an even more pronounced likelihood of naturally conceiving twins.
You Just Got Off Of Birth Control
If you’ve just quit hormonal birth control after being on it for six months, your body’s hormones undergo an adjustment period. Consequently, increased hormones could lead to increased chances of having twins.
Fertility Drugs
Taking fertility drugs such as Clomid, Gonadtropins, or Femara stimulates ovulation, possibly leading to hyperovulation and an increased chance of conceiving fraternal twins.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) And Twin Conception
IVF is not a natural approach to conceiving twins. Though IVF can be used to conceive twins, and the birth rate of twins has increased with the rise of IVF, anyone considering this option should discuss the benefits and risks at length with their doctor.
Common Myths On How To Conceive Twins
It should come as no surprise that there are plenty of myths and tips on conceiving twins that will definitely not work. Here are some of the common ones.
Taking Supplements
A quick perusal of twinning blogs leaves the impression that taking folic acid before trying to conceive will help you get pregnant with twins. There are no studies to back this claim up, but pregnant women should certainly take folate and folic acid to promote the healthy development of the baby’s brain.
A Special Twins Diet
No, there is no special diet to help you double down on your incoming bundles of joy. However, a nutritious diet is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Certain Sexual Positions
We’re sure that plenty of couples have tried to find that perfect twinning position, but so far there’s no evidence to support the idea that a certain position helps conceive twins.
That Twins Skip Generations
If the previous generation of your family had twins and you’re worried the good luck is going to skip you, have no fear. Family history is an influential factor of increased odds of conceiving twins, and there’s no evidence of it skipping generations.
Long-Term Health Strategies For Your Baby (or Babies)
Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee whether tips on how to conceive twins will actually work. However, there is a way to ensure that your baby’s health is in good hands should the unthinkable ever occur - whether you’re blessed with one or multiples.At AlphaCord, we’re passionate about providing newborn stem cell banking services in a way that’s accessible for all families. To learn more about the benefits of cord blood banking, download our free info guide today!
