Probability of having twins, triplets & Co.
According to a statistical rule (according to Helling), one birth of twins occurs for every 85 births of singles (1: 85). For triplets, the probability decreases to 1:7,255 and for quadruplets to about 1:614,000.
How to have twins?
Many couples often want more than one child at a time. Then the question often arises whether there are factors that increase the probability of a twin pregnancy.
These do indeed exist. For example, the probability of a twin pregnancy increases as the woman gets older. In addition, twins run in families.
However, there is no way to directly influence the chance of a twin pregnancy.
How do twins develop in the body?
Twins are formed either from one and the same fertilized egg (monozygotic or identical twins) or from two fertilized eggs (dizygotic or fraternal twins). In the case of triplets, quadruplets & Co. combinations of identical and fraternal offspring are possible.
Identical twins
Fraternal twins
A challenge for parents
Two (or more) children in one fell swoop – that presents parents with a new set of challenges. If a woman is pregnant with twins, she has to carry significantly more weight than with only one child in her belly. Joint and back pain are therefore not uncommon during a twin pregnancy. Nausea or constipation and water retention in the body are also more common than with single pregnancies.
Last but not least, multiple children always mean more work and nervous strain. Therefore, already at the beginning of the twin pregnancy, discuss with relatives, friends or acquaintances whether they can stand by you in times of high stress – be it shopping, housework or when it comes to a free evening for you.
