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  1. UAMS Health
  2. Conditions
  3. Multiple Pregnancy

Condition: Multiple Pregnancy

Also called: Multiple Gestations

Carrying twins, triplets or “higher-order” pregnancy, meaning four or more babies) all fit under the category of multiple pregnancy. If more than one egg is fertilized and implants in the uterus it is called fraternal twins. When a single fertilized egg splits it results in identical embryos, and eventually babies.

What causes a multiple pregnancy?

A multiple pregnancy may be the result of fertility drugs, in vitro fertilization, age or genetic factors. Women over the age of 35 are more likely to release more eggs during a menstrual cycle than younger women.

How is a multiple pregnancy different from a single pregnancy?

Women who are pregnant with multiple embryos aren’t doing the classic, “eating for two,” they’re eating for three, four or more. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends an extra 300 calories per embryo for twins. Mothers of triplets or higher-order pregnancies should consult with their OB for nutritional guidance.

Exercise is an important part of every pregnancy, however, with multiples you might want to avoid strenuous activity. Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and prenatal yoga are great options. Aim for 30 minutes of activity a day as long as there are no complications. In some situations, your OB may recommend that you avoid exercise for the duration of your pregnancy.

Is there a higher risk of problems with multiple pregnancies?

There are some complications that may be more likely, however, you should be seeing your OB more often than a single pregnancy to monitor any such complications, should they arise.

The most common complication is preterm birth. More than half of all twins are born before the expected due date. Higher-order multiples are almost always born pre-term. Babies born before 37 weeks may have higher risk of short-term and long-term health problems, including problems breathing, eating and staying warm.

Contents

  • Providers
  • Locations
  • Areas of Expertise
  • Make an Appointment

Providers Diagnosing or Treating Multiple Pregnancy

Note that every provider listed below may not perform or prescribe all treatments or procedures related to Multiple Pregnancy. Review each provider for availability.

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Joseph S. Fixler, M.D.

Joseph S. Fixler, M.D. Perinatologist

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Locations Where Providers Treat Multiple Pregnancy

Note that the treatment of Multiple Pregnancy may not be performed at every location listed below. The list may include locations where the treatment plan is developed during and after a patient visit.

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UAMS Medical Center exterior

UAMS Medical Center

4301 W. Markham St.
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-686-8000
New and Returning Patients
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Women's Center

Women’s Center

6119 Midtown Ave.
Midtown Medical Park
Little Rock, AR 72205

Appointment Phone Number
501-526-1050
New and Returning Patients
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Areas of Expertise for Multiple Pregnancy

Premature newborn baby girl in the hospital incubator after c-section in 33 week

Newborn and Infant Care (Part of Pediatric Care)

Every birth is different and special. Let our expert team at UAMS Health take some of the worry out of your delivery and put yourself and your baby in our care.

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Mother and child at UAMS

Obstetrics (Part of Women's Health)

For decades, women have come to UAMS Health for complete pregnancy care. We've cared for generations of Arkansans and we are here for you and your baby.

View Area of Expertise

Make an Appointment

Request an appointment by contacting a clinic directly or by calling the UAMS Health appointment line at (501) 686-8000.

UAMS Health LogoUAMS HealthUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Mailing Address: 4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: (501) 686-7000
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