Congratulations and welcome to the world that is multiple babies!

There is a lot to think about. Here are the key points that we think you should know about multiple pregnancy in Wellington.

1. Nutrition - Eat up! It is really important to eat more when you are expecting multiples. There have been studies that indicate that the weight gain in preganancy contributes to the size of your babies. Protein is the key as well as vitamins and minerals. You will need additional levels above a singleton preganancy. Elevit multivitamin is recommended however check with your LMC as you may require additional levels for your pregnancy.

2. Lead Maternity Carer -  Multiple preganancies are higher risk simply because there are more babies. You will be referred to a specialist, either privately or through the Wellington hospital high risk team. Your midwife must refer you to these teams as soon as you know you are expecting a multiple birth. Multiple births cannot be looked after by midwives only.

We recommend that if you can afford a private specialist, you should really consider this option. It means that you have the personal touch and it is like an insurance policy.

If you choose not to use a private specialist you will still be well looked after by the Wellington High risk team at the Wellington Hospital. They are a team of specialists and your specialist may vary upon visit however you are allocated one primary care giver. Appointments are at the hospital and the frequency changes as you move through your pregnancy.

3. Term for multiples - Full term for twins is 38 weeks and 34 weeks for triplets. This is due to the space limitations and is the equivalent to a 40 week singleton pregnancy. Despite everything you may hear, about 80% of multiple pregnancies go to term.

4. Antenatal classes - If these are your first babies, we recommend that you attend a standard antenatal class to get the basics about child birth. The club runs specialised Multiple Antenatal classes which you are registered for when you join.  We recommend that all expectant parents, whether they already have children or not, attend these classes.

5. Breastfeeding - It is possible to breastfeed twins and triplets. Once established it can be easier than preparing all those bottles. Twins mums actually breast feed longer than mums of singletons! At the antenatal classes, we teach you how to get prepared, feeding holds for two babies and provide education about breastfeeding.