If you’re dreaming of having twins, you’re certainly not alone. Many future parents find the idea of two adorable babies at once incredibly appealing. However, for some couples or individuals, this goal can only be reached through the use of a gestational carrier or surrogate. Knowing all the options available to you can significantly help in making the best choice for everyone involved.
Considering Surrogate Twins
Some clients I see later in life believe that having two infants simultaneously might actually be less challenging than spreading out the experience over time. Additionally, opting for a gestational carrier to carry two babies at once may also be more cost-effective, eliminating the need to find another carrier down the line.
Risks of Carrying Surrogate Twins
However, carrying twins does come with increased risks. Complications such as fetal anomalies, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes are notably higher with twins compared to single births. The risk of pre-term birth, which can lead to serious health complications for the infants, is particularly concerning.
According to recent statistics from ACOG:
- The average birth weight of twins is significantly lower than that of singletons.
- Twins are more likely to be born prematurely: 19.5% before 34 weeks compared to only 2.1% for singletons.
- The infant mortality rate for twins is alarmingly higher at 23.6 per 1,000 live births versus 5.4 per 1,000 for singletons.
Overall, the risks associated with twins—like lower birth weight, prematurity, and increased chances of complications—mean that carrying twins can be far riskier for both the surrogate and the babies.
Freezing Embryos
For those considering in vitro fertilization (IVF), creating embryos to have more than one child doesn’t necessitate implanting two embryos into a surrogate simultaneously. This approach comes with its own risks. Instead, I recommend that intended parents create the embryos they need for current and future pregnancies, then freeze them. Notably, the duration for which embryos are frozen does not impact the success of future pregnancy attempts.
What Are Twiblings?
If you wish to welcome two children simultaneously without the added risks of having surrogate twins, consider having “twiblings.” This term refers to two children who are similar to twins but are actually siblings. By transferring two embryos (from the same egg and sperm) into separate gestational carriers around the same time, you can increase the chances of having two babies born close together. This approach provides the benefits of twins—like managing two babies at once—while minimizing health risks.
If you’re interested in learning more about postpartum wellness, check out this blog post. And for those considering home insemination, Make a Mom provides valuable resources. For additional information on pregnancy and home insemination, Resolve.org is an excellent resource.
Summary
In summary, while the idea of having twins can be enticing, it’s essential to weigh the risks involved with surrogate twins. Exploring options like twiblings can provide the joy of two children without the heightened health risks. Knowing your choices allows you to make informed decisions for your family.