First, the financial implications are tremendous. There are two, or more, of everything that must be purchased. Finances aside, multiple pregnancy can take a toll on your sanity. Two babies equals double the crying and double the sleepless nights.



Two cribs, two strollers, and two sets of clothes. Also, since every baby is unique, each will have its own special needs. For example, each child might have different schedules to be changed. Each might not want to eat at the same time. When they do eat, they may not eat the same foods.

One might take to breastfeeding while the other will only take a bottle. Then there are diapers and baby formula. These can be expensive for one child. Multiply by two or more, and you have a tremendous expense that adds up quickly.

Medically, multiple pregnancy is automatically considered a "high risk" pregnancy. Keep in mind, however, that most women endure a multiple pregnancy with no adverse complications. Normal pregnancy ailments such as mood swings and back pain are exacerbated, but in general, it's nothing worse than that.

Outside of the financial implications, two or more infants can test the patience of any mother. Regardless of whether you go through a single pregnancy or a multiple pregnancy, you will get your share of sleeplessness and crying. Although you are subjected to double the crying and sleepless nights, there can be an advantage. If a multiple pregnancy signals the end of your child-bearing days, you will only have to go through this ordeal just once.

Watching your nutritional intake is a must with multiple pregnancy. You have to eat more, but at the same time, not gain excessive weight. It's a delicate balancing act that needs to be discussed with your doctor.

After a couple of years, it will all be a pleasant memory. Contrast this to the single pregnancy of a mother who will have multiple children. She will go through the ordeal with the first child, and then again when the second is born. Having a multiple pregnancy also means that you will give birth just once during one hospital visit.