In most cases, a doctor may suspect the possibility of a woman carrying more than one baby based on certain physical signs and symptoms before performing ultrasounds or other tests. However, definitively confirming a multiple pregnancy usually requires imaging techniques like ultrasound or advanced medical tests.
Physical Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Pregnancy: During early pregnancy, some physical signs and symptoms may indicate the possibility of carrying more than one baby. These signs include:
- Rapid weight gain and a larger-than-expected uterus size for the gestational age.
- Excessive morning sickness (nausea and vomiting).
- Higher-than-normal levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone in the blood.
- Feeling more fetal movements than expected.
- Heightened sensitivity to fetal movements, as a woman with previous pregnancies may recognize the difference in sensations.
Although these signs can suggest a multiple pregnancy, they are not definitive, and some women may not experience them even if they are carrying more than one baby.
Confirmation of Multiple Pregnancy with Ultrasound: Ultrasound is one of the most reliable methods for confirming a multiple pregnancy. Typically, a doctor will recommend an ultrasound examination around 6-10 weeks of gestation to assess the viability of the pregnancy and check for the presence of a fetal heartbeat. During this ultrasound, the doctor can also identify multiple gestational sacs and fetal heartbeats if there are more than one embryo.
Subsequent ultrasounds in the later stages of pregnancy can provide further details about the number of fetuses, their growth, and their positions in the uterus.
Other Advanced Tests: In some cases, if the doctor suspects a multiple pregnancy but cannot confirm it with a regular ultrasound, they may use other advanced imaging techniques or tests. These may include:
- Transvaginal ultrasound: A more detailed ultrasound that is performed by inserting a special ultrasound probe into the vagina to get a closer look at the uterus and early pregnancies.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Although not commonly used for routine pregnancy evaluation, MRI can provide more detailed information about the uterus and pregnancies if needed.
- Blood tests: Specific blood tests can measure the levels of certain hormones associated with multiple pregnancies, such as maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) and unconjugated estriol (UE).
Ultimately, the doctor will use a combination of physical examination, patient history, and appropriate imaging or tests to determine if a woman is carrying more than one baby. Early detection of multiple pregnancies is essential for proper prenatal care and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the babies.