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Expert Q&A

	By David L. Fay, M.D. Family Physician Associate Director, Waukesha Family Practice Residency Program

We just recently found out that I am carrying twins. We were so excited when they told us, we don't remember some of the answers to our questions! If there are two placentas, does that mean that the babies are fraternal? Are there any exercises that I should be doing to strengthen my muscles for two babies?

Twins are medically referred to as monozygotic (one egg which splits) or dizygotic (two eggs). Monozygotic twins are "identical"; dizygotic twins are "fraternal." The frequency of monozygotic twins is about 4 per 1,000 live births; dizygotic twins increase in frequency as women age, from 3-14 per 1,000 live births.

Two placentas indeed means dizygotic, or "fraternal" twins (a single placenta does not, however, mean that twins are identical).

Exercise is an important part of any pregnancy, but there are no special exercises for mothers of twins. Keep in mind that the uterus will rise out of the pelvis at 10-12 weeks, after which it is no longer protected by the bony structures; this means no "contact" sports after this time.

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