Healthy eating with a twin pregnancy
Expecting 2 babies does not mean you have to eat significantly more than during a single pregnancy.
But it's normal to put on more weight than a woman who's only carrying 1 baby.
Aim to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains.
These will help you avoid constipation and provide a range of vitamins and minerals.
You also need some protein foods, such as lean red meat, well-cooked eggs, and nuts and seeds.
Dairy foods such as milk, cheese and yoghurt are important for calcium.
If you feel peckish, it's best to fill up on healthy snacks, such as fresh fruit, low-fat yoghurt or sandwiches filled with grated cheese, lean ham or mashed tuna.
Try to avoid foods with empty calories, such as sugary snacks, crisps and fizzy drinks.
You're more at risk from anaemia during a twin pregnancy.
You'll be offered extra blood tests and may be offered iron supplements.
Good sources of iron include lean red meat, leafy green vegetables, beans and fortified breakfast cereals.
Staying active with a twin pregnancy
Gentle exercise will help you tone your muscles and protect you from aches and pains.
Exercises that will not overstress your joints are recommended, such as swimming, walking, antenatal yoga, pilates and tai chi.
Doing pelvic floor exercises regularly will help your pelvic floor get back to normal after your babies are born.
Even if you have had a caesarean birth, you pelvic muscles can still be weak from your pregnancy.
Common pregnancy health worries with twins
It's not necessarily true that you'll have more morning sickness if you're expecting twins.
Although some women expecting twins or more report lots of morning sickness, others do not experience any.
If you do experience morning sickness, you may find it helps to eat little and often, and to avoid getting hungry.
Pressure from your womb (uterus) pushing on your stomach may make you more prone to heartburn and indigestion as well.
Speak to your midwife, who may refer you to an obstetric physiotherapist.
If you register with Twins Trust on its website, you can download a healthy multiple pregnancy guide for free.
For more information on how to have a healthy pregnancy, feel free to read: