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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Yong Moma | Posted under Pregnancy
Twin Ultrasound - How Early?
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There are a couple of early clues for determining if you are carrying twins. One is the ultrasound and the other is the testing hCG levels. If you are carrying twins these levels are often elevated and it can be done about 18 days after ovulation. In a singe gestation it runs about 70 mIU while in a twin gestation it runs about 200 mIU. Now understand this isn't full proof but it is a good indicator. Modern technology has presented us with some other options and one very popular option being the ultrasound. In fact these days it is an essential part of any woman's pregnancy care. The ultrasound can actually detect twins as early as the first trimester so no more late surprises for the parents. And it's almost 100% accurate when it comes to diagnosing twins. The accuracy goes down as the number of babies climbs. If you are pregnant as a result of in vitro fertilization there is a good change that you will be carrying multiple fetuses and your doctor will usually order an ultrasound as early as four weeks. Telling whether your twins will be identical is another dilemma that's not so easily resolved. In fact chances are you won't know until the actual births of your babies. If your babies share a placenta they are identical twins and sometimes this is seen in the ultrasound. If the ultrasound shows two sacs you babies may or may not be identical as identical twins can be in separate sacks. During your ultrasound the technician will apply a conductive gel. A portable transducer probe will then slowly be applied across the abdomen. The sound waves will take pictures of the womb and the fetus. Two heartbeats can be easily heard long before the bodies are seen. Two heads is usually the next most common clue that's picked up with the ultrasound. If the uterus is larger than normal after 16 weeks then there is a good chance that you are carrying twins and an ultrasound should be done again. Once twins have been confirmed the next step is to determine whether the twins are conjoined, fraternal, or identical. A DNA test can be used to determine the zygosity of the twins. The DNA is extracted from blood and then an electrophoresis test is then done. If the bands match the twins are identical. In 2000 there were just over 100,000 twin births in the United States but that number has grown dramatically. Many of these multiple births are a result of fertility drugs which has increased the number of multiple births significantly. Twins is a pretty exciting adventure to look forward. And it's wonderful that you can have plenty of time to prepare for their births. A twin ultrasound is a great way to find out early and have plenty of time to adjust. About The Author: Yong has been working for a leading ultrasound manufacturer for last 8 years. At At http://www.ultrasoundlive.com he has provide information about different types of utlrassound equipments. Visit the website to get more information about ultrasound equipment and accessories. |
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