Question: I’m expecting twins. How can I lower the risk of having a premature birth?

Answer: Most women carrying twins deliver at around 37 weeks, which is considered full term. The risk of very preterm birth (before 32 weeks) happens in less than six per cent of such mothers.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to prevent preterm birth. Complete bed rest hasn’t been shown to be effective, and may, in fact, be harmful.

More importantly, see your gynae immediately if you experience the following symptoms during a twin pregnancy. These are possible signs of a preterm delivery, and they include having a dull, lower backache or pressure on your lower belly, back or thighs. You may also feel period-like cramps, intermittent pains, more discharge, or fluid leaking from the vagina.