How Can I Get Pregnant With Twins?
Couples are waiting longer than ever before to have children. However, this can present challenges when couples desire more than one child and the window for biologically optimal childbearing is waning. Getting pregnant with multiples can be a solution to growing a family with less time available. Although IVF, or in vitro fertilization, doesn't guarantee multiples, there's evidence that indicates multiple births are more likely with IVF. Ovulation induction and IUI, or intrauterine insemination, are other potential solutions for couples wishing to conceive multiples.
IVF and Multiples
In vitro fertilization is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that improves a couple's chances of conception. By placing an already fertilized embryo within a woman's uterus, ideally, the embryo will attach to the uterine wall and begin to grow into a healthy fetus. Typically, more than one embryo is placed due to the significant chances that one or more embryos will not implant successfully. If more than one embryo does attach, multiple births are more likely.
Using Ovulation Induction to Get Pregnant with Twins
Ovulation induction doesn't get nearly the same amount of attention that IVF does, but it's still a viable treatment for infertility and may also increase a couple's chances of getting pregnant with twins. Ovulation induction involves the use of special fertility medicine that increases the number of ovulations per menstrual cycle. While helpful for women who struggle to ovulate on their own, this treatment can also give hope to couples desiring a twin pregnancy. If two or more eggs are released at once and become fertilized, multiple births may become a reality.
Does IUI Help Increase the Chances of Multiples?
IUI, or intrauterine insemination, is a simple procedure that may be used in combination with other fertility treatments or alone. Once called artificial insemination, IUI involves the delivery of treated sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of conception. Alone, the procedure is unlikely to increase the chances of having multiples. However, when used in combination with other fertility treatments, like ovulation induction, the likelihood of getting pregnant with twins increases.
Contact an Experienced Fertility Specialist Today
The desire to have twins -- or even triplets -- is not uncommon. Many couples desire multiple births for a variety of different reasons. Whether you want to grow your family quickly or you desire siblings the same age, multiple pregnancies can help you achieve your goals. Contact a fertility specialist to learn more about your options.
Dr. Gregory Zapantis is committed to holistic and compassionate care for each one of his patients. He will design a fertility program based on your specific needs and goals and will guide you through each step of the process. Call today for a consultation at (516) 757-7673.
