Hey twinny ladies can I have a bit of your wisdom please :)

[PeckaRolloverAgain]

I am a doula and am currently working with a couple expecting twins.

She is now 35 weeks and has called me today to say that for the last day or so she has been getting contractions that are getting progressively more painful but not yet regular.

I know twins are expected earlier but is 35 weeks considered premature for twins? Would the hospital try to delay her labour or give steroids for the babies lungs?

Thanks!

Morning. Both sets of my twins were born at 38 weeks and 40 weeks at very good weights, so don't no much about the steroid injections. But term for twins is 37 weeks if i remember correctly.

I am sure someone with more wisdom will be along soon to help.

Babies born earlier than 37 weeks are considered premature. They generally give steriods before 34 weeks so your client should escape this rather painful experience (after my second round I couldn't sit on one cheek for about 8 hours)

All the mums I met in the neonatal unit that had 35 weekers plus had few problems. The babies sucking reflex is generally strong enough by then to take some or all feeds from breast or bottle. They might even escape incubators - a lot depends on their weight and their ability to maintain their body temperature.

You can find lots of excellent info on caring for prems on the Bliss website.

mine were 35 weekers - they did have the injection - and I think most hospitals would probably prefer to give it - but I think it is pretty borderline.

37 weeks is term for twins. Mine were born at that time and were small and vulnerable looking (what newborn isn't tho?!) but not considered premature. It was hard to feed them tho cos they were weak and sleepy and breast milk supply took a while to come in... Jaundice was an issue too.

I think it can vary by hospital too. My hospital were determined to get me over 38 weeks, anything before that was considered early. I'm not sure what they would do, sorry.

I recently delivered twins and my ob organised the steroid injection at 27 weeks in case the twins were prem. I had 2 injections (painless) in backside 24hrs apart and the steroid takes effect I think 24hrs after the second jab. My twins arrived at 37 + 5 weeks so not too bad and lungs were fine. I would advise getting jabs done asap. Had them done privately and was charged £25 per jab which is affordable if your client had to organise it privately or pay for the prescription. Hope all goes well.

Hey Chicpea and accordiongirl come join us www.mumsnet.com/Talk?topicid=1216&threadid=335404&stamp=070621194801 let's talk twins and triplets etc