How to Conceive Twins – Natural Ways & Medical Methods

Giving birth to a child is one of the most rewarding experiences for a woman. Some bring double happiness into their lives with twins. While most twin pregnancies are unplanned, having twins isn’t always lucky. So, how to get a twin? You can increase your chances of having twins ( or even triplets) if you take certain measures, such as consuming certain herbs and different sex positions. While genetics plays a significant role in determining the likelihood of having twins, there are various natural ways to boost the chances of conceiving twins. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remember that having twins can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Please remember that there’s no sure-shot way of conceiving twins, but ways to increase the likelihood of conceiving twins. Read more to learn more about how to have twins.

How to Get Pregnant With Twins?

There are two kinds of twins: identical and fraternal (1).

Fraternal twins, also known as dizygotic twins, are developed when the sperm fertilises two eggs. These twins are usually of opposite genders. They don’t share the same placenta or even the same genetic makeup.

Identical twins share the same placenta and the same genes. Also known as monozygotic twins, the gender of the twins is usually the same, with a few exceptions. In this case, the sperm fertilises an egg that later splits into separate embryos.

Many people searching for how to fall pregnant with twins often want to understand these differences, as the chances of conceiving identical and fraternal twins vary.

Some General Odds of Having Twins

Having twins is a fascinating phenomenon in about 1 in every 30 births worldwide. While the odds of having twins may vary depending on age, genetics, and ethnicity, general odds apply to most women.

For instance, the chances of having twins are higher for older women, particularly those over 35. Additionally, women with a family history of twins or who have given birth to twins are more likely to have twins again in subsequent pregnancies.

Furthermore, certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans and Nigerians, have a higher incidence of twinning than other populations. However, it’s essential to note that having twins comes with a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, so it’s crucial to seek appropriate medical care and advice from a healthcare provider.

Despite the potential challenges, having twins can be a unique and rewarding experience for families, and seeing two little bundles of joy grow and thrive is immeasurable. If you’re wondering how to conceive twins naturally, read ahead to know more.

Factors That Increase Your Chances of Conceiving Twins

Studies show that women with a family history of twins are more likely to conceive twins themselves. Furthermore, the socio-environmental factors, maternal age, increase in the spontaneous abortion rate, and increase in the use of contraceptives are among other factors that could influence the twinning rate (2). Here is the detailed information for better understanding:

1. Multiple Pregnancies

If you have had a previous pregnancy, there may be a higher chance of having twins. This possibility may improve with the number of pregnancies. However, it is not certain that it will do (3).

2. Weight

Studies have shown that women with a body mass index (BMI) above 30 are more likely to conceive twins compared to women with a lower BMI (4).

3. Heredity

Genetics has a lot to do with having twins (5). If you have a twin sibling or a history of twins in your family, your likelihood of having twins is increased. If you or your mother is a twin, or your mother’s side has a history of fraternal twins, your chances of having twins are elevated, as there’s a higher probability of hyperovulation, which involves releasing two eggs during ovulation (4).

However, it’s essential to note that if your partner has a twin or a family history of twins, it won’t influence your own chances of having twins, as this genetic predisposition primarily rests with the person who produces the eggs, i.e., the mother.

4. Maternal Age

Women above the age of 35 are more likely to have non-identical twins because they produce more follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) than younger women, and they’re more likely to release more than one egg during ovulation (6). How is this related to having twins? Let us explain. This hormone supports the release of high amounts of eggs during ovulation. The more the hormone, the more the chances of eggs being released during ovulation, which may lead to the possibility of having multiple fetuses.

5. Ethnicity

Your race plays an important role, as well. As per the University of Rochester Medical Center, African-American individuals assigned female at birth have a higher likelihood of having twins compared to other racial groups, like Asian Americans and Native Americans, who have the lowest rates of twin births. When it comes to higher-order multiple births, such as triplets or more, individuals assigned females at birth who are White in origin have the highest rates, particularly if they are older than 35 (7).

6. Fertility Treatments

Some fertility treatments, like IVF, can drastically increase your chances of becoming pregnant with twins, as more than one embryo may be transferred (8).

How to Have Twins Naturally

If you’re wondering how to increase your chances of getting pregnant with twins, try these natural ways:

1. Delay Your Next Pregnancy

A sufficient gap between pregnancies may increase the chances of conceiving twins. Please note that since there is no controlled study, there is a likelihood that this may not hold true.

2. Increase Your Consumption of Dairy Products

It is believed that the growth hormones present in milk (dairy from cows with growth hormone treatment) may help in conceiving twins. This statement is supported by a 2006 study published in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine that concluded that genotypes promoting higher IGF levels and diets rich in dairy products, particularly in regions where cattle are treated with growth hormones, seem to increase the likelihood of multiple pregnancies through ovarian stimulation. It also resulted that vegan women (who do not consume dairy) planning to conceive twins have only 1/5th of the twinning rate of vegetarians and non-vegetarian women (9) (10).

3. Ask Your Partner to Consume Zinc-Rich Foods

Since zinc-rich foods accelerate the production of sperm, your partner may ask him to consume zinc-rich foods, such as yoghurt, pumpkin seeds, and lamb (11). Increased sperm production may help with the probability of fertilising more than one egg.

4. Eat Protein-Rich Foods

Since a lot of your chances of conceiving twins depend upon hyperovulation, protein-rich foods may be helpful to promote the same. Whole grains, tofu, and especially yams may help hyper-stimulate your ovaries.

Apart from genetics, diet is another factor that is believed to have influenced the high twinning rate in southwest Nigeria, as mentioned in the 2008 study. Yam (Discorea sp.) is generally believed to have a natural hormone called phytoestrogen, which may have helped stimulate multiple ovulation in Yoruba people (2).

5. Take Folic Acid Supplements

Folic acid supplements are highly regarded for preventing neural tube defects in the fetus when supplemented during pregnancy. However, there is a common misconception around twinning and folic acid intake. Highly debated, but the association of preconceptional folate supplement intake and twinning has not yielded any significant results. It is recommended to consult your doctor for a better understanding.

Fertility Treatments That Can Result in Twins

As per the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the risk of multiple gestation with IVF with a single embryo transfer is as low as 3% (1 in 33), whereas it is 30% (1 in 3) with gonadotropins, which boosts ovulation (12). You would have a better shot at conceiving twins if you chose fertility treatments over natural methods. Some of the treatments are:

1. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

This method is usually teamed with fertility drugs to boost chances. In simple terms, sperm is injected directly into the uterus, which may fertilise more eggs than in the natural method.

2. IVF (In-vitro Fertilization)

In this treatment, the number of embryos placed in the uterus may make a difference. Since multiple embryos are implanted, the likelihood of more than one embryo surviving may increase. However, it is important to remember that IVF does not always help conceive identical twins, as the chances of fertilising more than one egg through this method are purely hit-and-miss.

Fertility Supplements and Drugs to Conceive Twins

Sometimes, it’s best to combine two methods for better results. As mentioned above, IUI is an excellent example of teaming treatment and drugs to enhance the chances of conceiving twins. The basic idea behind the fertility drugs or supplements, such as Clomifene citrate (Clomid), Metformin, and Gonadotrophins, is that they will regulate hormones while also promoting a healthy reproductive system.

Listed below are fertility supplements and drugs that can help boost the process.

A) Drugs

Certain fertility drugs can increase the chances of conceiving twins.

1. Gonadotropin

Certain medications can increase the likelihood of conceiving twins by promoting the health and maturation of eggs. Gonadotropins, in particular, may stimulate the release of multiple eggs simultaneously. Although considered under Pregnancy Category C with the potential to cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women, Chorionic Gonadotropin therapy, if done before conception, may stimulate multiple ovulations with multiple gestations (mostly twins) in about 20% of pregnancies (13). It is to be noted that gonadotrophins also pose a risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in women (14). 

2. Clomiphene or Clomiphene Citrate

Clomiphene is an oral medication that allows the body to increase the production of hormones that help the eggs mature in the ovaries, thereby increasing the chances of a multiple pregnancy.

B) Supplements

Some supplements can help support fertility and prepare the body for pregnancy.

1. Progesterone

This is also known as the pregnancy hormone and is crucial in sustaining pregnancy.

2. Folic Acid Supplements

This helps eliminate congenital disabilities, especially those related to the spine and nervous system.

Fertility Herbs for Having Twins

Here are a few useful fertility herbs that can boost your chances of conceiving twins.

1. Liquorice Root

This sweet little herb is known to be quite a champion in helping to conceive. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle while regulating hormonal levels, thereby improving fertilisation.

2. Maca Root

This herb accelerates fertility in both females and males, thereby improving the chances of conceiving twins.

3. Flaxseed Oil

This helps not just in creating a hormonal balance but also promotes better fertility in females. It also helps in regulating the menstrual cycle, thereby aiding ovulation and making conception easier.

4. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil is known to promote the health of the cervical mucus, which might help the sperm survive within the ovary for a longer time.

5. Sweet Cassava

Sweet cassava is thought to help with hyperovulation, thereby increasing the possibilities of multiple fetuses.

6. Chaste Tree Berry

Vitex, or chaste tree berry, is believed to improve hormonal levels and promote ovulatory function, which benefits fertilisation.

7. Black Cohosh

This is another natural herb that is believed to promote fertility.

Please Note: Since these are herbs that have gone through limited scientific research, it is recommended to consult a doctor or herbalist first before taking any of the medical drugs, supplements, and herbs.

Do Specific Sex Positions Help to Conceive Twins?

While there are no guarantees when conceiving twins, some believe that certain sex positions may increase the chances of conceiving or having twins. Here are four positions on this topic:

1. Doggy Style Position: Some studies have found that the doggy style position may increase the likelihood of having twins. This is because it allows for deeper penetration, increasing the chances of the sperm fertilising both eggs.
2. Missionary Position: Another study suggests that the missionary position may also increase the chances of having twins. This position allows for closer sperm-to-egg proximity, which may increase the likelihood of fertilising both eggs.
3. Standing Up: The standing up position during intercourse has also been linked to an increased chance of having twins. This is because gravity can help the sperm travel faster and more efficiently towards the eggs, increasing the chances of multiple fertilisations.

Despite the studies, it’s important to note that there is no scientific evidence to conclusively prove that sex positions can determine the gender of your baby or increase your chances of having twins. Many factors contribute to the likelihood of having twins, including genetics, age, and fertility treatments. Therefore, it’s always best to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking medical advice if you’re trying to conceive twins.

What Are the Risks of Conceiving Twins?

Twin pregnancies come with their own risks. Some of them are (15):

Fetal Complications

• Low birth weight
• Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
• Premature delivery
• Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)
• Stillbirth
• Congenital disabilities like cerebral palsy and autism

Maternal Complications

• Gestational diabetes
• Hypertensive Disorders
• Anaemia
• Preeclampsia
• Sciatica and Low back pain
• Need for a C-section

FAQs

1. How common is it to have twins?

Twins are fairly uncommon, at least in India. But with fertility treatments increasing the incidence of twins, the numbers are constantly increasing.

2. I have twins in my family. Does that increase my chances?

Genetics play an important role, and you stand a good chance of conceiving twins if there is a pair in your family. However, even genetics doesn’t come with a guarantee.

3. What are the facts and myths of having twins?

Whether you are trying to conceive twins or merely exploring the possibility, you will come across several myths. Some of them are listed below:

• Myth 1: Therapies, such as aromatherapy, acupuncture, naturopathy, and chiropractic procedures, increase the chances of having twins. However, this is all a myth.
• Myth 2: Many people believe that men inherit their genes from their mothers, so they may pass the same genes to their daughters, who may give birth to twins in the next generation. So, twins skip a generation. However, this is all a belief and a myth.
• Myth 3: Eating proteins and dairy products accelerates ovulation. However, it does not guarantee conceiving twins.

4. Can I deliver twins through natural birth?

Yes, it is possible to deliver twins through natural birth. However, it depends on various factors, such as the position of the babies in the womb, the mother’s health, and the progress of labour. In some cases, a cesarean section may be necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and the babies.

5. Can I conceive twins if I am breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding does not increase your chances of conceiving twins. However, breastfeeding may suppress ovulation, making it less likely for you to conceive. It’s essential to remember that the chances of having twins are primarily determined by genetics and other factors, such as age and fertility treatments.

6. Are tall women more likely to have twins?

There is no strong scientific evidence that states that tall women are more likely to have twins. While genetics, maternal age, and fertility treatments significantly influence twin pregnancies, height, in particular, is not considered a determining factor.

While getting pregnant with twins can prove to be quite challenging, you can surely attempt the above-mentioned methods if you have your heart set on having twins.

Also Read:

Types of Twins in Pregnancy
Twins Delivery – All You Must Know
Healthy Diet Plan for Twin Pregnancy
Twin Pregnancy: Symptoms & Key Signs
Foods That Increase Your Chances of Conceiving Twins

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Sources References

1. OASH – Twins, triplets, and other multiples

2. PubMed Central – Frequency of twinning in southwest Nigeria

3. BetterHealth Channel – Twins – identical and fraternal

4. Cleveland Clinic – Twin Pregnancy

5. MedlinePlus – Is the probability of having twins determined by genetics?

6. NHS – Pregnant with twins

7. URMC – Overview of Multiple Pregnancy

8. The Ohio State University – What increases the odds of having twins?

9. PubMed – Mechanisms of twinning: VII. Effect of diet and heredity on the human twinning rate

10. EurekAlert – Study finds that a woman’s chances of having twins can be modified by diet

11. Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology – Impact of seminal and serum zinc on semen quality and hormonal status: A population-based cohort study of Russian young men

12. American Society for Reproductive Medicine – FERTILITY DRUGS AND THE RISK OF MULTIPLE BIRTHS

13. APP – CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN 

14. HFEA – Fertility drugs

15. Brigham and Women’s Hospital – Multiple Pregnancy Complications