You may have had an emotional time finding out you are not only pregnant but also expecting multiples. Adjusting to the news mentally while physically meeting the demands of pregnancy can come with its share of highs and lows. Rest assured, it’s normal if you haven’t felt quite like yourself over the last couple of months.
Welcome to your last week of the first trimester!
This is a very exciting week for you and your babies, so let’s jump in and talk about what’s in store.
What’s new with your babies?
Multiples at 12 weeks weigh around 0.5 ounces and are roughly the size of a plum. Remember the little poppyseeds you found out about in the beginning? They’re really starting to fill out now!
Your babies aren’t just growing physically — they are also experiencing major neurological development. This week, your little ones’ reflexes are kicking into high gear. If you watch your babies on an ultrasound, you might see them curling their toes, opening and closing their hands, and even making suckling motions with their mouths.
Tap here to read more about how multiples occur.
How are you feeling?
Morning sickness and other first trimester symptoms are hopefully starting to wane which hopefully has you breathing easier now.
Emotionally, you may feel ready to deliver the news that you have a big surprise on the way! Remember, how you choose to share this information is entirely your decision. Some pregnant people spread the news only to close family, while others prefer to make an announcement on social media. There’s no right or wrong way to address your pregnancy, so go ahead with whatever feels most comfortable to you.
You might find your energy levels are on the rise. If you’re itching to release some of that energy, talk to your healthcare provider about implementing a prenatal exercise routine. Those who exercised before pregnancy are usually given the green light to continue their former regimens, but if you’re new to fitness, it’s best to speak with your provider about the safest options for getting started. Prenatal yoga, cycling, swimming, and walking are all low-impact ways to get your body moving.
First trimester screenings
Genetic screening is testing to determine if your babies are at elevated risk of having a genetic disorder. It doesn’t diagnose conditions, but rather alerts you to potential signs that the babies may have a condition. There are a few types available. One is a simple blood draw from you, known as Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS) or NIPT-T (testing instead of screening). Another test is an ultrasound of the babies’ nuchal folds (the skin at the back of their necks), along with a blood draw from you to measure certain hormone levels. Every pregnant person should be offered genetic screening during the first trimester of pregnancy. Ask your provider which test is best for you.
Some people prefer a more definitive type of test, known as a diagnostic test. Every pregnant person should be offered this as an option, regardless of their screening results or risk factors. If you desire diagnostic testing, there are two options. The first is called chorionic villus sampling, or CVS, which is offered between weeks 10 and 13 of pregnancy. The second is called an amniocentesis and is commonly done between 15 and 20 weeks (but can be done later). Ultimately, it is your decision whether you want this testing performed. If you have certain risk factors or if you’d like a more in-depth explanation, a genetic counselor can help you decide if these more invasive tests would be recommended in your circumstances.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Multifetal gestation: Twin, triplet, and higher order multifetal pregnancies.” National Guideline Clearinghouse. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, May 2014. Retrieved May 15 2021.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Twin pregnancy: What multiples mean for mom.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, Updated December 17 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/twin-pregnancy/art-20048161.
- “FAQ: Multiple pregnancy.” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, July 2015. Last reviewed: May 2025.
