Symptoms and Diagnosis of Multiple Pregnancy
What are the symptoms of multiple pregnancy?
Each woman may have slightly different symptoms. But the most common symptoms of multiple pregnancy are:
-
Uterus is larger than expected for the dates in pregnancy
-
More morning sickness
-
Greater appetite
-
Too much weight gain, especially in early pregnancy
-
Babies' movements felt in different parts of the stomach at the same time
How is multiple pregnancy diagnosed?
Many women think they are pregnant with more than 1 baby. The healthcare provider may diagnose multiple babies early in pregnancy. This is especially true if fertility treatments were used. The provider may make the diagnosis with a health history, physical exam, and the following tests:
-
Pregnancy blood testing. Levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may be quite high with multiple pregnancy.
-
Alpha-fetoprotein. Levels of a protein released by the fetal liver and found in the mother's blood may be high when more than 1 baby is making the protein.
-
Ultrasound. This is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds can be done with a vaginal probe (transducer), especially in early pregnancy. Or they can be done with an abdominal probe in later pregnancy.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Janet Campbell RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Robyn Zercher FNP
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.