Multiple Pregnancy Complications: Remedies from Ayurveda & Yoga

By Dr. Nutan Pakhare

Multiple pregnancies are nothing short of miraculous. They occur when more than one baby develops in the womb during a single pregnancy. Socially however, multiple pregnancy complications is a topic of discussion that often gets swept under the carpet of excitement. Understanding the journey can help you prepare for what lies ahead, whether you expect twins, triplets, or more.

As a yoga and Garbhasanskar coach, I have collaborated closely with many expecting mothers, including celebrities. One such inspiring journey is that of Rubina Dilaik, who embraced her twin pregnancy with immense courage, grace, and poise. Even while managing her professional life and creating her heartfelt podcast, she has made conscious efforts to stay grounded through pregnancy yoga and Ayurvedic wellness practices, which I have been honoured to guide her through. Witnessing her dedication has shown how inner strength and ancient wisdom can empower modern motherhood.

multiple pregnancy complications of having twins
Image for representation purposes only (Unsplash)

Definition and Types of Multiple Pregnancies

A multiple pregnancy involves two or more fetuses. The most common type is twins, but some women may carry three (triplets), four (quadruplets), or even more babies. These can be classified as:

  • Identical (monozygotic): From a single fertilised egg that splits.
  • Fraternal (dizygotic): From two separate eggs fertilised by two different sperm.

Causes of Multiple Pregnancies


Natural Causes vs. Fertility Treatments

Multiple pregnancies may happen naturally, particularly in older mothers or those with a family history. However, the rise in fertility treatments like IVF (in vitro fertilisation) and ovulation-stimulating drugs has led to a significant increase in twins and triplets.

Role of Genetics and Family History

A family history, especially on the mother’s side, increases the likelihood of fraternal twins. The chances are higher if a woman is of African descent or over age 30, as older women may release more than one egg during ovulation.

Different Types of Multiple Pregnancies


Identical vs. Fraternal Twins
Identical twins share the same genetic makeup and usually look alike. They develop from one egg and one sperm. On the other hand, fraternal twins are genetically like regular siblings and may not look alike.

Triplets, Quadruplets, and Higher-Order Multiples
Higher-order multiples are less common but increasing. These pregnancies can result from fertility treatments or a single fertilised egg splitting multiple times. They carry higher health risks for both mothers and babies.

Health Risks & Complications of Multiple Pregnancies


For Mother

Women with multiple pregnancies are at a higher risk of complications, including:

  • Gestational diabetes
  • Preeclampsia
  • Preterm labour
  • Anaemia

For Babies

Multiples are more likely to be born prematurely and may face challenges such as:

  • Low birth weight
  • Respiratory distress
  • Neonatal intensive care (NICU) admission

Caesarean vs. Vaginal Births – Which is better?

Delivery decisions depend on fetal position, gestational age, and maternal health. Twins can often be delivered vaginally, but triplets and higher-order multiples usually require a C-section. Most multiples are born before 37 weeks, so NICU readiness is crucial. Hospitals with neonatal facilities offer the best outcomes.

Rubina Dilaik with Dr. Nutan Pakhare

Role of Ayurveda, Yoga and Garbhasanskar in Dealing with Multiple Pregnancy Complications


Ayurvedic View on Multiple Conception

In Ayurveda, the conception of twins or more is described in classical texts like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Multiple pregnancies are believed to result from specific conditions such as:

  • Dwi-beeja fertilisation: More than one ovum fertilised.
  • Dwi-garbhashaya: Uterus divided or hosting more than one embryo.
  • Increased Kapha and Shukra quality: High nourishment levels supporting more than one fetus.

Ayurvedic physicians emphasise balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) during pregnancy, as an imbalance can lead to complications like premature labour or poor fetal growth.

Ayurvedic Recommendations for Expecting Mothers

  1. Herbal Support:
    • Shatavari: Enhances uterine strength and milk production.
    • Ashwagandha: Supports mental stability and reduces stress.
    • Bala and Gokshura: Strengthen the pelvic region and improve energy.

2. Diet:

    • Warm, nourishing, and easily digestible food.
    • Ghee and milk preparations to nourish the mother and fetus.
    • Avoid spicy, stale, or overly dry foods to balance Vata.

3. Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

    • Regular sesame or coconut oil massage calms the nervous system and improves circulation.

Yoga for Multiple Pregnancy Complications

While caution is paramount during a multiple pregnancy, gentle yoga can:

  • Improve circulation
  • Reduce anxiety and promote calmness
  • Enhance pelvic strength and flexibility

Best Yoga Asanas (under supervision):

  • Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose)
  • Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) – using wall support
  • Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)

Avoid any posture that involves deep twists, compresses the abdomen, or overstretches.

Garbhasanskar: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Mothers

 

Garbhasanskar means “educating the fetus in the womb” and is a revered Ayurvedic practice. It is especially powerful in multiple pregnancies where maternal emotions and energies directly impact more than one fetus.

Core Elements of Garbhasanskar:

  • Positive thinking and emotional stability
  • Listening to Vedic chants or soft classical music
  • Reading spiritual texts or inspirational literature
  • Meditation and Pranayama like Anulom-Vilom to stabilise the mind

These practices enhance bonding with each baby, reduce stress, and may positively influence the babies’ temperament and intellect.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Multiples

Having multiples is a life-altering experience filled with challenges and joys. Parents can confidently navigate this journey with proper medical care, family support, ancient practices like Ayurveda and Garbhasanskar, and emotional balance through yoga.

Working as a coach for Rubina Dilaik during her twin pregnancy has been an enriching experience. Her commitment to maintaining mental clarity, spiritual connection, and physical wellness through yoga, Garbhasanskar, and Vedic practices—while managing a thriving career—has inspired many, including me as a doctor. This collaboration has reaffirmed holistic prenatal care’s profound impact on both mothers and babies.

If you are walking a similar path or guiding someone who is, let Rubina’s journey serve as a beacon: with the right mindset, authentic guidance, and nurturing practices, a twin pregnancy can be manageable and profoundly beautiful. If you need my help, I am happy to share all my experience, support, and guidance.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1: Can you have multiples without fertility treatment?
Yes, particularly if you have a family history or are over 30.

2: Are identical twins always the same gender?
Yes, because they share the same DNA.

3: What foods help during a multiple pregnancy?
Iron-rich, high-protein foods and prenatal vitamins support healthy development.

4: How early can twins be detected?
As early as 6-8 weeks with ultrasound.

5: Is it harder to breastfeed multiples?
Yes, but with guidance, many mothers succeed.

6: Do multiples develop at the same rate?
Not always; one may grow faster or be born heavier.