Finding out you’re expecting a baby is exciting, but discovering you’re carrying twins or multiples adds a whole new level of surprise. Many parents wonder if an ultrasound can detect twins early in pregnancy and what to expect during the scan. If you’re curious about when and how twins are detected, this guide breaks it all down in simple terms.
How Early Can an Ultrasound Detect Twins?
Ultrasound technology allows healthcare providers to confirm a twin pregnancy, but the timing matters.
- Early Detection (6–8 weeks): A first ultrasound, often called a dating scan, can sometimes show two heartbeats. However, in the earliest weeks, one baby may be harder to see.
- More Accurate Results (10–12 weeks): By the end of the first trimester, an ultrasound provides a clearer view, confirming twins or multiples with greater accuracy.
- Second Trimester (18–22 weeks): This is when most parents find out they’re expecting twins. The anatomy scan provides a detailed look at each baby’s development.
What to Expect During an Ultrasound for Twins
An ultrasound for a twin pregnancy is similar to a single-baby scan but takes a little longer. Here’s what happens:
- A technician applies gel to your belly and uses a small device called a transducer to capture images.
- If the scan is very early, a transvaginal ultrasound may be used for better clarity.
- The technician will check for two separate heartbeats, two amniotic sacs, or a shared placenta.
- You may see your babies moving or even interacting on the screen.
Signs That You Might Be Expecting Twins
Before an ultrasound confirms multiples, some signs might hint at a twin pregnancy:
- Higher hCG levels: Pregnancy hormone levels can be elevated with twins.
- More intense symptoms: Stronger morning sickness, fatigue, and faster weight gain.
- Larger uterus: Your doctor may notice that your uterus is measuring larger than expected for your due date.
- Family history: Twins are more common in families with a history of multiple births.
How Accurate Are Ultrasounds in Detecting Twins?
Ultrasounds are highly accurate, but early scans can sometimes miss a twin. This is known as the “vanishing twin syndrome,” where one baby may not continue developing. By the second trimester, an ultrasound provides a near-definitive answer about the number of babies you’re expecting.
Where to Get an Ultrasound for Twin Pregnancies
If you suspect twins or need a confirmation scan, booking an ultrasound appointment is the best step. Look for a prenatal ultrasound clinic that specializes in accurate ultrasound for multiple pregnancies. Many facilities offer affordable prenatal ultrasound services with options like 3D ultrasound for twins for a closer look at your babies.
Schedule Your Twin Ultrasound Today
If you’re eager to confirm a twin pregnancy, schedule a twin ultrasound scan with a trusted provider. At Valence Medical Imaging in Toronto, our experienced team provides high-quality prenatal ultrasound services in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re looking for an early pregnancy ultrasound near you or want to verify twin pregnancy with ultrasound, we’re here to help. Book an ultrasound appointment today to get the answers you need.
