Twins Develop a Special Bond Starting in the Womb
Twins start interacting long before they are born. At just 8 weeks of gestation, twins can be seen touching each other in the womb. By 14 weeks they will begin sucking on each other's fingers and hands. This early connection leads to the close relationships many twins share.
Twins Interact and Bond Before Birth
Ultrasounds have captured some adorable moments of twins reaching out to each other in the womb. They will often be seen holding hands, hugging, and touching each other's faces. This time together helps them form a close bond long before they meet their parents or siblings.
Playing and Cuddling in the Womb
In addition to holding hands, twins can be seen on ultrasound pushing off of each other and seemingly playing together. They also spend a lot of time cuddling. This interaction provides stimulation and comfort as they grow.
Some Twins Create Their Own Language
It is estimated that up to 50% of twins invent their own language, called "cryptophasia" or "twin talk." This enables them to communicate in ways only the two of them can understand. Their private lexicon can contain made-up words or be completely unintelligible to others.
Secret Codes and Gestures
Twin speak may involve unique pronunciations, phrases, or gestures that have meaning just between the pair. Experts believe this early language bonding arises from the intense connection twins have from gestation.
Lasting Impact on Relationships
While most twin talk fades as twins learn conventional language, many twins retain special verbal or non-verbal communication methods. This contributes to the lifelong tight relationships many twins share.
Mirror Image Twins Have Asymmetrical Features
While "mirror image" twins may appear identical when facing each other, their features are actually asymmetrical. What may look like a right dimple or hair whorl on one twin will be on the opposite side for the other in mirror twins.
Flipped Features
If one twin has a birthmark on their left arm, their mirror twin will have that same mark on the right arm. Freckles, moles, teeth eruption patterns, and other traits will also be flipped.
A Rare Twin Phenomenon
Only about 25% of identical twins are mirror images. This occurs when the fertilized egg splits later than usual, around 9-12 days after conception rather than before day 5.
Twins Can Be Born Years Apart
Normally, twins are born minutes or hours apart, but in very rare cases twins have been delivered years apart. This is due to one embryo implanting normally while the other is cryopreserved as an embryo or through an ectopic pregnancy.
Embryo Freezing
With IVF, leftover embryos may be frozen for later use. If one implanted embryo splits into identical twins, the second twin could be born years later after the frozen embryo is thawed and transferred.
Ectopic Pregnancy
In abnormal ectopic pregnancies, an embryo gets trapped outside the womb. In rare cases, the ectopic embryo survives but does not grow. Years later it may become dislodged and implant in the uterus, leading to a twin birth with a huge age gap.
Twins Grieve When Their Co-Twin Dies
The loss of a twin is a devastating trauma. Twins share a deep connection, starting from conception. When one twin dies, the surviving twin will often experience depression and grief at the loss of their lifelong companion.
Profound Sadness
The surviving twin struggles with not only the loss of their womb-mate but also their identity. Parents and family members should provide extra support and grief counseling during this difficult time.
Honoring Their Bond
Continuing traditions the twins shared and reminiscing about positive memories can help the healing process. Many twins feel their deceased twin remains a part of them.
FAQs
Why do some twins make up their own language?
Twins invent their own "twin talk" language because of their extremely close bond formed in the womb. This enables them to communicate in unique ways only the two of them understand. It likely arises from their intense connection during gestation.
Can twins really be born years apart?
Yes, but it is extremely rare. If one IVF embryo splits into twins, one could implant years later after being cryopreserved. An ectopic twin embryo trapped outside the womb could also become dislodged and implant years later.
Are all identical twins mirror images?
No, only about 25% of identical twins have asymmetric or "flipped" features. This happens when the fertilized egg splits later, around 9-12 days after conception, creating mirror image twins.
How do twins mourn if their co-twin dies?
Losing their twin is profoundly devastating and traumatic. The grief process is intense, as they lose their lifelong companion and part of their identity. Continuing traditions, reminiscing positively, and counseling help, but the survivor twin will always feel the loss.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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