22 Fascinating Facts About Twins and Top Products for Parents of Multiples

22 Fascinating Facts About Twins

Twins hold a special place in society's fascination. Whether identical or fraternal, twins capture our imagination in ways singleton births do not. From developing secret languages to sharing a special bond, twins display some amazing behaviors and characteristics.

As the twin birth rate continues rising, more expecting parents are eager to learn about these unique siblings. Discover 22 fascinating facts about twins that make them so wonderful and wacky.

1. A Twin Gene Exists

A gene involved in egg separation has been identified that increases a woman's chance of giving birth to fraternal twins. Called the "twin gene," it causes hyperovulation or releasing multiple eggs per month. However, having the gene does not guarantee twins.

2. Some Twins Start Bonding in the Womb

Twins interact and make contact with each other in the womb. Ultrasounds reveal twins playing, touching, and hugging before birth. This early connection may explain their closeness and special bond as twins.

3. Identical Twins Share Nearly Identical DNA

Identical or monozygotic twins share over 99.9% of the same DNA. Minor differences result from unique mutations and environmental factors after birth. But otherwise, they are genetic copies of each other.

4. Twins Can Be Born Years Apart

In rare cases, a mother can deliver non-identical twins with a substantial age gap. This results from getting pregnant again while still carrying the first baby. Irish twins born within a year are much more common.

5. Some Twins Have Separate Fathers

It is possible but extremely rare for fraternal twins to have different fathers. They must come from separate eggs fertilized within the same ovulation cycle by sperm from two men during sex.

6. Left-Handedness Is More Common in Twins

Identical twins often mirror each other's features and preferences. This results in a much higher rate of left-handedness compared to the general population. However, fraternal twins show no difference in handedness.

7. Twins Tend to Have Lower IQ Scores

Studies show the average IQ for twins is about 5 points lower than singletons. However, when controlling for factors like premature birth, the difference shrinks to 2 points and is negligible.

8. Twins Have a Secret Language

Up to 50% of twins invent their own language. Called idioglossia, it allows secret communication. However, most invent gibberish rather than a true language. It disappears as their vocabulary expands.

9. Identical Twins' Risks Differ As Adults

Due to different lifestyle choices, identical twins' risks for diseases like cancer increasingly differ through adulthood. Factors like smoking and sun exposure alter their genetic likeness over time.

10. Twins Run in Families

Have twins in your family? You may be more likely to have them too. But it depends on the mother's genetics, not the father's. Fraternal twinning is passed down on the maternal side.

11. Twins Share Blood Vessels in the Womb

Identical twins can be conjoined or share parts of placentas. Even when they have separate placentas, they often have intersecting blood vessels allowing blood to mix between them.

12. Vanishing Twin Syndrome Occurs

Vanishing twin syndrome is when one fetus dies in early pregnancy and gets absorbed. Estimates suggest it happens in 20-30% of twin pregnancies. The remaining twin is rarely impacted.

13. Twins Have High Rates of Depression

Loss of a twin is traumatic at any age. But even as adults, twins report more depression, grief and loneliness than singletons. However, most cope well and lead normal lives.

14. Older Mothers Have More Twins

A mother's odds of birthing twins increases with age due to hormonal changes. Women over 35 have significantly higher fraternal twin rates, but identical rates hold steady across age.

15. Taller Women Have More Twins

Taller women with BMI's near the healthy range tend to have higher twin birth rates. The exact reason is unknown but may relate to Insulin-like Growth Factor production.

16. Twins Have High Rates of ADHD

Both fraternal and identical twins have elevated rates of ADHD compared to singletons. However, twins also get diagnosed with ADHD more frequently when symptoms may be from premature birth.

17. Twins Have ESP-Like Abilities

Accounts exist of twins seeming to sense each other's pain or emotions at a distance. While anecdotal, one theory is electrical brain impulses may transmit between them.

18. Fertility Drugs Boost Twin Rates

Use of fertility treatments like IVF have substantially increased twinning rates, especially fraternal twins from multiple eggs. However, not every twin birth results from medical intervention.

19. Twins Struggle to Build Individuality

Despite perceiving themselves as separate people, twins fight being defined by their twinship. Developing unique identities and interests helps them feel regarded as individuals.

20. Identical Twins Have Nearly Identical Fingerprints

Fingerprints develop randomly in the womb. While identical twins' prints appear identical at first glance, minute differences exist upon closer inspection.

21. Twins Share Close Social Circles

Twins gravitate to the same friend groups and share overlapping social circles. However, a healthy rivalry and desire for independence also causes them to cultivate separate friends.

22. Parents Struggle Telling Identical Twins Apart

Telling identical twins apart can be challenging for parents initially. Small identifying marks, nail polish, or color-coded bracelets are handy for avoiding mix-ups.

Top Twin Products for Parents

From strollers to baby monitors, raising twins requires specialized gear for managing and bonding with two babies at once. Here are some of the top twin products recommended by parents:

Double Strollers

A double stroller allows pushing both twins in a single unit. Side-by-side and tandem (front-back) designs offer versatile options from leading brands.

Baby Carriers

Baby wearing helps parents bond with twins and attend to their needs. Carriers like wraps, slings and structured carriers adapted for two babies facilitate closeness.

Car Seat Frame Strollers

Snap car seats onto a sturdy frame to create an instant double travel system. It allows on-the-go convenience without moving babies in and out of seats.

High Chairs

Double high chairs let twins eat together in adjustable seats. Many feature trays, harnesses and footrests for safe, comfortable feedings.

Cribs

Sharing a crib allows twins to room-in together initially. Individual cribs in the same room often follow as babies grow. Some convert to toddler beds.

Baby Monitors

Multi-camera monitors enable watching both twins at once. Split-screen viewing and scan features highlight important sights and sounds.

Play Mats

Dual play mats encourage babies' early development together through sounds, textures and activities. Portable types fold for on-the-go use.

Bathing Tubs

Bathe twins side-by-side in double tubs with bath pillows, toys and accessories for comfort and activity. Or use two standalone tubs.

Diaper Bags

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.