Twin Pregnancy Symptoms Week by Week: What It Really Felt Like Carrying Twins to 36+4
Carrying twins is a completely different experience from a singleton pregnancy—physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this post, I'm sharing exactly what my twin pregnancy symptoms felt like, how my twin pregnancy belly grew, and how I stayed active all the way to 36+4. Whether you're newly pregnant with twins or deep into the third trimester, this guide will help you know what to expect and remind you that what you're feeling is normal.
👉 Navigating twin pregnancy and want personalized support? Check out my 1:1 coaching services to help you stay strong, comfortable, and confident through every week.
My Twin Pregnancy Story
When I found out I was carrying twins, I was terrified.
As a pelvic health physical therapist, I had spent years helping women prepare their bodies for pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery. But this was my first time living the experience—and it was two babies at once.
I knew I wanted to stay active during pregnancy, not for “bouncing back,” but because movement supports circulation, pelvic floor function, and mental health. But nothing could have prepared me for how quickly my twin pregnancy belly grew or how fast everyday tasks became challenging.
Here’s what my twin pregnancy symptoms actually felt like, broken down trimester by trimester.
Twin Pregnancy Symptoms: What I Actually Felt Week by Week
Every body and every twin pregnancy is different. But here's what mine looked like, broken down by trimester.
First Trimester Twin Pregnancy Symptoms (Weeks 1–13)
The first trimester hit me hard.
What I felt:
Extreme fatigue — Even more intense than what my singleton pregnancy friends described. I needed naps daily.
Intense nausea — Eating anything green felt impossible. I survived on bland carbs and whatever I could keep down.
The need to rest, but also move — I knew staying active mattered. I adjusted the intensity but continued with my go-exercises — running (yes, I ran), indoor cycling, walking, and strength training.
Twin mom tip: Your exhaustion isn’t in your head—your body is doing double the work. Rest without guilt.
Second Trimester Twin Pregnancy Symptoms (Weeks 14–27)
The second trimester is supposed to be the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy—and while my energy did return, things also ramped up quickly.
What I felt
Energy slowly returned, and I felt more like myself.
My belly popped early—much sooner than my singleton pregnancy friends.
SI joint pain started around 19 weeks, which was my cue to stop running.
How I adjusted
Continued strength training 2x/week.
Added gentle core work to support my pelvic floor.
Swapped running for walking, cycling, and mobility work.
Learn More About Exercise During Pregnancy Here - ACOG
Twin mom tip: This is your “window of opportunity” to build strength before your belly grows rapidly. Focus on core, glutes, posture, and breath.
Third Trimester Twin Pregnancy Symptoms (Weeks 28–36+4)
This is where twin pregnancy gets real.
What I felt:
Hip and low back discomfort as my belly grew heavier.
Sleep became difficult — I woke up with numb, tingling hands from nocturnal carpal tunnel.
Heartburn became intense, even with small meals.
Braxton Hicks with walking — by week 34, even short walks triggered tightening.
How I adjusted
Strength trained 2x/week until 34 weeks.
Switched to short walks, seated movements, and more rest as discomfort increased.
Prioritized comfort over maintaining a routine.
Twin mom tip: Movement is optional. Rest is productive. Your body is working harder than most people will ever understand.
Twin Pregnancy Belly: What It Actually Looked Like
Let's talk about the twin pregnancy belly—because it's one of the most visible (and often commented-on) parts of carrying twins.
Here's what I experienced:
Twin Pregnancy Belly Growth Timeline
Weeks 1–13: Not much visible change, but I felt bloated and uncomfortable
Weeks 14–20: Suddenly very pregnant-looking—much earlier than singleton moms
Weeks 21–28: Full-term looking to strangers; maternity clothes were essential
Weeks 29–36+4: Large, round, heavy — I could no longer see my feet.
People commented often—mostly out of curiosity, sometimes awkwardly, but usually with kindness. Your belly is doing exactly what it needs to: making room for two babies.
Learn More About Twin Pregnancy & What to Expect Here - March of Dimes
Twin Pregnancy Weight Gain: What's Normal?
Most twin moms gain 35–45 pounds, though your provider will guide what’s right for your body.
I gained within this range, even though I didn't always love being weighed. I felt huge, tired, and ready to meet my boys—but I also trusted the process. My body was doing remarkable work.
Twin mom tip: Fuel yourself well, follow your provider’s guidance, and remember: this weight is purposeful.
FAQs About Twin Pregnancy Symptoms
1. Can you have a vaginal birth with twins?
Yes! Depending on the babies' positions and your health, vaginal birth is absolutely possible with twins. Always discuss your options with your provider—every twin birth story is unique.
2. What's normal twin pregnancy weight gain?
Around 35–45 pounds is typical, but your provider will help guide what's best for your body and your babies.
3. When do most twin pregnancies deliver?
Many twin moms deliver between 36–37 weeks, though some earlier or later depending on circumstances. I carried my twins to 36+4, which felt like a major accomplishment.
4. How can I stay active safely during a twin pregnancy?
Prioritize breath work, posture, and pelvic floor-friendly twin pregnancy exercises. Avoid high-impact or heavy-load movements as your twin pregnancy belly grows. Listen to your body daily and adjust as needed.
Learn More About Exercise During Pregnancy Here - ACOG
5. Is it normal to feel more tired during twin pregnancy?
Absolutely. Your body is growing two babies and managing a lot of hormones. Extreme fatigue, especially in the first and third trimesters, is very common for twin moms.
Final Takeaway: What My Body Really Needed
Carrying twins taught me to listen to my body more than ever before. I learned that:
Strength matters, but gentleness matters more.
Rest is productive.
Your pelvic floor is your foundation.
Your belly will grow faster than you expect — and that’s completely normal.
Week by week, your body is doing something extraordinary.
Give yourself grace. Adjust often. And trust that your body knows exactly what it’s doing.
What You Learned About Twin Pregnancy Symptoms
Here's what we covered:
First trimester twin pregnancy symptoms: Extreme fatigue, intense nausea, and the need to rest (but also gently move)
Second trimester: Energy returns, your twin pregnancy belly pops fast, and this is your window to build strength with twin pregnancy exercises
Third trimester: Hips and back feel the weight, sleep is hard, heartburn is real, and even walking can trigger Braxton Hicks
Twin pregnancy belly growth: You'll look full-term much earlier than singleton moms—and that's completely normal
Staying active during twin pregnancy: Focus on breath work, pelvic floor connection, and adjusting your twin pregnancy workout routine as your body changes
Twin pregnancy weight gain: 35–45 pounds is typical, but your provider will guide what's right for you
Week by week, your body is doing something extraordinary—give yourself grace, rest when you need to, and trust the process
Want personalized guidance through your twin pregnancy?
Whether you're in the first trimester or preparing for delivery, I offer 1:1 coaching services to help you stay strong, comfortable, and confident. Learn more about working with me.
Disclaimer: This post is educational and not a substitute for medical care. If you have concerning symptoms, please consult your healthcare provider.