Can You Naturally Boost Your Chances of Having Twins? Gynecologist Explains

There’s something fascinating about twins. The idea of two babies growing together often captures people’s curiosity. Many couples even wonder if there’s a way to plan or boost their chances of having twins naturally. But here’s the thing: a lot of what you read online mixes myth with fact. Some believe eating yams or dairy might increase the odds, while others think it’s all in the genes. 

To separate the science from the speculation, we spoke to Dr Shalini Aggarwal, Principal Consultant – Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Indirapuram. She explains what actually determines whether you have twins.

Understanding Twins: Identical vs Fraternal

Before diving into what influences twin pregnancies, it’s important to know that there are two main types of twins. Dr Aggarwal explains, “One is identical and the other is fraternal.” She adds, “Identical twins are formed when one fertilised egg splits into two. Both babies share the same genetic material and look exactly alike. Fraternal twins, on the other hand, happen when two separate eggs are fertilised by two different sperm on the same day.”

In simpler terms:

• Identical twins: One egg, split into two. Happens randomly.
• Fraternal twins: Two eggs, two sperm. Influenced by several factors.

Fraternal twins are more common than identical twins, and most of the “twin-boosting” factors apply only to fraternal twinning.

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Factors That Increase the Chances of Having Twins

Dr Aggarwal says there’s no sure-shot way to make twins happen naturally, but there are certain factors that can raise the likelihood.

1. Family history and genes

“The genetic factor plays a role only in fraternal twins,” says Dr Aggarwal. “This tendency runs in the maternal line, meaning if your mother or grandmother had twins, your chances of having twins are higher.”

2. Age of the mother

With age, especially after 30, women start releasing more than one egg during ovulation. Dr Aggarwal explains that this increases the possibility of fraternal twins because more eggs are available for fertilisation at once.

3. Number of previous pregnancies

If a woman has been pregnant multiple times before, her chances of having twins go up slightly. “The more pregnancies a woman has had, the higher the chances of releasing more eggs in her later cycles,” says Dr Aggarwal.

4. Race and ethnicity

“Certain races, especially Africans, and among them, West Africans and Nigerians, have higher chances of having twins,” Dr Aggarwal notes. “These chances are lowest among Asians, including Indians and East Asians.”

5. Fertility treatments

Techniques like IVF or medications that help induce ovulation significantly increase the odds of twins. “When ovulation-inducing medicines are used, multiple ova may be released,” Dr Aggarwal adds. “That’s why couples undergoing these treatments have a higher possibility of conceiving twins.”

6. Diet and lifestyle

While diet alone can’t guarantee twins, Dr Aggarwal acknowledges that “some studies link protein-rich diets, especially those high in dairy or certain root vegetables like yams, to slightly higher twin rates.” However, she clarifies this is not a proven medical fact, just an observed association in limited research.

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What About Previous Twin Pregnancies?

If you’ve already had twins once, you might have a higher chance again. “If you have previously conceived twins on your own, your chances of having twins in the next pregnancy also increase,” Dr Aggarwal explains. This happens because some women naturally release more than one egg per cycle, and that pattern can repeat.

So, Can You “Boost” Twin Chances Naturally?

The short answer: Not really, at least, not reliably. You can’t control identical twinning, and the factors that influence fraternal twins (like genetics, age, and ethnicity) aren’t things you can change intentionally. However, maintaining good reproductive health and a balanced lifestyle always helps your overall fertility.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you’re hoping for twins or simply trying to conceive, it’s best to focus on overall reproductive health. Speak with a gynaecologist before attempting any fertility-related changes. They can help track ovulation, check hormone levels, and suggest safe options if you’re considering fertility assistance.

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Conclusion

You can’t truly “plan” for twins naturally, but understanding the reasons why they occur helps set realistic expectations. Identical twins remain a random event, while fraternal twins are influenced by genetics, age, race, and fertility treatments. As Dr Shalini Aggarwal says, “Twins often run in families or occur with specific factors, but nature is the real decider here.” Focusing on a healthy body, a balanced diet, and guided medical care offers the best foundation for whatever type of pregnancy follows.