Irish twins are more likely to be born prematurely.

Babies spaced too close together do face some increased risks. The World Health Organization recommends waiting 18 to 24 months between babies. Is It Safe to Have Two Babies in Such a Short Span of Time? However, it’s worth considering whether it should be replaced with different, more accurate verbiage. Today there is less of a stigma around being Irish or having Irish heritage, so many people don’t think twice about using the term “Irish Twins”. During this time period, the Irish were a poor immigrant group and the term was used a slur to imply that they had more kids than they could afford to support. The term originated in the 19th Century as an offensive reference to the fact that Irish families tended to have many children and give birth frequently.

Babies born within a year of each other are not twins, and they do not have to be Irish. More: Do Twins Run in Families? A Genetic Explanation Where Did the Term Irish Twins Originate and Is it Offensive?Īlthough the term “Irish Twins” is commonly used, it is not really correct. While birthing two babies in the span of a year has its challenges, there are also many uniquely special benefits to raising siblings close in age. The term “Irish Twins” refers to siblings born within a year of each other, and it definitely does happen. Imagine finding out you’re pregnant again while you still have a newborn.

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