questions

I am 36yo and 7 1/2 weeks pregnant with fraternal twins via IVF.  Last week, I had an US, saw and heard both heartbeats.  The babies measured 6w1d, heartbeats 110. Doctor wants to do another US this thursday to see heartbeats at least 120.  

1.  Is this a normal heartrate for their age?  Is this worrisome?

Also, yesterday, I started having twinges in my lower abdomen, sharp pains that come and go. It is not a constant cramp, more like a sharp spasm.

2.  Is this a sign of my uterine ligaments stretching? Is this a good sign?

I am just ready to get past the 1st trimester so that I can stop worrying about miscarriage.

Thanks for your help.

[Forum-M.D.-SP]

Dear spec-

110 beats per minute is a completely normal heart rate for a 6 week 1 day gestation. After 6 1/2 weeks (6 weeks, 4 days), the average feta; heart rate increases so that at the next ultrasound a rate of 120 is desired. Even so, babies beyond 6 1/2 weeks with heart rates of 110-120 most often do just fine. The follow up ultrasound that you have scheduled is just precautionary.

The twinges are typical of pregnancy - neither a good sign nor a bad sign.

Everything sounds real encouraging so far!