Twins: Same but different

Mayan and Maor, twins who are part of the MyHeritage family

What does it feel like to have someone look like you? If one gets hurt, does the other feel it? Do twins share their own language?

When I was younger and met a set of twins, I often thought about those things.

Biologically, of course, twins share a uterus in pregnancy, and share an egg (if identical) or are two separate eggs (if fraternal or non-identical). Brazil has the highest rate of twins worldwide.

My family contains many sets of twins, and although only 2% of pregnancies result in twins, it's not out of the realm of possibility that I could have twins, or my children could.

There were several sets of twins at my school, and MyHeritage also has twin brothers working here together (see photo above).

We've all heard stories of how twins can take advantage of their looks, either by taking exams or driving tests for each other or tricking their girlfriend or boyfriend. But I wonder what it must be like growing up as a twin.

How do you develop your own identity when you share everything from toys, clothes to birthdays and parties. The companionship must be great, but at the same time, sometimes we just need our own space.

Are there twins in your family? Are you a twin? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic.