Twin Pregnancy

Twin Pregnancy

Twin pregnancies are considered high-risk because they are prone to a number of potential complications.

Twin pregnancies require close monitoring throughout the pregnancy to ensure the health of both the mother and the babies.

A twin pregnancy is a pregnancy involving more than one fetus in the uterus.

What are the types of twins?

- Twins with separate placentas

- Twins sharing a placenta

What factors increase the likelihood of having twins?

** Genetic factors, as twin pregnancies run in some families.

** Use of ovulation-stimulating drugs.

** Assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination and in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

** Advanced maternal age.

 All these factors increase the likelihood of having twins, but they do not guarantee it.

What are the potential complications that increase during a twin pregnancy?

** Increased risk of miscarriage

** Increased risk of premature birth

** Increased risk of fetal malformations

** Increased risk of anemia in the mother

** High blood pressure during pregnancy and preeclampsia

** Increased risk of newborns requiring intensive care after birth

** Increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony

How does a woman pregnant with twins give birth?

This depends on the position of the babies' heads. A vaginal birth is possible if the first baby is head down, but the medical community generally prefers a cesarean section to minimize complications.

When does a woman pregnant with twins give birth?

It depends on the number of fetuses in the uterus:

**Two fetuses: Week 37

**Three fetuses: Week 35

**Four fetuses: Week 32

What are the complications of a twin pregnancy for the fetuses?

** Intrauterine growth restriction

** Blood transfusion between fetuses if the placenta is shared

** Premature birth and its associated complications

** Increased risk of miscarriage

** Increased risk of birth defects

Dr Najeeb Layyous  F.R.C.O.G

Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist