What is Multiple Pregnancy?

With scientific advancements in IVF treatments, the incidence of multiple pregnancies has increased in the population. If the mother has a family history of multiple pregnancies, the likelihood of multiple pregnancies increases. Additionally, the age of the woman being over 30 also raises the probability of multiple pregnancies.

Multiple pregnancies can be either monozygotic (identical twins) or dizygotic (fraternal twins).

What Are Identical Twins?

Identical twins are formed when a single egg is fertilized by sperm and then splits into two embryos, which are genetically, sexually, and physically similar to each other. The occurrence rate of identical twins is independent of age, race, and heredity. It happens in one out of every 250 births. In identical twins, one in three pregnancies may result in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (blood transfer between twins), which may cause more structural problems in these babies.

What Are Fraternal Twins?

Fraternal twins are the result of two or more eggs being fertilized by separate sperm cells. The babies may be of different sexes and resemble each other like normal siblings. Assisted reproductive technologies, a family history of multiple pregnancies, advanced maternal age, pre-pregnancy weight, and discontinuation of birth control pills increase the likelihood of multiple pregnancies.

Fraternal twins are more likely to have chromosomal (genetic) problems. Women diagnosed with multiple pregnancies should have more frequent checkups and undergo regular ultrasound evaluations.

Problems That May Occur in Multiple Pregnancies:

• Premature birth,
• Low birth weight,
• Growth retardation,
• Loss of the fetus in the womb (fetal death or miscarriage),
• Gestational diabetes,
• Preeclampsia (high blood pressure and protein in urine during pregnancy).

Early detection of problems in multiple pregnancies and taking necessary precautions is important. Don’t miss your checkups with your doctor.

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