Twins & Multiples

Twins & multiples

• The most common complication of a twin or higher-order multiple pregnancy is preterm birth: more than half of all twins are born preterm, and triplets and higher-order multiples are almost always born preterm.Source: ACOG
• Babies born before 37 weeks may have an increased risk of short- and long-term health problems (breathing, eating, staying warm, and later learning/behavioral issues); babies born very preterm (before 32 weeks) can die or have severe health problems even with the best care — which is why multiple pregnancies are monitored more closely.Source: ACOG
• Monochorionic twins (who share one placenta) have a higher risk of complications than twins with separate placentas, including twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), where blood flow between the twins becomes unbalanced — one twin donates blood and has too little, the other receives too much; the earlier TTTS occurs, the more serious the outcome can be.Source: ACOG
• Women carrying multiples have a higher risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, and having multiples might also increase the risk of postpartum depression — intense sadness, anxiety, or despair that interferes with daily tasks should be discussed with an ob-gyn or other member of the care team.Source: ACOG