Twin Pregnancy- is everything two times the challenge?

What is twin pregnancy? 

When the pregnant woman is expecting 2 babies at the same time it is termed twin pregnancy. 

What are the types of twin pregnancy? 

The ‘Placenta’ or the ‘Afterbirth’ is the organ which supplies nutrients and oxygen from mother to the fetus. In Twin pregnancy, the two babies can have their own separate placenta or they may share the same the placenta. Depending on weather the babies have their own placenta or share the placenta, they can be-

  

Dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) 

Each baby has its own placenta with its own sac. This happens when two eggs are fertilised or if one egg splits soon after fertilisation.

  

Monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA)  

The babies share the placenta but they each have their own 

The babies share the placenta but they each have their own sac, these babies are always identical. This happens if the fertilised egg splits a little later. fertilised egg splits a 

sac, these babies are always identical. This happens if the fertilised egg splits a little later.

  

Monochorionic monoamniotic (MCMA)

The babies share the placenta and are inside the same amniotic sac; these babies are always identical; this is rare and carries additional risks. This happens if the fertilized egg splits still later.

  

Why is it important to know the type of twinning?

Babies that share the placenta(monochorionic) have slightly higher chances of having complications in the womb compared to those who have their own separate placenta (dichorionoc). The care during your pregnancy, during delivery depends on the type of twins. So it is extremely important to know the type of twinning.

How to know the type of twinning?

The type of twinning can be detected by ultrasound scan. By visualizing the placenta and some specific features on the scan, the doctor will be able to tell you the type of twinning.

When should I get the scan to know the type of twinning?

The scan to know the type of twinning is ideally performed early in pregnancy until 14 weeks of gestation.

What does a twin pregnancy mean for the mother?

All symptoms of pregnancy are exaggerated in a twin pregnancy. You are more likely to have 

1. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy

2. Decreased haemoglobin

3. Increased chance of developing high blood pressure in pregnancy

4. Increased chance of developing high blood sugars in pregnancy.

5. Increased chances of having caesarean section

6. Increased chances of bleeding from womb after delivery

What does a twin pregnancy mean for the foetuses?

Prematurity- deliver before 37 weeks of gestation.

Problems with growth- with twins there is an increased chances of reduction in placental function. This can affect the babies’ growth and wellbeing.