Yes, identical twin pregnancy is considered to be higher risk than a singleton pregnancy. Identical twin pregnancies are more likely to involve certain complications, including premature birth, low birth weight, and other health concerns.
Twin pregnancies also put greater demands on the mother in terms of nutrition, rest and managing discomfort. Mothers carrying twins are more likely to experience significant fatigue and need more rest and help with day-to-day activities.
Identical twins in particular are at significantly higher risk of miscarriage and stillbirth due to a phenomenon called ‘vanishing twin syndrome’, where one of the twins fails to develop properly. Certain complications, such as pre-eclampsia, placenta problems and anemia, are also more likely in twin pregnancies.
Therefore, it is important for physicians and pregnant mothers carrying twins to be extra vigilant in monitoring the health of both mother and babies throughout the pregnancy and during delivery.
What are the highest risk type of twins?
The highest risk type of twins are monochorionic-diamniotic (MCDA) twins – also known as “identical” twins. MCDA twins share an amniotic sac and a single placenta, which means they share a common blood supply and are exposed to each other’s hormones in the womb.
This can mean that they experience more frequent and/or intense intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) than other types of twins. Because of the shared placenta, they are also at a higher risk of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and other vascular complications.
Other complications associated with this type of twinning may include the presence of a single umbilical cord, and a higher risk of fetal death.
Are fraternal twins or identical twins riskier?
Both fraternal twins and identical twins can be considered risky pregnancies. While the risks associated with fraternal twins is usually higher due to the fact that two separate fetuses are developing, the risks associated with identical twins can also be quite high.
This is because identical twins develop from a single fertilized egg and can share the same placenta, which increases the risk for blood-related complications for both fetuses. Common risks associated with pregnancy involving twins include premature labor, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, blood transfusions, and an increased risk for cesarean births.
Therefore, when considering the risks associated with a twin pregnancy, it is important to consider both fraternal and identical twins.
How much higher risk are twin pregnancies?
Twin pregnancies can be higher risk than single pregnancies due to the extra strain placed on the mother’s body. A woman who is pregnant with twins will experience more of the physical symptoms of pregnancy like nausea and swelling than if she were pregnant with one baby.
Because the mother is carrying two babies, the uterine area has to hold larger volumes of amniotic fluid, which can lead to a greater chance of preterm labor. Additionally, twin pregnancies typically result in lower birth weights than a single pregnancy.
The increased risk factors for twin pregnancies can include an increased chance of growth intrauterine restriction (IUGR), congenital issues in babies, and a higher rate of maternal complications, such as pre-eclampsia, placenta previa, and placental abruption.
Twin pregnancies also carry an increased risk for stillbirth or neonatal death, which means timely and regular prenatal care is especially important. In the cases of severe complications, C-sections may be necessary to ensure the safety of mother and babies.
Pregnant women who have been diagnosed with twins should follow the orders of their healthcare provider, follow a healthy prenatal diet and take prenatal vitamins, and get plenty of rest to reduce their risk as much as possible.
With the right precautions and care, mothers of twins can have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
What is a good weight for twins?
A good weight for twins depends on multiple factors, including the overall health of the mother, the gestational age of the babies, and their individual development. Generally speaking, the average weight range of a healthy full-term birth for twins is between 5.
5 and 6. 8 pounds, but this can vary and individual twins can be significantly lower or higher than the average. In any case, it is important to remember that a healthy weight range for twins is different than for a single baby and cannot be compared directly.
Ideally, determining a good weight for twins should be a decision between you and your healthcare provider, who may be able to give a more accurate assessment of the babies’ weight given their individual circumstances.
This is especially important to take into consideration because an individual baby’s weight can have a major impact on their health and future development. There is also the possibility that a twin pregnancy could cause the babies to be born premature and result in newborn complications such as low birth weight and respiratory problems.
It is important to remember that the weight of twins is not the only determining factor of their health and development—rather, a combination of regular prenatal care, ultrasounds and medical professional advice should be taken into consideration as well.
Overall, it is important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider in order to ensure the best outcome for the babies.
What birth defects are common in twins?
Twin pregnancies have a higher incidence of certain birth defects, including neural tube defects, cephalo-pelvic disproportion, neurodevelopmental handicaps, congenital heart defects, and some chromosomal abnormalities.
Neural tube defects account for the highest number of birth defects in twins, and are more common in monozygotic (identical) twins than in dizygotic (fraternal) twins. Cephalo-pelvic disproportion is a condition in which the baby’s head and pelvic measurements are not compatible.
Babies with neurodevelopmental handicaps, such as cerebral palsy or mental retardation, are also at an increased risk in twin pregnancies. Congenital heart defects occur more commonly in twins than in singleton babies and may include holes in the heart or abnormal valves.
Chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, are also more likely to occur in twins. Therefore, it is important for expecting parents of multiples to be aware of the possibility of these birth defects, and to discuss any concerns with an obstetrician.
Do identical twins have a stronger bond than fraternal?
Yes, identical twins have a stronger bond than fraternal twins. This is due to a number of factors including the fact that identical twins share the same exact genetic make up and are often mistaken for one another.
Additionally, they often have a remarkable ability to understand and feel each other’s emotions even from afar. Identical twins tend to develop a strong connection at an early age and often maintain a strong bond throughout their lives.
Even when they live apart, they often stay in contact with each other emotionally and logistically. Fraternal twins, on the other hand, are no more related than any other siblings. They share only half of their genetic makeup, just like any other siblings, and so their bond isn’t as strong as that between identical twins.
Nonetheless, fraternal twins can also develop a very strong bond if they share common interests, experiences, and opinions.
Are twins in separate sacs safer?
Overall, twins in separate sacs are considered safer than twins who share a single sac. This is because with shared sacs, the two fetuses may get tangled in the umbilical cords, causing compression of the cords and cutting off the blood supply to both babies.
The likelihood of this happening is increased when the twins are sharing a single sac and the placenta is located in the front of the uterus.
If the twins share a single sac and have separate placentas, the risk of this happening is still present, but less likely than with a single shared sac and a single placenta.
With separate sacs, each baby has their own amniotic sac and the umbilical cords are not as likely to tangle, preventing any restriction of the blood supply to one of the babies. In addition, the risk of cord accidents and injury during delivery is reduced since the chances of the cords becoming tangled together decreases.
Twins in separate sacs may also be more likely to deliver at closer to their due date. This is because with a single sac there is a higher risk of premature delivery due to complications with the umbilical cords.
Overall, while twins in separate sacs are considered safer, the decision to pursue this option should still be discussed with a medical professional to better evaluate the risks and benefits in each situation.
Is it more common to be a fraternal or identical twins?
It is more common for twins to be fraternal rather than identical. Fraternal, or dizygotic, twins occur when two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm cells which can happen at the same time or one after the other.
Identical, or monozygotic, twins occur when a single fertilized egg divides into two separate embryos which then develop into two separate individuals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two thirds of all twins born in the United States each year are fraternal twins.
This is because the likelihood of a single fertilized egg dividing into two embryos is relatively low, and the odds of having a set of identical twins can vary depending a wide range of factors. However, some research indicates that the rate of twin births is on the rise, which could mean an increase in the rate of identical twins over time.
What is the safest type of twin pregnancy?
The safest type of twin pregnancy is one that is monitored closely by a medical professional to ensure both the mother and babies receive the care they need. When it comes to fetal development during a twin pregnancy, the key to a smooth and safe outcome is regular ultrasounds and appointments with a health care provider.
It is important to monitor the babies’ growth and identify any potential problems as soon as possible. It is also important for the mother to follow a healthy diet and get adequate rest to help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Other steps can be taken to reduce the risk of complications during a twin pregnancy. These include avoiding activities that are overly strenuous, ensuring that the mother has access to the necessary resources (including medical care, nutrition, and emotional support), and avoiding exploiting the mother’s energy with physical labour.
Additionally, it is beneficial to identify any risk factors such as pre-existing medical conditions and discuss them with the health care practitioner.
Regular ultrasounds and prenatal appointments are key to ensuring that both mothers and babies stay healthy during a twin pregnancy. Close medical supervision ensures proper monitoring of the mother and babies, with the aim of reducing the risk of any complications.
With the right care and attention, a twin pregnancy can be a safe and healthy experience.
Can you have a healthy twin pregnancy?
Yes, you can have a healthy twin pregnancy. Like any pregnancy, a twin pregnancy carries some risks. However, with proper care and monitoring, many women are able to have a healthy and successful pregnancy.
Depending on the type of twins you have, you may have different concerns and risks, but in general expectant mothers of twins should do their best to ensure that they are healthy and prepare for delivery.
For example, attending all scheduled prenatal appointments is important so that your doctor can monitor the health of your babies and the well-being of your pregnancy. You should also eat a balanced, healthy diet and take prenatal vitamins.
If your doctor suggests it, you may also need to take extra iron. Regular exercise is also beneficial for your pregnancy as it can improve your stamina during labor, as well as help keep you and baby healthy.
Twin pregnancies can go the full term, but often are delivered preterm due to increased risk — from earlier labor to other pregnancy complications. Because of this, you should look into the services and preterm baby policies of the hospital where you plan on delivering your twins.
By talking with your healthcare provider and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can help ensure a successful and healthy twin pregnancy.
What percentage of twin pregnancies miscarry?
The exact percentage of twin pregnancies that miscarry is difficult to determine because many miscarriages occur very early in pregnancy before the pregnancy is even recognized. However, a 2013 study from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine looked at a variety of different studies on twin pregnancies and estimated that about 18 to 21 percent of twin pregnancies ended in miscarriage.
The risks associated with miscarriage can increase with the type of twins (i. e. the presence of multiple chorionic sacs and amniotic sacs or a situation where the two twins share one common placenta).
Miscarriage is more common during the first trimester, but can also occur in the second and third trimester as well. In general, the risk of miscarriage is higher in twin pregnancies than in single pregnancies with an estimated risk of 15 to 20 percent as compared to 10 to 15 percent, respectively.
The risk of miscarriage with a twin pregnancy is also affected by age and other factors such as a history of previous miscarriages, lifestyle, and health issues. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding the risk of miscarriage with your particular twin pregnancy.
What not to do when you are pregnant with twins?
When you are pregnant with twins, it is absolutely essential that you take special precautions to ensure the health and safety of yourself and your developing babies. Here are some of the things you should avoid doing during your pregnancy:
1. Avoiding prenatal care – It is essential to attend all your prenatal appointments in order to monitor the progress of your pregnancy, and to identify any potential issues early on.
2. Overdoing it – Refrain from overexerting yourself or doing anything too strenuous. Bed rest can be beneficial for pregnant mothers carrying multiple babies, so make sure to discuss this with your doctor.
3. Not eating a balanced diet – It is important to make sure you are getting sufficient amounts of all essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients during your pregnancy, so it is best to consume a balanced diet of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and healthy fats.
4. Not drinking enough water – It is important to stay hydrated when pregnant, and even more so when you are pregnant with twins. Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.
5. Avoiding rest and relaxation – Pregnancy can be as exhausting as it is beautiful, so it is important to make time to get plenty of rest and relaxation. Find activities to engage in while relaxing, such as stretching and breathing exercises, reading, or listening to calming music.
6. Not asking for help – Do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Accepting support from family or friends with cooking, cleaning, childcare for other children, or other tasks can be immensely helpful during your pregnancy.
Can you have normal delivery with twins?
Yes, it is possible to have a normal delivery with twins. In fact, the majority of twin pregnancies are delivered vaginally. That being said, a vaginal delivery varies in complexity depending on the type of twins and a variety of other factors.
Generally, monochorionic–diamniotic twins share one chorionic sac (placenta) and two amniotic sacs (the fluid-filled sacs that hold the developing fetuses). When this is the case, the babies are typically delivered vaginally, and many times doctors will deliver the first baby and allow the second baby to be delivered on its own without the use of forceps or vacuum.
On the other hand, monochorionic–monoamniotic twins share one chorionic sac and one amniotic sac. This type of twin pregnancy is more risky because of the risk of umbilical cord prolapse and the possibility of cord compression, so C-section delivery is usually recommended in this case.
It’s important to note that even if a vaginal delivery is planned, physicians sometimes have to recommend a C-section for medical reasons. Therefore, it is essential to have a healthcare provider that you trust, who is experienced in delivering twins, and who can assess your individual situation throughout the pregnancy to decide the best delivery options.
How early can twins be born and be okay?
Twins can be born very early and still be okay. The earliest gestational age for viable twins is about 23 weeks and 6 days, but the average gestational age at birth for twins is 37-38 weeks. Premature infants are defined as those born before 37 weeks, and the level of prematurity can range from very early (before 28 weeks gestation) to late preterm (32-37 weeks gestation).
According to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, twin babies born very prematurely (less than 32 weeks) constitute close to 55% of all preterm births.
The prognosis of twins born this early can vary greatly, depending on gestational age and birth weight. Generally, the younger and smaller the twins, the greater the risk of complications, including difficulty breathing and difficulty regulating their body temperature.
As a result, very young, preterm infants are kept in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) for close observation and are often placed on ventilators until their breathing is strong enough to function without support.
Fortunately, with the advances in NICU care, more and more babies born very early are surviving and thriving.