Getting to Know Twins or Multiple Pregnancy

A twin or multiple pregnancy is a pregnancy with more than 1 fetus. Twin/multiple pregnancies can occur through 2 mechanisms. The first mechanism is through the fertilization of more than 1 egg by 1 sperm each, known as fraternal twins. The second mechanism is through fertilization of 1 egg by 1 sperm, and then the result of fertilization (zygote) undergoes division, known as identical twins. Fraternal twins are more common than identical twins.

 

Multiple pregnancies are more common in couples who are trying to conceive using drugs to induce ovulation. In vitro fertilization (IVF) or IVF also increases the risk of multiple pregnancies. Women aged 35 years and family history factors also increase the incidence of multiple pregnancies.

 

A twin pregnancy is a risky pregnancy for both the mother and the baby. The risk experienced by the mother is the increased incidence of anemia, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and postpartum hemorrhage. The greatest risk experienced by babies is prematurity. In addition, the risk of growth disorders can be experienced by one or all of the fetuses in the womb. This can increase the risk of fetal death.

 

The risk to the fetus also depends on the chorionicity of the placenta. Chorionicity refers to whether each fetus has one placenta or shares a placenta with other fetuses. Therefore, in multiple pregnancies, routine examinations to assess maternal health and fetal-fetal development need to be carried out.

 

The purpose of this examination is to prevent the occurrence of medical conditions in the mother and fetus. In addition, preparation for childbirth is better, thereby reducing the incidence of morbidity and mortality for mothers and babies born.

 

What to ask the obstetrician during the examination?

• The total number of fetuses
• The total number of placentas (uteruses) and gestational sacs
• Is the growth of the two fetuses appropriate for gestational age?

 

The choice of delivery in multiple pregnancies (normal delivery or cesarean section) is determined by several things, such as: the mother's medical condition, the welfare of the fetus, and the position of the fetus. The important things that can be learned from this article are that twin pregnancy is a high-risk pregnancy that has an impact on the health of the mother and her fetus. Therefore, regular check-ups are important to prevent medical risks to the mother and fetus.