Twin_pregnancies_flashcards
What is the incidence of twin pregnancies?
1 in 105.
What is the incidence of triplet pregnancies?
1 in 10,000.
What are dizygotic twins?
Non-identical twins that develop from two separate ova fertilized at the same time.
What are monozygotic twins?
Identical twins that develop from a single ovum which has divided to form two embryos.
What percentage of twins are dizygotic?
Around 80%.
What complications are associated with monoamniotic monozygotic twins?
Increased spontaneous miscarriage, perinatal mortality rate, increased malformations, IUGR, prematurity.
What is twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and how is it treated?
A condition where the recipient twin is larger with polyhydramnios. It is treated with laser ablation of interconnecting vessels.
How is the rate of monozygotic twins described?
Fairly constant.
What factors predispose dizygotic twins?
Previous twins, family history, increasing maternal age, multigravida, induced ovulation and in-vitro fertilization, race (e.g., Afro-Caribbean).
List antenatal complications associated with twin pregnancies.
Polyhydramnios, pregnancy-induced hypertension, anaemia, antepartum haemorrhage.
List fetal complications associated with twin pregnancies.
Perinatal mortality (twins * 5, triplets * 10), prematurity, light-for-date babies, malformations (*3, especially monozygotic).
What are the typical gestational ages for twins and triplets?
Twins: 37 weeks, Triplets: 33 weeks.
List labour complications associated with twin pregnancies.
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), malpresentation, cord prolapse, entanglement.
How is twin pregnancy managed?
Rest, ultrasound for diagnosis and monthly checks, additional iron and folate, more antenatal care (e.g., weekly > 30 weeks), precautions at labour (e.g., 2 obstetricians present).
What is the delivery timeline for most twin pregnancies?
75% of twins deliver by 38 weeks; if longer, most twins are induced at 38-40 weeks.
