Multiple births, such as twins and triplets, are much more common with the US Department of Health and Human Services reporting a 75% increase in twins since 1980 and an even higher rate for triplets and quadruplets. The most common type of multiple pregnancies is twins, either identical or fraternal, or non-identical. Twins occur in roughly 1 out of 250 pregnancies and triplets in 1 out of 10,000 pregnancies.
One of the main reasons for the increase is the fact that more women are undergoing infertility treatment, which carries a risk of multiple pregnancies. Another factor is that women are waiting longer now to attempt pregnancy and older women are more likely to develop multiple pregnancy.
Despite how advanced medicine and technology have become, multiple pregnancies still place both the mother and their children at risk.
Preterm Birth
Roughly 60% of multiple births are born prematurely (which falls anywhere before 37 weeks), compared to only about 10% from single births. Cesarean section is often required for twins & triplets.
Placental Problems
The placenta is responsible for providing blood, oxygen, and nutrition to the fetus. However, in multiple pregnancies it’s more likely to have an abnormally functioning placenta. This causes issues in the development of the fetus, which can translate into many different complications and even death.
Preeclampsia & Diabetes
The risk of an elevated blood pressure is very high in both twins and triplet deliveries. Gestational diabetes is also common in multiple pregnancies.
Newborn Complications
Twins are generally unaffected, but triplets or more often results in at least one child with a major long-term illness or disorder among other possible complications including respirator or brain damage.
When delivering twins and triplets, you need a doctor with the skill and expertise to deliver your children without complications. Dr. Torbati is a board-certified OB-GYN, having successfully delivered many types of high-risk pregnancy, including twins and triplets. His patients love him because he assists and supports you every step of the way in your pregnancy to make sure you are well nourished and housing an environment that is safe for your children.
Contact Dr. Torbati for more Detailed Information, and In-House Consultation.