Complications of multiple pregnancies. Overwiew

Abstract

Multiple gestations are high risk pregnancies which may be complicated by prematurity,low birthweight, pre-eclampsia, anaemia, postpartum haemorrhage, intrauterine growth restriction, neonatal morbidity and high neonatal and infant mortality. Preterm labor and birth represent the greatest risk to a multiple pregnancy. Sixty percent of multiples are born prematurely (<37 weeks) compared to about 10% of singleton pregnancies. Placental function is more likely to be abnormal in a multiple pregnancy. Another placental problem is twin-twin transfusion, a life-threatening condition in identical twins. Preeclampsia, also known as toxemia, occurs 2 to 5 times more often in multiple pregnancies. Fifteen percent to 20% of women with twin pregnancies will experience preeclampsia, and an even higher percentage is preeclamptic in triplet or high-order pregnancies. Preterm labor and birth pose the greatest risk to a multiple pregnancy. Sixty percent of multiples are born prematurely (<37 weeks) compared to about 10% of singleton pregnancies. Fetal and Newborn complications such as preterm delivery, respiratory distress syndrome, brain damage are responsible for almost 10% of premature newborn deaths. Birth defects and stillbirths account for about 30% of the deaths in twins and multiple pregnancies. Low birth weight of less than 5.5 pounds (lb.) [2,500 grams] occurs in over half of twins..