Multiple Gestation

Multiple Gestation

Multiple gestations or multiple pregnancies is a pregnancy with more than one fetus. It may be twins triplets or more. The diagnosis is most often made by ultrasound scan in the first trimester. Pregnancy symptoms can be more severe in multiple pregnancy. There is an increased risk of fetal and growth abnormalities in multiple gestations.

Types of Multiple Pregnancies

There are two types of multiple pregnancies:

  1. Identical

When more than one fetus originates from the same egg they are identical. A single egg is fertilized by a single sperm, and the egg spontaneously splits into two genetically identical embryos.

2. Fraternal

When two or more eggs are fertilized by more than one sperm, the resulting babies are fraternal. Multiple Gestations are more common after fertility treatment.

Carrying more than one baby increases the risk of:

  • Pre-eclampsia.

  • Gestational diabetes

  • Preterm birth

  • Birth defects Image of twins in pregnancy

  • Miscarriage

  • Low birth weight

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Iron-deficiency anaemia

  • Intrauterine growth restriction


What to expect with multiple gestation

More frequent antenatal visits are required due to the increased risk of complications.

You are also invited to establish care with Dr Annabelle Pollard. Please click here to make an appointment or call us.