Multiple Pregnancy

What Is Multiple Pregnancy?

Multiple pregnancy is a type of pregnancy in which two or more babies develop simultaneously in the mother’s uterus. The most common type of multiple pregnancy is twin pregnancy.
This condition can occur both naturally and through assisted reproductive methods such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

In IVF treatment, multiple pregnancy may develop when more than one transferred embryo implants in the uterus or when a single embryo divides.
The incidence of naturally occurring multiple pregnancies is approximately 3 in 1,000 pregnancies.
This rate increases in women over the age of 35 and in those with a family history of multiple pregnancy.

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Types of Multiple Pregnancy

Identical Twins (Monozygotic)

In identical twins, one egg is fertilized by one sperm and later divides into two embryos.
The babies have the same genetic structure and usually look very similar.
It occurs in approximately 1 in every 250 pregnancies.
Division generally occurs within the first 72 hours after fertilization.

Fraternal Twins (Dizygotic)

Two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm.
In this case, the babies do not resemble each other closely; they are genetically similar like siblings.
Approximately 75% of multiple pregnancies are fraternal twins.

Triplet and Quadruplet Pregnancies

Although rare, in triplet and quadruplet pregnancies, multiple babies develop as a result of fertilization of more than one egg or multiple divisions of a single embryo.

What Are the Risks of Multiple Pregnancy?

Multiple pregnancies may carry certain risks for both the mother and the babies:

1. Risk of Preterm Birth

In multiple pregnancies, delivery often occurs before the 37th week.
This may cause babies to be born with low birth weight and experience respiratory problems.

2. Preeclampsia (Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension)

This condition, which may lead to high blood pressure and liver or kidney damage, is more common in multiple pregnancies.
It is detected through protein in the mother’s urine and requires urgent treatment.

3. Other Risks

Vanishing Twin Syndrome: One embryo stops developing in early pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes
Anemia
Risk of postpartum hemorrhage
Increased likelihood of congenital anomalies

Things to Consider in Multiple Pregnancy

In multiple pregnancies, close medical follow-up is extremely important for the health of both the mother and the babies.

Regular check-ups: Blood tests, ultrasound examinations, and blood pressure measurements should not be missed.
Nutrition: A diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals should be followed.
Rest: Expectant mothers are often advised to begin maternity leave earlier.
Fluid intake: Daily water consumption should be increased.
Birth planning: In multiple pregnancies, cesarean delivery is often preferred.

At Which Week Is Multiple Pregnancy Detected?

Multiple pregnancies can usually be detected by ultrasound at 5–6 weeks.
The presence of more than one gestational sac on ultrasound indicates multiple pregnancy:

2 sacs → Twin pregnancy
3 sacs → Triplet pregnancy

This early diagnosis allows more careful risk monitoring in the following weeks of pregnancy.