Questions in the Maternal and Child Health Forum have been answered by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Question Title: twin pregnancy

Forum: The Maternal and Child Health Forum
Topic: Pregnancy - Abnormal


My wife is currently in her sixth month af a twin pregnancy. She is 39 years
old which adds to the risk factor. Her last ultrasound revealed a retarded
growth rate in one of the twins. We understand this may be caused by one
of three factors; a deficient placenta, insufficient rest, or genetics.
Excluding the genetic option, what are the possible ramifications to
the health of the child with the other two possible causes.
Thanks

Dear David Dick:

Discordant growth, aside from genetics, means that one baby is getting a less-than-needed share of nutrition. Most small babies will catch up after birth.
The heart of your question is whether there can be irreparable harm to some organ systems that are still in the development mode. The answer must be yes: unfortunately, our ability to divine how much insult a given baby can sustain without damage is poor. We watch the growth patterns, monitor well being by "biophysical profile" (ultrasound plus heart rate monitor patterns) and deliver before full term.
Bed rest, especially turned onto the left side, is associated with improved blood flow and is a long-recommended therapy.

Keywords: multiple pregnancy, growth retardation

This information is provided for education purposes and is not a medical consultation. If you have specific questions, please contact your physician.


 

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