Nutrition and multifetal pregnancy.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• The incidence of multifetal pregnancy is increasing in the United States, primarily due to assisted reproductive technologies.
• This trend necessitates specialized nutritional support for these high-risk pregnancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of multifetal pregnancy, including its risks and the current understanding of nutrition's role.
• To propose evidence-based practice guidelines for nutrition in multifetal pregnancies to promote healthy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on nutrition and multifetal pregnancy.
• Development of practice guidelines based on the best available scientific data.

Main Results:

• Suggested guidelines include early positive weight gain, using prepregnancy weight to set twin pregnancy weight gain goals, a 50-lb target for triplet pregnancy, and increased food group servings.
• Critical need for more research on how nutritional status impacts multifetal pregnancy course and outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary evidence supports the benefits of nutrition services in multifetal pregnancies.
• Integration of dietetics services into care programs and further research are warranted for optimal management.