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Multiple births and outcome
B B Warner1, J L Kiely, E F Donovan
1Division of Pulmonary Biology and TriHealth Nurseries, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
Clinics in Perinatology
|June 23, 2000
Summary
Multiple-gestation pregnancies are increasing, leading to more low-birth weight infants and higher risks. Targeting these pregnancies is key to reducing adverse infant outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Multiple-gestation pregnancies have risen significantly in recent decades.
- These pregnancies are associated with increased risks for infants compared to singleton pregnancies.
- Adverse outcomes are linked to preterm delivery and low birth weight, not the gestation type itself.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of multiple-gestation pregnancies on infant outcomes.
- To identify the primary drivers of adverse outcomes in multiple births.
- To inform strategies for reducing low-birth weight infant rates.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on pregnancy rates.
- Comparative analysis of infant mortality and morbidity in multiple versus singleton gestations.
- Assessment of outcomes based on conception method (spontaneous vs. assisted reproductive technology).
Main Results:
- Infants from multiple gestations face higher mortality and morbidity.
- Preterm delivery and low birth weight are the main contributors to adverse outcomes.
- Conception method (spontaneous or ART) does not significantly alter infant outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Multiple-gestation pregnancies are a critical factor in the rise of low-birth weight infants.
- Interventions should focus on managing risks associated with multiple pregnancies.
- Targeting multiple-gestation pregnancies is essential for improving neonatal health outcomes.