Related Experiment Videos
Twin pregnancy and perinatal deaths
1University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria.
Summary
Twin pregnancies pose significant risks, with high rates of preterm delivery and low birth weight. Intensive care is crucial to improve outcomes for both mother and child in these high-risk pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatology
- Neonatology
Background:
- Twin pregnancy is a common obstetric complication.
- It is associated with increased risks of adverse perinatal outcomes.
- Previous studies highlight the challenges in managing twin gestations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of very low birth weight infants, delivery complications, and perinatal deaths in twin pregnancies.
- To assess the impact of current obstetric practices on twin gestation outcomes.
- To identify factors contributing to perinatal mortality in twin births.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Analysis of 308 consecutive twin gestations.
- Review of delivery data, birth weights, gestational age, and perinatal mortality rates.
Main Results:
- Twin pregnancy incidence was 21.3 per 1000 births.
- Preterm delivery occurred in 36.2% and low birth weight in 60.9% of cases.
- Perinatal mortality was 102 per 1000 births, threefold the hospital average, with 50% mortality in very low birth weight infants and high rates in preterm (<34 weeks) deliveries.
Conclusions:
- Twin pregnancy remains a significant obstetric and perinatal challenge.
- High perinatal mortality rates underscore the need for specialized care.
- Improved antenatal and intrapartum care, alongside enhanced maternal support, are vital for better outcomes.