Twin pregnancies: incidence and outcome - Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital experience

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Twin births present unique challenges in obstetric care.
• Higher rates of prematurity and low birth weight are associated with twin gestations.
• Perinatal mortality in twin pregnancies requires focused clinical attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the outcomes of twin pregnancies managed over a decade.
• To determine the incidence and perinatal mortality rates of twin births in Riyadh.
• To identify risk factors impacting twin pregnancy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study design.
• Data collected from deliveries at Armed Forces Hospital, Riyadh (1987-1996).
• Analysis of twin birth incidence, perinatal mortality, prematurity, birth weight, and antenatal care status.

Main Results:

• The incidence of twin births was 1 in 105 maternities.
• Perinatal mortality rate for twins was 46 per 1000 births, significantly higher than singletons (12.3 per 1000).
• Premature delivery (<34 weeks) and very low birth weight (<1500g) infants constituted 12.5% and 8.7% of twin deliveries, respectively, contributing disproportionately to mortality. Patients with no antenatal care (3.2%) accounted for 16.2% of total deaths.

Conclusions:

• Twin pregnancies are associated with substantially increased perinatal mortality and morbidity.
• Prematurity and low birth weight are major contributors to twin mortality.
• Adequate antenatal care is crucial for improving outcomes in twin pregnancies.