Perinatal mortality in twins

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Epidemiology
• Neonatal Health

Background:

• Twin pregnancies are associated with higher perinatal mortality compared to singleton pregnancies.
• Understanding regional variations in twin perinatal mortality is crucial for targeted interventions.
• Factors like maternal age and parity significantly influence pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare perinatal mortality rates in twins between Ibadan, Nigeria, and Aberdeen, Scotland.
• To identify specific risk factors contributing to elevated twin perinatal mortality.
• To investigate the impact of maternal age and parity on twin perinatal mortality.

Main Methods:

• A concurrent study design was employed in two distinct geographical locations: Ibadan, Nigeria, and Aberdeen, Scotland.
• Perinatal mortality data for twin and singleton births were collected and analyzed.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare rates and assess the influence of maternal demographics.

Main Results:

• Perinatal mortality rates in twins were found to be four times higher than in singletons in both study areas.
• The monochorionic twin group in Ibadan exhibited particularly high mortality rates, reaching 310 per 1000 births.
• A considerable increase in perinatal mortality rates was observed with advancing maternal age and higher parity.

Conclusions:

• Twin pregnancies represent a high-risk obstetric scenario requiring specialized care.
• Geographical location and chorionicity are significant determinants of twin perinatal mortality.
• Maternal age and parity are critical factors that exacerbate the risks associated with twin pregnancies.