Twins

Twin pregnancies come with their own set of challenges and require closer monitoring due to higher risks of complications like Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), selective fetal growth restriction, and preterm labor. Our expert team uses advanced ultrasound technology to monitor and manage these risks effectively.

multiple-pregnancy
FAQs

  • Twin scanning helps confirm if you’re carrying twins or more and determines whether they share a placenta (monochorionic) or have separate ones (dichorionic). This information is crucial for managing the pregnancy safely.

    Since multiple pregnancies can be complex, scans might take longer or need to be repeated to get the clearest images for an accurate diagnosis.

  • Determining the type of placenta (chorionicity) is vital in twin pregnancies. This helps us predict potential complications and plan appropriate interventions early, ensuring the best possible care for both babies.

  • DCDA twins have separate placentas and amniotic sacs, making it the safest form of twin pregnancy. This condition is typically diagnosed in the first trimester through ultrasound, with the Lambda sign indicating two separate placentas.

  • MCDA twins share a placenta but have separate amniotic sacs. These pregnancies carry higher risks, such as TTTS, and require frequent ultrasounds and monitoring by specialized maternal-fetal medicine teams.

  • This rare and high-risk twin pregnancy involves one placenta and one amniotic sac. Since the babies share the same space, there is a risk of cord entanglement. Close monitoring, weekly ultrasounds, and early delivery (around 32–34 weeks) help improve outcomes.

  • TTTS occurs when twins share a placenta, but blood flow is unevenly distributed between them. One twin (the donor twin) sends more blood to the other (recipient twin), causing complications.

  • TTTS treatment aims to restore balanced blood flow between the twins, reducing the risk of complications and improving survival rates.

  • Laser surgery, performed using a minimally invasive fetoscope, seals the abnormal blood vessels, ensuring better blood flow distribution while keeping risks low for the mother.

  • TRAP is a rare condition where one twin (the acardiac twin) lacks a heart and relies on the other twin (the pump twin) for blood circulation, which can strain the healthy twin’s heart.

  • Routine ultrasounds can detect TRAP early in pregnancy. Based on severity, doctors may choose close monitoring, minimally invasive interventions, or preterm delivery to protect the healthy twin.

  • Fetal surgery for TRAP cuts off the blood supply to the nonviable twin, reducing the burden on the pump twin and increasing survival chances.

  • While any fetal procedure carries risks, expert specialists minimize complications by performing interventions in a controlled, well-equipped medical setting.

  • Fetal reduction, or selective reduction, is a medical procedure to lower the number of fetuses in a multiple pregnancy, reducing risks for the mother and remaining babies. This delicate and complex decision is made based on medical necessity and a thorough discussion with experts.

  • Depending on the pregnancy stage, fetal reduction may involve:

    • Injection of Potassium Chloride to stop the heartbeat of the selected fetus.
    • Laser Ablation for monochorionic twins to disconnect shared blood vessels.
    • Radiofrequency Ablation to cut off blood flow.
    • Surgical Removal in certain cases.

  • Performed by experienced specialists, fetal reduction significantly lowers pregnancy risks and improves health outcomes for both the mother and remaining fetuses.

  • Twins can usually be identified during the first-trimester scan (between 11–13 weeks). If a shared placenta is detected, more frequent scans are planned to ensure optimal monitoring and care.

  • A water-based gel is applied to the mother’s abdomen, and an ultrasound probe is used to capture detailed images of the babies from multiple angles.

  • At MediScan, experienced fetal medicine specialists not only perform the scan but also explain the findings clearly and provide expert counseling for parents.

  • Under normal conditions, it takes 20 to 30 minutes, but it may take longer based on the complexity of the case.

  • Yes! It is completely safe, just like a routine ultrasound scan.

  • With 40+ years of expertise, MediScan is one of Asia’s, and India’s leading fetal medicine centers. We are trusted for our cutting-edge technology, high standards of care, and world-class expertise.

    When you choose MediScan, you and your baby are in the safest hands possible.