Multifetal pregnancies.
The incidence of multifetal pregnancies has been increasing steadily. Fetal complications such as prematurity, discordant growth, intrauterine fetal demise, twin-twin transfusion, and congenital anomalies account for a large share of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Maternal complications from multiple gestations are also significant. Recent trends in antepartum management such as multifetal pregnancy reduction, specialized prenatal care, and well-timed delivery have improved outcomes. Intrapartum management, including the possibility of asynchronous birth and critical assessment of mode of delivery, has also led to better outcomes. This review provides a brief summary of each of these topics with, a particular focus on the recent literature.
Smith-Levitin
M
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, New York, USA.
Skupski
D W
DW
Chervenak
F A
FA
D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011272:Pregnancy, Multiple; D011295:Prenatal Care