An association of chorionicity with preterm twin birth.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the risk factors for preterm birth in twin pregnancies, particularly monochorionicity.


METHODS
A cohort study of 767 sets of twins, each twin weighing more than 500 g, born between January 1, 1992, and December 31, 2001, at St. Joseph's Health Care in London, Ontario. Statistical analysis was performed using forward stepwise logistic regression models, with gestational age at birth less than 28 or 32 weeks as the outcome.


RESULTS
Polyhydramnios and chorioamnionitis were significant risk factors for preterm birth prior to 28 or 32 weeks' gestation. Monochorionicity was a risk factor for preterm birth prior to 32 weeks' gestation. Past term birth and maternal age over 30 years were associated with reduced risk for preterm birth.


CONCLUSIONS
Monochorionic placentation is a significant risk factor for preterm twin birth.
Penava
Debora
D
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Ontario, London ON.
Natale
Renato
R
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001724:Birth Weight; D002823:Chorion / Q000502:physiology*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D016015:Logistic Models; D008423:Maternal Age; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D009864:Ontario; D011247:Pregnancy; D011272:Pregnancy, Multiple; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D014429:Twins, Dizygotic; D014430:Twins, Monozygotic