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Q.

What could happen to the babies in a multiple gestation?

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Answers From Experts & Organizations (1)

American Society for Reproductive MedicineSUCCESS!
American Society for Reproductive Medicine
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A.

The babies could be born too early, which is called premature birth. Half of all twins and 90% of all triplets are born prematurely. Babies born prematurely may have many health problems. Their lungs might not be strong enough, so they might have trouble breathing. The blood vessels in their brains might bleed easily. Many other birth defects are associated with multiple births as well. The babies will probably be underweight and may get sick or even die. Before birth, the babies might not get all the nutrition that is carried by the blood from their mother. This is particularly true if they share a placenta, the tissue that carries nutrients from the mother to the baby. The babies may not grow as fast as normal.

If the multiple babies share important blood vessels through a common placenta, they may develop heart problems or die. Twins, triplets, and other multiples are more likely to have problems with their brain development and nerves if they are born early. One of the more common problems is cerebral palsy, an abnormality of the brain. Other problems associated with multiple births may not become known for many years after delivery.

You can find more information from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine on this topic here:

http://www.reproductivefacts.org/Fertility_drugs_and_the_risk_of_multiple_births/

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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