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Multiple pregnancy

Perinatal deaths in twin and singleton infants in Ireland: A comparison of characteristics and causes

Twin pregnancies face a 3x higher perinatal mortality risk than singleton pregnancies due to factors such as preterm birth. Our study in Ireland (2011–2022) highlights the need for updated, twin-specific guidelines & improved referral systems are essential to reduce risk.

Authors

Caroline O'Connor, Sara Leitao, Keelin O'Donoghue

Year
2024
Journal Name
Irish Journal of Medical Science
Category
Journal Article
Keywords
Multiple pregnancy
Project

MILESTONE

Full Citation

O'Connor C, Leitao S, Corcoran P, O'Donoghue K. Perinatal deaths in twin and singleton infants in Ireland: A comparison of characteristics and causes. Irish Journal of Medical Science. 2024. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-024-03829-9.

Link to Publication
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-024-03829-9

Abstract

Twin pregnancies have a higher risk of losing one or both babies during pregnancy or shortly after birth compared to single pregnancies. This is mainly due to complications like one or both babies growing slower than expected or being born too early. Our study, using data from 2011 to 2022 in Ireland, looked at the factors related to these risks in twin pregnancies and compared them to single pregnancies. Results showed that, while twins made up only 3.6% of all births, they accounted for 10.4% of baby losses. The loss rate for twins was over three times higher than for single pregnancies. Losses shortly after birth were more common in twins, while losses during pregnancy were more frequent in single pregnancies. Younger mothers and those with lower body weight faced higher risks in twin pregnancies. Many twin losses, especially in cases of birth defects or very early births, happened in hospitals without specialised care. This study underlines the need for updated twin-specific guidelines in Ireland to ensure early risk assessment, specialised care, and better referral systems to improve outcomes for twin pregnancies.

Pregnancy Loss Research Group

Pregnancy Loss Research Group, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University College Cork, Fifth Floor, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Wilton, Cork, T12 YE02, Ireland,

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