Selective Fetal Reduction of Uncomplicated Dichorionic Twins on Parental Request Versus Ongoing Twins and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of elective fetal reduction in uncomplicated twin pregnancies on maternal-fetal outcomes, compared to ongoing twin pregnancies. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Scopus (until December 2023), and references of retrieved articles. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS: Quality assessment of observational studies was conducted using the ROBINS-I tool. The overall quality of evidence was evaluated per GRADE. A quantitative analysis was performed for electively reduced dichorionic twins. Primary outcome was preterm birth. Secondary outcomes were gestational age at delivery, stillbirth and neonatal intensive care unit, gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-eclampsia, and pregnancy loss < 24 weeks of gestation. Summary odds ratio (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and random-effects models were used for data synthesis. RESULTS: The initial electronic search yielded 745 studies; 175 studies were further identified from reference citations. Five articles included appropriate data and were finally included in the meta-analysis. All studies were evaluated as "moderate risk of bias". Those five studies reported on dichorionic twins. Elective reduction in dichorionic twins reduces the risk for preterm birth <37 weeks (4 studies; n=1577; OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.09-0.22, moderate-quality evidence), <34 weeks (3 studies; n=1335; OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.07-0.69; low-quality evidence), <32 weeks (3 studies; n=1335; OR 0.31, 95% CI, 0.11-0.88; low-quality evidence), gestational diabetes (3 studies; n= 1410; OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.33-0.97, low-quality evidence), pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders (2 studies; n=581; OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.10-0.83; low-quality evidence), birthweight <10th centile (2 studies; n=1163; OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.17-0.43; moderate-quality evidence), birthweight< 5th centile (2 studies; n=1163; OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.19-0.50; low-quality evidence) and increases gestational age at delivery {four studies; n= 1362; MD 2.93 weeks, 95% CI 2.08-3.77; moderate-quality evidence}. The risk for stillbirth (2 studies; n= 1311; OR 1.63, 95% CI 0.43-6.21; very low-quality evidence) or pregnancy loss< 24 weeks (3 studies; n=1436; OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.55-2.58; very low-quality evidence) were not statistically significant different. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to ongoing dichorionic twin pregnancies, dichorionic pregnancies that undergo elective selective fetal reduction are associated with lower incidences of preterm birth < 37 weeks, <34 weeks, <32 weeks, birthweight <10th centile and <5th centile, gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and later gestational age at delivery by almost 3 weeks. These associations were often based on very low quality of evidence; so these results should be interpreted with caution and further studies should be conducted.

Interventions for women with premature cervical dilatation and exposed fetal membranes to prevent pregnancy loss and preterm birth - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The management of women with premature cervical dilatation and exposed unruptured fetal membranes remains uncertain and controversial. Treatment options may include expectant management or emergency cervical cerclage (ECC). Little is known regarding the effectiveness of individual interventions, or additional therapies. This systematic review aims to summarise all existing evidence to improve understanding of the treatment options and pregnancy outcomes for women presenting with premature cervical dilatation. METHODS: Databases were searched using a prospective protocol (CRD42021286275). Studies were eligible for inclusion across five distinct comparison groups if they included women with premature cervical dilatation and reported clinical outcomes. Primary outcome was pregnancy loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death and termination of pregnancy). Planned subgroups included singletons and twins, and low-cervical or high-cervical suture. Pairwise random effects meta-analysis calculated in RevMan5.4, single arm random effects proportional meta-analysis calculated using RevMan and R studio. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. RESULTS: 6781 abstracts were screened, and 177 (four randomised controlled trials) studies included in the five analysis groups. Women receiving ECC were significantly less likely to experience pregnancy loss (combined RR 0.48 95 %CI 0.39-0.59 singleton RR 0.48 95 %CI 0.34-0.67 twin only RR 0.39 95 %CI 0.26-0.58) compared to expectant management. Adjuvant amnioreduction with ECC was not found to reduce pregnancy loss (RR 1.12 (95 % CI 0.73-1.72) or any other outcomes compared to ECC without amnioreduction. Women were significantly more likely to experience pregnancy loss (RR3.85 95 %CI 3.13-4.74) after ECC compared to planned cerclage. The probability of intra-operative rupture of membranes at ECC insertion was 3.3 % (95 %CI 1.8-5.1) and the probability of an ECC attempt being abandoned was 2.6 % (95 %CI 1.1-4.6 %). DISCUSSION: ECC appears to reduce the risk of pregnancy loss for both singletons and twins although the overall quality of evidence is poor. It is important that women are counselled regarding the outcomes following cerclage according to indication. Pregnancy complications are common after ECC although the rates of intra-operative complications are lower than may be anticipated. Randomised trials remain imperative for understanding the role of ECC and adjunctive treatments in preventing pregnancy loss in this condition.

First-trimester uterine artery Doppler and hypertensive disorders in twin pregnancies: Use of twin versus singleton references.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the association of first-trimester uterine artery Doppler with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in twin pregnancies. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of twin pregnancies followed at the University Hospital Center of Central Lisbon, Portugal, between January 2010 and December 2022. First-trimester uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) was determined and compared between twin pregnancies (n = 454) and singleton pregnancies (n = 908), matched to maternal and pregnancy characteristics. Maternal characteristics and mean UtA-PI were analyzed for gestational age, birth weight, gestational hypertension, early- and late-onset pre-eclampsia, HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets) syndrome, and preterm birth. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used. RESULTS: The mean first-trimester UtA-PI was significantly lower in dichorionic twins than in singletons (P < 0.001). To study hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in twins, 390 pregnancies were included: 311 (79.7%) dichorionic and 79 (20.3%) monochorionic twins. The observed rates of early- and late-onset pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension, and HELLP syndrome were 1.0%, 4.4%, 7.4%, and 1.5%, respectively. We achieved a 100% detection rate for early-onset pre-eclampsia using the UtA-PI 90th centile for twins. However, when singleton references were considered, the detection rate decreased to 50%. UtA-PI at or above the 95th centile was associated with increased odds for preterm birth before 32 weeks (adjusted odds ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.0-16.7, P = 0.043). CONCLUSIONS: Unless other major risk factors for hypertensive disorders are present, women with low UtA-PI will probably not benefit from aspirin prophylaxis. Close monitoring of all twin pregnancies for hypertensive disorders is still recommended.

Diagnostic accuracy of cell-free DNA in maternal blood in detecting chromosomal anomalies in twin pregnancies: systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To report the diagnostic accuracy of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in maternal blood in detecting chromosomal anomalies in twin pregnancies. METHODS: Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched. The inclusion criteria were twin pregnancies undergoing cfDNA screening for Trisomies 13, 18, 21, monosomy X0 and other sex chromosomal anomalies (SCA). The index test was represented by a positive results of cfDNA test. The reference standard was represented by the karyotype results (obtained either pre or postnatally) or, in case of negative cfDNA result, by a normal neonatal phenotype. The quality of the studies was assessed using the revised tool for the quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies (QUADAS-2). Summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), with the corresponding 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI), were computed using the bivariate random-effects model. RESULTS: Thirty-five studies were included. cfDNA had an overall high accuracy in detecting Trisomy 21 in twin pregnancies with a sensitivity of 98.8% (95% CI 96.5-100), a specificity of 100% (95% CI 99.9-100). Sensitivity and specificity were of 94.9% (95% CI 75.6-99.1) and 100 (95% CI 99.9-100) for Trisomy 18, and 84.6% (95% C% 54.6-98.1) and 100% (95% CI 99.9-100) for Trisomy 13 . We could not compute the diagnostic accuracy of cfDNA in detecting monosomy X0 in twins, while cfDNA had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 71.5-100) and a specificity of 99.8% (95% CI 99.7-99.9) in detecting other SCA (11 cases). The accuracy of cfDNA in detecting Trisomy 21, 18 and 13 was similar in dichorionic and monochorionic twin pregnancies. CONCLUSION: cfDNA has a high diagnostic accuracy in detecting Trisomy 18 and 21 in twin pregnancies, irrespective of chorionicity. Accuracy in the detection of Trisomy 13 and SCA was limited by the small number of affected cases and the difficulties in the confirmation of false negative cases in case of SCA and requires confirmation in larger studies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Vasoactive Management of Pulmonary Hypertension and Ventricular Dysfunction in Neonates Following Complicated Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies: A Single-Center Experience.

OBJECTIVES: Twins resulting from a complicated monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancy are at risk for postnatal evolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and cardiac dysfunction (CD). Both pathologies are important contributors to short- and long-term morbidity in these infants. The aim of the present retrospective single-center cohort study was to evaluate the need for vasoactive treatment for PH and CD in these neonates. METHODOLOGY: In-born neonates following a complicated MC twin pregnancy admitted to the department of neonatology of the University Children's Hospital Bonn (UKB) between October 2019 and December 2023 were screened for study inclusion. Finally, 70 neonates were included in the final analysis, with 37 neonates subclassified as recipient twins (group A) and 33 neonates as donor twins (group B). RESULTS: The overall PH incidence at day of life (DOL) 1 was 17% and decreased to 6% at DOL 7 (p = 0.013), with no PH findings at DOL 28. The overall incidence of CD was 56% at DOL 1 and decreased strongly until DOL 7 (10%, p = 0.015), with no diagnosis of CD at DOL 28. The use of dobutamine, norepinephrine, and vasopressin at DOL 1 until DOL 7 did not differ between the subgroups, whereas the dosing of milrinone was significantly higher in Group B at DOL 1 (p = 0.043). Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) was used in 16% of the cohort, and a levosimendan therapy was administered in 34% of the neonates. One-third of the cohort was treated with oral beta blockers, and in 10%, an intravenous beta blockade (landiolol) was administered. The maximum levosimendan vasoactive-inotropic score (LVISmax) increased from DOL 1 (12.4 [3/27]) to DOL 2 (14.6 [1/68], p = 0.777), with a significant decrease thereafter as measured at DOL 7 (9.5 [2/30], p = 0.011). CONCLUSION: Early PH and CD are frequent diagnoses in neonates following a complicated MC twin pregnancy, and an individualized vasoactive treatment strategy is required in the management of these infants.

First-trimester serum biomarkers in twin pregnancies and adverse obstetric outcomes-a single center cohort study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the association of first-trimester maternal serum biomarkers with preterm birth (PTB), fetal growth restriction (FGR) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in twin pregnancies. METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of twin pregnancies followed at Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa, Lisbon, Portugal, between January 2010 and December 2022. We included women who completed first-trimester screening in our unit and had ongoing pregnancies with two live fetuses, and delivered after 24 weeks. Maternal characteristics, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and ß-human chorionic gonadotropin (ß-hCG) levels were analyzed for different outcomes: small for gestational age (SGA), gestational hypertension (GH), early and late-onset pre-eclampsia (PE), as well as the composite outcome of PTB associated with FGR and/or HDP. Univariable, multivariable logistic regression analyses and receiver-operating characteristic curve were used. RESULTS: 466 twin pregnancies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 185 (39.7%) pregnancies were affected by SGA < 5th percentile and/or HDP. PAPP-A demonstrated a linear association with gestational age at birth and mean birth weight. PAPP-A proved to be an independent risk factor for SGA and PTB (< 34 and < 36 weeks) related to FGR and/or HDP. None of the women with PAPP-A MoM > 90th percentile developed early-onset PE or PTB < 34 weeks. CONCLUSION: A high serum PAPP-A (> 90th percentile) ruled out early-onset PE and PTB < 34 weeks. Unless other major risk factors for hypertensive disorders are present, these women should not be considered candidates for aspirin prophylaxis. Nevertheless, close monitoring of all TwP for adverse obstetric outcomes is still recommended.

Impact factors and obstetric outcomes of preeclampsia in twin pregnancies by prepregnancy body mass index: a six-year retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES: Among many risk factors for preeclampsia (PE), prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) is one of few controllable factors. However, there is a lack of stratified analysis based on the prepregnancy BMI. This study aimed to determine the influencing factors for PE and assess the impact of PE on obstetric outcomes in twin pregnancies by prepregnancy BMI. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2022, in Southwest China. Impact factors and associations between PE and obstetric outcomes were analyzed separately for twin pregnancies with prepregnancy BMI < 24kg/m2 (non-overweight group) and BMI ≥ 24kg/m2 (overweight group). RESULTS: In total, 3602 twin pregnancies were included, of which, 672 women were allocated into the overweight group and 11.8% of them reported with PE; 2930 women were allocated into the non-overweight group, with a PE incidence of 5.6%. PE had a negative effect on birthweight and increased the incidence of neonatal intensive care unit admission in both the overweight and non-overweight groups (43.0% vs. 28.0%, p = .008; 45.7% vs. 29.1%, p < .001). Among overweight women, PE increased the proportion of postpartum hemorrhage (15.2% vs. 4.4%, p < .001). After adjustments, multivariate regression analysis showed that excessive gestational weight gain (aOR = 1.103, 95% CI: 1.056-1.152; aOR = 1.094, 95% CI: 1.064-1.126) and hypoproteinemia (aOR = 2.828, 95% CI: 1.501-5.330; aOR = 6.932, 95% CI: 4.819-9.971) were the shared risk factors for PE in both overweight and non-overweight groups. In overweight group, in vitro fertilization was the other risk factor (aOR = 2.713, 95% CI: 1.183-6.878), whereas dichorionic fertilization (aOR = 0.435, 95% CI: 0.193-0.976) and aspirin use during pregnancy (aOR = 0.456, 95% CI: 0.246-0.844) were protective factors. Additionally, anemia during pregnancy (aOR = 1.542, 95% CI: 1.090-2.180) and growth discordance in twins (aOR = 2.451, 95% CI: 1.215-4.205) were connected with an increased risk of PE only in non-overweight twin pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS: Both discrepancy and similarity of impact factors on developing PE were found between overweight and non-overweight twin pregnancies in this study. However, the dosage and initiation time of aspirin, as well as twin chorionicity on the occurrence of PE in two subgroups, are still debated.

Maternal vitamin D status and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in twin pregnancies: a longitudinal twin pregnancies birth cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy, with significant short-term and long-term implications for both mothers and their offspring. Previous studies have indicated the potential benefits of vitamin D in reducing the risk of GDM, yet little is known about this association in twin pregnancies. This study aimed to investigate maternal vitamin D status in the second trimester and examine its association with the risk of GDM in twin pregnancies. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study based on data from the Chongqing Longitudinal Twin Study (LoTiS). Peripheral blood serum was collected from the mothers in the second trimester to measure 25(OH)D concentrations. GDM was diagnosed at 23-26 weeks of gestation using a 75-g 2-h oral glucose tolerance test. We used multivariable logistic regression analyses to examine the correlations between vitamin D status and the risk of GDM. RESULTS: Of the total participants, 93 (29.9%) women were diagnosed with GDM. The mean serum 25(OH)D concentration in the second trimester was 31.1 ± 11.2 ng/mL, and the rate of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency were 23.5% and 18.7%, respectively. Compared to women with a 25(OH)D concentration < 30 ng/mL, those with a 25(OH)D concentration ≥ 30 ng/mL had a significantly lower risk of GDM (RR 0.61; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.86), especially those who were overweight before pregnancy (RR 0.32; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.64). The restricted cubic splines model showed an inverted J-shaped relationship between vitamin D concentrations and GDM risk. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of GDM was significantly reduced in twin pregnant women with vitamin D concentrations ≥ 30 ng/mL in the second trimester. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR-OOC-16,008,203. Retrospectively registered on 1 April 2016.

Meta-analysis comparing different ultrasound detection methods to accurately assess wound healing and scar formation after caesarean section.

The accurate assessment of wound healing post-caesarean section, especially in twin pregnancies, remains a pivotal concern in obstetrics, given its implications for maternal health and recovery. Traditional methods, including conventional abdominal ultrasonography (CU), have been challenged by the advent of transvaginal ultrasonography (TU), offering potentially enhanced sensitivity and specificity. This meta-analysis directly compares the efficacy of TU and CU in evaluating wound healing and scar formation, crucial for optimizing postoperative care. Results indicate that TU is associated with significantly better outcomes in wound healing, demonstrated by lower REEDA scores (SMD = -20.56, 95% CI: [-27.34.20, -13.77], p < 0.01), and in scar formation reduction, evidenced by lower Manchester Scar Scale scores (SMD = -25.18, 95% CI: [-29.98, -20.39], p < 0.01). These findings underscore the potential of integrating TU into routine post-caesarean evaluation protocols to enhance care quality and patient recovery.

Is the mental health of couples with twins more at risk? Results from an Italian cohort study.

Introduction: Our retrospective study aimed to investigate whether parents of twins encounter heightened psychological and emotional distress one year after childbirth, in comparison to parents of singletons within an Italian cohort. Methods: Exclusion criteria included multiparity, preterm birth, congenital anomalies, stillbirth, >2 fetus pregnancies, and pre-existing maternal mental health disorders. Out of the 300 couples (600 parents) invited to participate, 286 parents (158 mothers, 128 fathers) successfully completed a self-administered survey. We analyzed three scores separately for mothers and fathers, differentiating between singleton and twin pregnancies: the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score, the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)-Y1 score, and the STAI-Y2 score. Results: Logistic models were used to assess the influence of age, BMI, marital status, education, and employment on the three binary scores (EPDS, STAI-Y1, and STAI-Y2), revealing no significant differences in absolute scores between parents of singletons and twins. Paired analysis revealed significantly higher EPDS (mean increase: 3.8, SD: 6.5), STAI-Y1 (mean increase: 5.4, SD: 12.5), and STAI-Y2 (mean increase: 4.5, SD: 12.4) scores for mothers (p < 0.0001). Approximately 10% of women and 8% of men reported suicidal thoughts. Discussion: Contrary to expectations, no substantial psychological differences emerged between parents of twins and singletons. Adjusting for confounders through univariate analysis maintained nonsignificant trends. Nevertheless, caution in interpretation is warranted due to strict inclusion criteria favoring twin pregnancies with better outcomes. Unintended bias could have resulted from routine psychological support offered to mothers of twins in our clinic. This presents an important framework for future research, including randomized controlled trials comparing parents of multiples with psychological support to those without.Finally, the elevated prevalence of depression symptoms and suicidal thoughts in our cohort underscores the importance of mental health during pregnancy and early parenting. We advocate for the screening of parents for postpartum depression and various psychological conditions, encompassing a spectrum of anxiety disorders. Those at elevated risk of mental distress should be proactively offered appropriate support.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes of dichorionic twin pregnancies achieved with assisted reproductive technology: meta-analysis of contemporary data.

PURPOSE: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is commonly used to achieve pregnancy and often results in dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twin pregnancies. However, the potential risks of ART on maternal and neonatal outcomes in these pregnancies are not well understood. The objective is to compare the maternal and neonatal outcomes in DCDA twin pregnancies between those achieved through ART and those spontaneously conceived (SC). METHODS: We carried out a systematic comprehensive search of electronic databases; namely, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, from inception to March 2023 with a study period of recruitment between 2003 and 2023. We included all studies comparing the maternal and neonatal outcomes of DCDA twin pregnancies between those achieved by ART and those SC. RESULTS: We analyzed data from 18 cohort studies involving 10,485 women with DCDA twin pregnancies. The meta-analysis showed that ART-conceived pregnancies had a significantly higher risk of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension (GH), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), placenta previa (PP), placental abruption (PA), postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), and elective and emergency cesarean sections than SC twin pregnancies. The absolute risks of these complications remained relatively low. We also found a slightly higher risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and congenital malformations in ART-conceived infants compared to the risks in SC infants. Finally, the risk of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions was significantly higher in ART-conceived infants than in SC infants, but with high heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: We found associations between DCDA twin pregnancies conceived through ART and increased frequencies of adverse maternal outcomes. However, the absolute risks of these complications remained low, and the benefits of ART for achieving successful pregnancies may well outweigh the potential risks. Additionally, ART-conceived DCDA twin pregnancies may pose higher risks of RDS, congenital malformations and NICU, admissions than SC DCDA twin pregnancies.

Cell-free DNA screening in twin pregnancies.

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening for fetal aneuploidies is clinically available and exhibits better performance than conventional serum screening tests. However, data on the clinical performance of cfDNA screening in twin pregnancies are limited. In this review, we summarized the clinical performance and evaluated the feasibility of cfDNA screening in twin pregnancies based on recent studies and recommendations. The performance of cfDNA screening for trisomy 21 in twin pregnancies is similar to that in singleton pregnancies. Specifically, cfDNA screening has a higher detection rate and lower false-positive rate compared with conventional serum screening. Consequently, recent international guidelines from several academic communities have recommended that cfDNA screening for aneuploidy in twin pregnancies could be considered. Moreover, twin pregnancies can present with specific conditions, such as different zygosities and vanishing twins; therefore, individualized counseling and management are required. Further clinical studies with more twin pregnancies are required for a more accurate analysis.

Synergistic effect between pre-pregnancy smoking and assisted reproductive technology on gestational diabetes mellitus in twin pregnancies.

AIM: Women with twin pregnancies have an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Assisted reproductive technology (ART) and pre-pregnancy smoking were both associated with GDM. However, the relationships between pre-pregnancy smoking and ART and GDM in twin pregnancies were unclear. Herein, this study aims to explore the roles of pre-pregnancy smoking and ART in GDM among women with twin pregnancies. METHODS: Data of women with twin pregnancies were extracted from the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) database in 2016-2020 in this retrospective cohort study. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the associations between pre-pregnancy smoking and ART and GDM in women with twin pregnancies. The evaluation index was odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analysis of age and BMI was also performed. RESULTS: A total of 19,860 (9.15%) women had GDM in our study. After adjusting for covariates, we found that receiving ART was associated with high odds of GDM [OR = 1.41, 95% CI (1.34-1.48)], while pre-pregnancy smoking combined with ART was associated with higher odds of GDM [OR = 1.66, 95% CI (1.14-2.42)]. In addition, these relationships were also found in women who aged ≥ 35 years old [OR = 1.98, 95% CI (1.14-3.44)] and with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 [OR = 1.69, 95% CI (1.11-2.55)]. CONCLUSION: Pre-pregnancy smoking may further increase the risk of GDM from ART in women with twin pregnancies. In clinical, women who are ready to receive ART treatment are recommend to quit smoking, which may reduce the risk of GDM and prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Selective fetal growth restriction in dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy: systematic review and meta-analysis of pregnancy and perinatal outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: Most of the published literature on selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) has focused on monochorionic twin pregnancies. The aim of this systematic review was to report on the outcome of dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twin pregnancies complicated by sFGR. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library databases were searched. The inclusion criteria were DCDA twin pregnancies complicated by sFGR. The outcomes explored were intrauterine death (IUD), neonatal death and perinatal death (PND), survival of at least one and both twins, preterm birth (PTB) (either spontaneous or iatrogenic) prior to 37, 34, 32 and 28 weeks' gestation, pre-eclampsia (PE) or gestational hypertension, neurological, respiratory and infectious morbidity, Apgar score < 7 at 5 min, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A composite outcome of neonatal morbidity, defined as the occurrence of respiratory, neurological or infectious morbidity, was also evaluated. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to analyze the data, and results are reported as pooled proportion or odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI. RESULTS: Thirteen studies reporting on 1339 pregnancies with sFGR and 6316 pregnancies without sFGR were included. IUD occurred in 2.6% (95% CI, 1.1-4.7%) of fetuses from DCDA pregnancies with sFGR and 0.6% (95% CI, 0.3-9.7%) of those from DCDA pregnancies without sFGR, while the respective values for PND were 5.2% (95% CI, 3.5-7.3%) and 1.7% (95% CI, 0.1-5.7%). Spontaneous or iatrogenic PTB before 37 weeks complicated 84.1% (95% CI, 55.6-99.2%) of pregnancies with sFGR and 69.1% (95% CI, 45.4-88.4%) of those without sFGR. The respective values for PTB before 34, 32 and 28 weeks were 18.4% (95% CI, 4.4-38.9%), 13.0% (95% CI, 9.5-17.1%) and 1.5% (95% CI, 0.6-2.3%) in pregnancies with sFGR and 10.2% (95% CI, 3.1-20.7%), 7.8% (95% CI, 6.8-9.0%) and 1.8% (95% CI, 1.3-2.4%) in those without sFGR. PE or gestational hypertension complicated 19.9% (95% CI, 12.4-28.6%) of pregnancies with sFGR and 12.8% (95% CI, 10.4-15.4%) of those without sFGR. Composite morbidity occurred in 28.2% (95% CI, 7.8-55.1%) of fetuses from pregnancies with sFGR and 13.9% (95% CI, 6.5-23.5%) of those from pregnancies without sFGR. When stratified according to the sFGR status within a twin pair, composite morbidity occurred in 39.0% (95% CI, 11.1-71.5%) of growth-restricted fetuses and 29.9% (95% CI, 3.5-65.0%) of appropriately grown fetuses (OR, 1.9 (95% CI, 1.7-3.1)), while the respective values for PND were 3.0% (95% CI, 1.8-4.5%) and 1.6% (95% CI, 0.9-2.6%) (OR, 2.1 (95% CI, 1.0-4.1)). On risk analysis, DCDA pregnancies complicated by sFGR had a significantly higher risk of IUD (OR, 5.2 (95% CI, 3.2-8.6)) and composite morbidity or admission to the NICU (OR, 3.2 (95% CI, 1.9-5.6)) compared to those without sFGR, while there was no difference in the risk of PTB before 34 weeks (P = 0.220) or PE/gestational hypertension (P = 0.210). CONCLUSIONS: DCDA twin pregnancies complicated by sFGR are at high risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality. The findings of this systematic review are relevant for counseling and management of complicated DCDA twin pregnancies, in which twin-specific, rather than singleton, outcome data should be used. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Effect of Third Interstitial Fluid on Adverse Outcomes in Patients with Severe Pre-eclampsia and Twin Pregnancy: A 5-year Single-center Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify the effect of third interstitial fluid on adverse outcomes in twin pregnancies with severe pre-eclampsia, and explore the differences in bad ending between twins and singletons. METHODS: The present retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients with severe pre-eclampsia, who delivered in Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, China, between 2017 and 2022. The adverse outcomes in singleton and twin pregnancies with severe pre-eclampsia were initially investigated. Then, the diverse maternal and fetal consequences between singleton and twin pregnancies in patients with severe pre-eclampsia were compared after merging with the third interstitial fluid. RESULTS: A total of 709 patients were included for the present study. Among these patients, 68 patients had twin pregnancies, and 641 patients had singleton pregnancies. The rate of postpartum hemorrhage (2.81% vs. 13.24%, P<0.001), and admission rate to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) after birth (30.73% vs. 63.24%, P=0.011) were significantly higher in twin pregnancies. The neonatal weight of twins was statistically lower than singletons (1964.73±510.61 g vs. 2142.92±731.25 g, P=0.008). For the groups with the third interstitial fluid, the delivery week (P=0.001) and rate of admission to the NICU after birth were significantly advanced in twin pregnancy group, when compared to singleton pregnancy group (P=0.032), and the length of hospital stay was shorter (P=0.044). Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between the twin pregnancy group and the singletony pregnancy group without the third interstitial fluid. CONCLUSION: The maternal and fetal adverse outcomes of patients with severe pre-eclampsia increased in twin pregnancies, when compared to singleton pregnancies. Thus, when patients develop the third interstitial fluid, twin pregnancies would more likely lead to adverse fetal outcomes, when compared to singleton pregnancies, and there would be no significant difference in maternal adverse outcomes. More attention should be given to patients who merge with the third interstitial fluid.

The role of estimated fetal weight discordance in dichorionic twin pregnancies.

Evaluation of relative fetal growth in the form of estimated fetal weight discordance (EFWd) is a necessary element of any ultrasound examination in twin pregnancies. It is one of the criteria for the diagnosis of selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) according to the most established worldwide guidelines. Apart from the effectiveness of this parameter for the diagnosis of sFGR, it may also be used as an independent factor for risk stratification of neonatal and maternal complications. Furthermore, numerous studies have proven the greater prognostic value of EFWd in dichorionic pregnancies, which may result from differences in the pathogenesis of fetal growth abnormalities in mono- and dichorionic pregnancies. Because of the variability of this parameter throughout pregnancy, there is an ongoing discussion regarding replacing or individualizing it with percentile charts. An additional element, complementary to EFWd in assessing the risk of complications in twin pregnancies is the use of this measurement in combination with Doppler assessment, which increases its predictive value. The use of EFWd as one of the factors influencing care and decision-making in dichorionic twin pregnancies seems to be a simple and effective method, however, further research assessing the use and possible applications of this indicator is necessary.

Delivery Methods in Twin Gestations: Evaluating Outcomes, Risk Factors, and the Paradigm Shift Towards Elective Cesarean Deliveries.

During the past decade, there has been a consistent rise in the number of twin births and the number of overall cesarean sections (CS) worldwide. This is owed to a variety of social, economic, educational, and scientific factors. More women are opting to advance their professional careers and gain financial stability before having children. Although this approach is understandable, a new set of challenges are faced as a result, the most important of which has been infertility due to advanced maternal age and the subsequent use of assisted fertility treatments, which have been noted to cause multiple gestations. Twin gestations are considered high-risk pregnancies and are associated with an amplitude of potential complications. Arguably, the biggest decision an obstetrician must make when dealing with this population is choosing the most appropriate mode of delivery. Given the lack of clear guidance pertaining to twin deliveries, CSs may often be perceived as safer and are often preferred over vaginal deliveries (VD). In this narrative review, we aimed to compare the outcomes of different delivery methods (CS versus VD) to investigate whether CS is truly superior to VD. Data were collected from the past two decades and analyzed based on the neonatal and maternal outcomes for each delivery mode. Our results indicate that planned VD is just as safe as CS, if not superior, in most uncomplicated twin pregnancies. Thus, it is best to advise and encourage healthy expecting twin carriers to undergo VD and explore any hesitations or fears they might have. Furthermore, a detailed guideline regarding twin delivery is essential to establish and better navigate twin deliveries, lower the rate of unnecessary CSs, and reduce overall twin gestation morbidity and mortality.

Retrospective Study of the Correlation Between Twin Pregnancies and Perinatal Outcome in Association to the Impact of Preterm Birth.

Background: Twin pregnancies make up 2% to 4% of all births. Incidence of spontaneous twin pregnancies varies around the world, with percentages ranging from 8/1000 to >17/1000 births. The variation in twin pregnancy rates is thought to be due to dizygotic pregnancies, since monozygotic pregnancies have a consistent incidence of 3.5/1000 to 4/1000 births. The incidence of twin pregnancies after the widespread use of assisted reproduction has increased significantly. Objective: The purpose of the present study is to investigate factors , who contribute to improve the perinatal outcome in twin pregnancies. Support will be provided by the results of twin pregnancies by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Demokrition University of Thrace (Alexandroupolis, Greece) in the last fifteen years. Methods: From the above Department, data were collected on the number of twin pregnancies, maternal age, gestational age, mode of delivery (spontaneous delivery or caesarean section), birth weight and rate of twin pregnancies with assisted reproduction. Results: The results showed the increasing trend of twin pregnancies and births. A total of 304 twin pregnancies were identified (rate 2.75%). The rate of assisted reproduction was 34.83% in our sample, while the rate of cesarean deliveries was 95.5%, showing a large increase in recent years. In ten cases, normal delivery was successfully performed. The gestational age in twin pregnancies that ended with normal delivery was 37.37 + 3 weeks and the fetuses were both cephalic presentations. The main reason for admission of newborns to the NICU Department was prematurity. Conclusion: The constantly improving education of perinatalists and understanding of the pathophysiology may lead to individualization of their treatment, and improvement of their prognosis based on recent scientific data from other international centers.

Associations between velamentous or marginal cord insertion and risk of adverse perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Velamentous cord insertion (VCI) and marginal cord insertion (MCI) are well-known risk factors for adverse perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies. However, the potential links between VCI or MCI and perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies have yet to be systematically evaluated. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between VCI or MCI and perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies. METHODS: This retrospective single-center cohort study included women with twin pregnancies who gave birth in a tertiary hospital in Southwest, China between January 2017 and December 2022. VCI and MCI were identified by abdominal ultrasound and confirmed after placental delivery. Logistic regression, multinomial logit regression and generalized estimation equation models were used to evaluate the association between VCI or MCI and perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 3682 twin pregnancies were included, including 100 (2.7%) pregnancies with VCI and 149 (4.0%) pregnancies with MCI. Compared to pregnancies with normal cord insertion, both monochorionic and dichorionic pregnancies with VCI were associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery 32-34 weeks (aRRR 2.94, 95% CI 1.03-8.39; aRRR 2.55, 95% CI 1.19-5.46, respectively), while pregnancies with MCI were not associated with preterm delivery. VCI was associated with a higher incidence of placental previa (aOR 6.36, 95% CI 1.92-21.04) in monochorionic pregnancies and placental accreta (aOR 1.85, 95% CI 1.06-3.23) in dichorionic pregnancies. MCI was associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia (aOR 3.07, 95% CI 1.49-6.32), intertwin birthweight discordance ≥ 20% (aOR 2.40, 95% CI 1.08-5.60) and selective fetal growth restriction (aOR 2.46, 95% CI 1.08-5.60) in monochorionic pregnancies and small-for-gestational age neonates (aOR 1.97, 95% CI 1.24-3.14) in dichorionic pregnancies. CONCLUSIONS: VCI was associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery in twin pregnancies irrespective of chorionicity, whereas MCI was associated with an increased preeclampsia risk, significant intertwin birthweight discordance in monochorionic pregnancies and small-for-gestational age neonates in dichorionic pregnancies.

Different subtypes of gestational diabetes mellitus are associated with distinct perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies.

AIMS: To determine whether different gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) subtypes are associated with distinct perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies. MATERIALS: This retrospective cohort study enrolled women with twin pregnancies who gave birth at a tertiary hospital between January 2017 and December 2022. GDM was diagnosed by the IADPSG diagnostic criteria. Three subtypes of GDM were defined as only abnormal fasting glucose (OAFG) values, only abnormal post-load glucose (OAPG) values and abnormal combined fasting and post-load glucose (ACFPG) values. Logistic regression or generalized estimation equation models were used to test the correlation of subtypes of GDM and perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: GDM with OAPG had a slightly higher risk for preterm delivery (PTD) at <37 gestational weeks (aOR 1.22, 95 %CI 1.01-1.47) and neonatalintensivecareunit (NICU) admission (aOR 1.31, 95 %CI 1.09-1.57). GDM with ACFPG were associated with PTD at <37 gestational weeks (aOR 1.42, 95 %CI 1.06-1.89) and PTD at <34 gestational weeks (aOR 1.65, 95 % CI 1.14-2.39). GDM with OAFG had a lower risk of being small-for-gestational age (SGA) (aOR 0.48, 95 % CI 0.26-0.92). CONCLUSIONS: Different subtypes of GDM are associated with distinct perinatal outcomes. Only abnormal fasting glucose levels may be responsible for reduced the risk of SGA neonates.