Every baby is a blessing, and twins are twice the blessing, however, with twins, comes higher risks for both the mother and children. One specific health condition, known as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, is specific to only multiple gestations.
What is twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome?
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome results from the transfer of blood from one twin, referred to as the donor twin, to the other, referred to as the recipient twin. Due to the decreased amount of blood that the donor twin receives through the placenta, the donor twin often suffers physically and developmentally as a result while the recipient twin is usually healthy.
What pregnancies are at risk for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome?
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome only occurs in identical twin pregnancies in which the twins share a placenta. Twins that are fraternal are not at risk for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Identical twins who each have their own placenta are also not at risk for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome may also occur in higher gestation pregnancies (i.e. triplets, quadruplets, etc) in which two or more of the fetuses are identical and share a placenta.
How is twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome diagnosed?
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is usually diagnosed by observation and measurement via ultrasound. A qualified caregiver is able to measure and observe the babies and their placenta and track (over a period of time) any significant differences in growth or development.
What are the risks of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome to the donor twin?
In cases of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, the donor twin is more likely to suffer than the recipient twin. The donor twin may not have been able to receive as many nutrients as the recipient twin, or even enough needed to grow and develop properly. In some cases, the donor twin may die prior to birth, or shortly after birth. In cases of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in which the donor twin survives, they are typically smaller (roughly 20%) than the recipient twin, and are more likely to be anemic.
Can twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome be prevented?
Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome cannot be prevented. Like identical twinning, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is completely spontaneous. There is nothing parents can do to prevent, or decrease the chances of their experiencing twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.