In multiple births there can be complications with the pregnancy and these complications should be addressed early with a doctor. The common types of complications are preterm labor, low birth weight, and intrauterine growth restriction. Preterm labor is when the delivery takes place before the 37thweeks of pregnancy – 60% of twins are delivered preterm; triplets are usually delivered five weeks before the due date. Low birth weight happens when the baby weighs less than 5.5 pounds. These babies have an increased risk of having long term health problems. Intrauterine growth restrictions happen because the babies are competing for nutrients which makes it difficult for the placenta to handle the growth.
Couples getting ready to have twins do not have to worry about complications. It is important to do some amount of research prior to your doctor’s appointment and ask as many questions as you see fit.