Twin Pregnancy Terms Explained: The Complete A–Z Glossary for Expecting Parents

Finding out you're expecting twins often means learning an entirely new vocabulary.

From your very first ultrasound, you'll likely hear terms like chorionicity, growth discordance, NST, or Baby A. While these words become familiar over time, they can feel overwhelming at first.

This glossary explains the most common twin pregnancy terms in plain English so you can better understand your appointments, ultrasounds, and conversations with your healthcare team.

Whether you're newly pregnant or preparing for delivery, bookmark this page and come back whenever you hear a term you don't recognize.


A


Anatomy Scan

The anatomy scan is a detailed ultrasound usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. During this exam, your provider carefully evaluates each baby's organs, spine, heart, brain, limbs, placenta, and amniotic fluid.

For twins, this scan usually takes longer because each baby is examined individually.

See also: Twin Pregnancy Anatomy Scan Guide

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test that uses a thin needle to collect a small sample of amniotic fluid. The sample can be tested for certain genetic conditions or chromosome abnormalities.

Unlike screening tests such as NIPT, amniocentesis provides a diagnosis, but it also carries a small risk of complications. Your provider will discuss whether it's appropriate for your pregnancy.

Amniotic Fluid

Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid surrounding each baby inside the uterus. It cushions your babies, helps regulate temperature, allows movement, and supports healthy lung development.

During ultrasounds, your provider measures amniotic fluid levels because too much or too little fluid can sometimes indicate a pregnancy complication.

Amnionicity

Amnionicity refers to whether twins share an amniotic sac or each have their own.

Most twins have separate amniotic sacs. Rarely, identical twins share the same sac, creating a higher-risk pregnancy that requires very close monitoring.

Aneuploidy

Aneuploidy means a baby has an abnormal number of chromosomes.

Prenatal screening tests like NIPT estimate the chance of certain chromosome conditions, while diagnostic tests like amniocentesis can confirm them.

Antenatal Testing

Antenatal testing refers to tests performed during pregnancy to monitor your babies' health and well-being.

Examples include:

  • Nonstress Tests (NSTs)

  • Biophysical Profiles (BPPs)

  • Growth ultrasounds

  • Doppler studies

Twin pregnancies often involve more antenatal testing than singleton pregnancies.


B


Baby A

Baby A is the twin closest to the cervix.

Healthcare providers use this label throughout pregnancy to consistently identify each baby during ultrasounds and delivery planning.

Baby A is not necessarily the older twin by conception, but is often the first baby born during delivery.

Baby B

Baby B is the twin positioned farther from the cervix.

Your healthcare team tracks each baby's growth, position, and health separately throughout pregnancy.

Biophysical Profile (BPP)

A Biophysical Profile (BPP) is a prenatal test that combines an ultrasound with a Nonstress Test (NST).

The test evaluates several signs of fetal well-being, including:

  • Breathing movements

  • Body movements

  • Muscle tone

  • Amniotic fluid level

  • Heart rate

Your provider may order a BPP if additional monitoring is needed later in pregnancy.

See also: Biophysical Profile (BPP) Guide

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular "practice contractions" that help prepare the uterus for labor.

Unlike true labor, they:

  • Usually aren't regular

  • Don't become stronger over time

  • Often improve with hydration or rest

If contractions become regular, painful, or occur before 37 weeks, contact your healthcare provider.

Breech

A breech baby is positioned with the feet or buttocks pointing toward the birth canal instead of the head.

It's common for twins to change positions throughout pregnancy. Many babies remain breech until late in the third trimester.


C


Cervical Cerclage

A cervical cerclage is a procedure in which a strong stitch is placed around the cervix to help keep it closed during pregnancy.

It may be recommended if the cervix begins shortening or opening too early, increasing the risk of preterm birth.

Not everyone carrying twins needs a cerclage. Your provider will determine whether it's appropriate based on your medical history and cervical length measurements.

Cervical Insufficiency

Cervical insufficiency occurs when the cervix begins opening too early without contractions.

This condition can increase the risk of pregnancy loss or preterm birth.

Your provider may monitor cervical length with ultrasound and discuss treatment options if cervical insufficiency is suspected.

Cervical Length

Cervical length measures how long the cervix is during pregnancy.

A transvaginal ultrasound provides the most accurate measurement.

A shorter cervix can increase the risk of preterm birth, so cervical length may be monitored more closely during some twin pregnancies.

Cervix

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.

Throughout pregnancy, the cervix stays closed to help keep the babies safely inside the uterus. During labor, it gradually softens, shortens, and opens (dilates) to allow delivery.

Chorionicity

Chorionicity refers to the number of placentas in a twin pregnancy.

Your provider determines chorionicity early in pregnancy because it helps guide your prenatal care and monitoring schedule.

Twins may have:

  • One shared placenta

  • Two separate placentas

Knowing this is one of the most important parts of managing a twin pregnancy.

Contractions

Contractions are tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles.

Some contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, especially Braxton Hicks contractions later in pregnancy.

Regular, painful, or frequent contractions before 37 weeks may be a sign of preterm labor and should be evaluated promptly.

Crown-Rump Length (CRL)

Crown-rump length (CRL) measures the distance from the top of a baby's head to the bottom of the torso during early pregnancy.

It's one of the most accurate ways to estimate gestational age and establish a due date during the first trimester.


D


Delivery Presentation

Presentation describes the position of each baby before birth.

Common presentations include:

  • Vertex (head down)

  • Breech (feet or bottom first)

  • Transverse (lying sideways)

The position of Baby A is especially important when discussing delivery options.

Di/Di Twins (Dichorionic Diamniotic)

Di/Di twins have:

  • Two placentas

  • Two amniotic sacs

This is the most common type of twin pregnancy and generally carries the lowest risk among twin pregnancies.

Both fraternal twins and some identical twins are Di/Di.

Doppler Ultrasound

A Doppler ultrasound measures blood flow through blood vessels, including the umbilical cord.

Providers may use Doppler studies to evaluate how well blood and oxygen are reaching the babies, particularly if there are concerns about growth or placental function.


E


Estimated Fetal Weight (EFW)

Estimated Fetal Weight (EFW) is your provider's best estimate of how much each baby weighs before birth.

EFW is calculated using ultrasound measurements such as:

  • Head circumference

  • Abdominal circumference

  • Femur length

Because it's an estimate, babies may weigh somewhat more or less than predicted after delivery.


F


Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)

Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) occurs when one or both babies are not growing as expected.

Your provider may recommend additional ultrasounds, Doppler studies, or fetal monitoring if FGR is suspected.

FGR is the preferred modern medical term. You may still hear the older term Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR).

Fetal Monitoring

Fetal monitoring refers to tests that evaluate your babies' well-being before birth.

Common forms of fetal monitoring include:

  • Nonstress Tests (NSTs)

  • Biophysical Profiles (BPPs)

  • Growth ultrasounds

  • Doppler ultrasounds

Twin pregnancies often involve more frequent fetal monitoring than singleton pregnancies.

Fetal Movement

Fetal movement includes your babies' kicks, rolls, stretches, and hiccups.

As pregnancy progresses, becoming familiar with your babies' normal movement patterns can help you recognize changes that should be reported to your healthcare provider.

Fraternal Twins

Fraternal twins develop when two separate eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm.

They are genetically similar to ordinary siblings and may be the same sex or different sexes.

Fraternal twins always have separate amniotic sacs and almost always have separate placentas, although placentas can occasionally grow close together and appear fused on delivery.


G


Gestational Age

Gestational age is how far along your pregnancy is, measured in weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) rather than the day of conception.

For example, when you're 20 weeks pregnant, your babies have been developing for approximately 18 weeks. Healthcare providers use gestational age to schedule ultrasounds, prenatal testing, and monitor fetal development.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy when the body has difficulty regulating blood sugar levels.

Most pregnant women are screened between 24 and 28 weeks, although some people may be tested earlier if they have additional risk factors.

Gestational diabetes can often be managed with healthy eating, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and sometimes medication or insulin. Good blood sugar control helps reduce risks for both you and your babies.

See also: Twin Pregnancy Weight Gain Guide

Group B Streptococcus (GBS)

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common type of bacteria that many healthy adults naturally carry.

Most pregnant women are tested for GBS between 35 and 37 weeks. If you're positive, you'll typically receive antibiotics during labor to reduce the risk of passing the bacteria to your babies during delivery.

Being GBS positive does not mean you're sick or that your babies are infected.

Growth Discordance

Growth discordance is the difference in size between twins.

A small difference is completely normal, but a larger difference may indicate that one baby isn't growing as expected. Your provider monitors this closely during growth ultrasounds by comparing each baby's estimated fetal weight.

If growth discordance becomes significant, you may need more frequent ultrasounds or additional fetal monitoring.

See also: Growth Scans During a Twin Pregnancy

Growth Scan

A growth scan is an ultrasound performed throughout pregnancy to measure each baby's growth and compare it to previous ultrasounds.

Your provider measures:

  • Head circumference

  • Abdominal circumference

  • Femur length

  • Estimated fetal weight

  • Amniotic fluid

These ultrasounds help ensure both babies continue growing appropriately.

See also: Twin Pregnancy Ultrasounds Guide


H


High-Risk Pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy is one that requires closer monitoring because there is an increased chance of complications affecting the mother, babies, or both.

Most twin pregnancies are considered high risk simply because carrying two babies increases the likelihood of conditions such as preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia.

Being high risk doesn't automatically mean something is wrong. It simply means your healthcare team will monitor your pregnancy more closely.


I


Identical Twins

Identical twins develop when one fertilized egg splits into two embryos.

Depending on when the egg divides, identical twins may share a placenta, an amniotic sac, both, or neither.

Because some identical twins share a placenta, they require closer monitoring than fraternal twins.

Incompetent Cervix

Incompetent cervix is an older term for cervical insufficiency.

Today, most healthcare providers use the term cervical insufficiency, which describes a cervix that begins opening too early without contractions.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

IUGR is an older term that has largely been replaced by Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR).

You may still hear both terms used interchangeably, especially when reading older resources or discussing pregnancy complications.


L


Labor

Labor is the process your body goes through to deliver your babies.

True labor causes regular contractions that become stronger, longer, and closer together while gradually opening the cervix.

Because twins have a higher risk of preterm birth, it's important to contact your healthcare provider if you think labor has started before 37 weeks.

Low-Lying Placenta

A low-lying placenta is attached near, but not covering, the cervix.

Many low-lying placentas move upward as the uterus grows during pregnancy. Your provider will monitor its location with follow-up ultrasounds.


M


Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM)

A Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) physician is an obstetrician with advanced training in caring for high-risk pregnancies.

Many twin pregnancies include care from both a regular OB and an MFM specialist. The MFM often performs detailed ultrasounds and helps manage pregnancies with increased risks or complications.

See also: What Is a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) Doctor?

Monochorionic Twins

Monochorionic twins share one placenta.

These pregnancies require more frequent ultrasounds because they have a higher risk of complications such as Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).

Mono/Di Twins (Monochorionic Diamniotic)

Mono/Di twins share one placenta but each baby has their own amniotic sac.

This is the most common type of identical twin pregnancy.

Because the babies share a placenta, ultrasounds are typically performed every two weeks beginning around 16 weeks to monitor for TTTS and other complications.

Mono/Mono Twins (Monochorionic Monoamniotic)

Mono/Mono twins share both one placenta and one amniotic sac.

This is the rarest type of twin pregnancy and requires extremely close monitoring because the umbilical cords can become tangled.

Many Mono/Mono pregnancies involve hospitalization later in pregnancy so the babies can be monitored closely until delivery.

Morning Sickness

Morning sickness refers to nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Despite the name, it can happen at any time of day.

Parents expecting twins often experience more significant nausea during the first trimester because pregnancy hormone levels tend to be higher.

Mucus Plug

The mucus plug is a thick collection of mucus that seals the cervix during pregnancy.

As the cervix begins preparing for labor, the mucus plug may come out in one piece or gradually over several days.

Losing your mucus plug does not necessarily mean labor will begin immediately.

Multiples

"Multiples" is a general term used to describe pregnancies involving more than one baby, including twins, triplets, quadruplets, and higher-order multiples.


N


Neonatologist

A neonatologist is a pediatrician with specialized training in caring for newborns who are premature, critically ill, or have complex medical needs.

If your twins are born early or need extra support after birth, a neonatologist may become part of their healthcare team.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

The NICU is a specialized hospital unit that cares for newborns who need additional medical attention.

Many twins never require a NICU stay, but because twins are more likely to be born prematurely, they're more likely than singletons to spend time there if they need help with breathing, feeding, temperature regulation, or growth.

See also: NICU Terms Every Parent Should Know

Noninvasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

NIPT is a blood test that analyzes small pieces of fetal DNA circulating in the mother's bloodstream.

The test estimates the chance of certain chromosome conditions, including Down syndrome, but it is a screening test, not a diagnostic test.

Results that suggest an increased chance of a condition often require additional testing for confirmation.

See also: NIPT Testing in Twin Pregnancy

Nonstress Test (NST)

A Nonstress Test (NST) monitors your babies' heart rates and movements during pregnancy.

Small monitors are placed on your abdomen to measure each baby's heartbeat while checking whether their heart rates increase appropriately with movement.

NSTs are commonly performed during the third trimester, especially in twin pregnancies.

See also: Nonstress Test (NST) Guide

Nuchal Translucency (NT)

The nuchal translucency (NT) scan is a first-trimester ultrasound performed between approximately 11 and 14 weeks.

It measures the fluid behind a baby's neck and may be combined with blood work to estimate the chance of certain chromosome conditions.


P


Placenta

The placenta is the organ that supplies oxygen and nutrients to your babies throughout pregnancy while removing waste products.

Depending on the type of twins, each baby may have their own placenta or the babies may share one placenta.

Placenta Previa

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix.

This condition can cause bleeding during pregnancy and may require a cesarean delivery if it doesn't resolve before birth.

Many cases diagnosed early improve as the uterus grows.

Placental Abruption

A placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before delivery.

Symptoms may include:

  • Vaginal bleeding

  • Abdominal pain

  • Back pain

  • Frequent contractions

Placental abruption is a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation.

Polyhydramnios

Polyhydramnios means there is too much amniotic fluid around one or both babies.

It can develop for many different reasons and sometimes occurs in pregnancies complicated by Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).

Your healthcare provider will monitor the pregnancy closely if polyhydramnios develops.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that usually develops after 20 weeks and is characterized by high blood pressure along with signs that organs, such as the kidneys or liver, may be affected.

Symptoms may include:

  • Severe headaches

  • Vision changes

  • Swelling of the face or hands

  • Upper right abdominal pain

  • Sudden weight gain

  • Shortness of breath

Twin pregnancies have a higher risk of preeclampsia than singleton pregnancies.

If you experience symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Pregnancy Brain

Pregnancy brain is the common term for forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating during pregnancy.

Although researchers are still studying exactly why it happens, hormonal changes, stress, fatigue, and poor sleep likely all contribute.

Keeping notes on your phone or using reminders can help you stay organized.

Preterm Labor

Preterm labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Warning signs include:

  • Regular contractions

  • Pelvic pressure

  • Low back pain

  • Vaginal bleeding

  • Fluid leaking from the vagina

Because twins have a higher risk of preterm birth, it's important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience possible signs of labor.

See also: Early Signs of Preterm Labor With Twins

Preterm Birth

A preterm birth occurs when babies are born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy.

Twins are significantly more likely to be born prematurely than singleton babies, although many go on to do very well with appropriate medical care.

Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)

PPROM occurs when the amniotic sac breaks before 37 weeks and before labor begins.

Many people describe this as their "water breaking."

PPROM requires prompt medical evaluation because it increases the risk of infection and preterm birth.

Presentation

Presentation describes which part of the baby is closest to the birth canal.

Common presentations include:

  • Vertex (head down)

  • Breech (feet or bottom first)

  • Transverse (sideways)

Your provider will discuss how each baby's presentation affects delivery planning.


R


Reactive NST

A reactive NST means your baby's heart rate responded normally during the Nonstress Test.

This is generally considered a reassuring result and suggests your baby is receiving enough oxygen.

Round Ligament Pain

Round ligament pain is a common cause of sharp or pulling pain in the lower abdomen or groin during pregnancy.

As the uterus grows, the round ligaments stretch to support it.

The pain often occurs with:

  • Standing up quickly

  • Rolling over in bed

  • Coughing

  • Sneezing

  • Sudden movements

Although uncomfortable, round ligament pain is usually a normal part of pregnancy.


S


Selective Fetal Growth Restriction (sFGR)

Selective Fetal Growth Restriction (sFGR) occurs when one twin is significantly smaller than the other because of unequal placental function.

This condition most commonly affects identical twins who share one placenta.

Pregnancies complicated by sFGR require close monitoring with frequent ultrasounds and Doppler studies.

Singleton Pregnancy

A singleton pregnancy is a pregnancy with one baby.

Healthcare providers often compare recommendations for singleton and twin pregnancies because twins typically require more frequent monitoring.

Spontaneous Labor

Spontaneous labor is labor that begins naturally without medications or medical procedures to start contractions.

Some twin pregnancies go into spontaneous labor, while others require induction or a planned cesarean delivery based on the health of the mother or babies.

Subchorionic Hematoma

A subchorionic hematoma is a collection of blood that forms between the uterine wall and the pregnancy membranes.

It may cause light or heavy vaginal bleeding, especially during the first trimester.

Many subchorionic hematomas resolve on their own, but your provider may recommend follow-up ultrasounds to monitor the pregnancy.


T


TAPS (Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence)

Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) is a rare complication that can occur in identical twins who share one placenta.

Tiny blood vessel connections within the shared placenta cause one baby to become anemic (low red blood cell count) while the other develops too many red blood cells.

Unlike Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), TAPS often develops without large differences in amniotic fluid levels. Your healthcare team may detect it using specialized Doppler ultrasounds.

Transverse Lie

A transverse lie means a baby is lying sideways across the uterus instead of head down or breech.

Babies frequently change positions during pregnancy, but if Baby A remains transverse near delivery, a cesarean birth is usually recommended.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound uses a small ultrasound probe placed into the vagina to obtain detailed images of the uterus, cervix, and early pregnancy.

This type of ultrasound is commonly used:

  • Early in pregnancy

  • To measure cervical length

  • To evaluate the placenta

  • When additional detail is needed

Although it may feel uncomfortable, it is generally not painful and is considered safe during pregnancy.

Trial of Labor

A trial of labor means attempting a vaginal birth when it is considered medically appropriate.

For twin pregnancies, whether a trial of labor is recommended depends on several factors, including:

  • Baby A's position

  • Gestational age

  • Estimated fetal weights

  • Your medical history

  • Your provider's experience with twin deliveries

Not every twin pregnancy is a candidate for a trial of labor.

Trimester

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters:

First Trimester
Weeks 1–13

Second Trimester
Weeks 14–27

Third Trimester
Weeks 28 until delivery

Each trimester brings different developmental milestones, symptoms, and prenatal testing.

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is a condition that only occurs in identical twins who share one placenta.

Abnormal blood vessel connections within the placenta allow blood to flow unevenly between the babies.

One baby (the donor twin) may receive too little blood, while the other (the recipient twin) receives too much.

TTTS requires close monitoring and, in some cases, specialized fetal surgery.

Early detection through regular ultrasounds greatly improves outcomes.

TRAP Sequence (Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion Sequence)

Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion (TRAP) Sequence is an extremely rare complication affecting identical twins who share one placenta.

One baby develops normally (the "pump twin") while the other does not develop a functioning heart and relies on blood flow from the healthy twin.

Because this places extra strain on the healthy baby's heart, pregnancies affected by TRAP require management by a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist.


U


Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cord connects each baby to the placenta.

It delivers oxygen and nutrients while carrying waste products away from the baby.

Each baby has their own umbilical cord, even if they share a placenta.

Umbilical Cord Doppler

An umbilical cord Doppler is a specialized ultrasound that measures blood flow through the umbilical cord.

Providers often perform Doppler studies when monitoring:

  • Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)

  • Growth discordance

  • Placental function

  • Twin-specific complications

These measurements help determine how well blood and oxygen are reaching each baby.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of your babies during pregnancy.

Twin pregnancies typically involve more ultrasounds than singleton pregnancies because providers closely monitor growth, amniotic fluid, placentas, and fetal well-being.


V


Variable Decelerations

Variable decelerations are temporary drops in a baby's heart rate that may occur during labor.

They are often caused by brief compression of the umbilical cord.

Some variable decelerations are common and not concerning, while others may require closer monitoring or intervention.

Vertex

Vertex means a baby is positioned head down, which is generally the preferred position for a vaginal birth.

The position of Baby A is especially important when discussing delivery options for twins.

Viability

Viability refers to the stage of pregnancy when a baby has the potential to survive outside the uterus with intensive medical care.

While advances in neonatal medicine continue to improve outcomes, the chance of survival generally increases with each additional week of pregnancy.

Your healthcare team can discuss what viability means based on your individual pregnancy and gestational age.


W


Weight Discordance

Weight discordance refers to the percentage difference in estimated weight between twins.

A mild difference is common, but a larger difference may suggest one baby isn't growing as expected.

Providers monitor weight discordance during growth scans throughout pregnancy.


Common Twin Pregnancy Abbreviations

During your twin pregnancy, you'll likely see abbreviations in ultrasound reports, online support groups, and conversations with your healthcare team. Here's a quick reference guide to some of the most common terms.

  • BPP – Biophysical Profile

  • CRL – Crown-Rump Length

  • Di/Di – Dichorionic Diamniotic

  • EFW – Estimated Fetal Weight

  • FGR – Fetal Growth Restriction

  • GBS – Group B Streptococcus

  • GDM – Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

  • IUGR – Intrauterine Growth Restriction (older term for Fetal Growth Restriction)

  • MFM – Maternal-Fetal Medicine

  • Mo/Di – Monochorionic Diamniotic

  • Mo/Mo – Monochorionic Monoamniotic

  • NICU – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

  • NIPT – Noninvasive Prenatal Testing

  • NST – Nonstress Test

  • NT – Nuchal Translucency

  • PPROM – Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

  • sFGR – Selective Fetal Growth Restriction

  • TAPS – Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence

  • TRAP – Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion Sequence

  • TTTS – Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome



Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there so many medical terms during a twin pregnancy?

Twin pregnancies require more frequent monitoring than singleton pregnancies. As a result, you'll hear additional terms related to ultrasounds, fetal growth, prenatal testing, and pregnancy complications.

Do I need to memorize all of these terms?

Not at all.

Your healthcare team will explain unfamiliar terms during your appointments, and you can always return to this glossary whenever you need a refresher.

What's the difference between identical and fraternal twins?

Identical twins develop when one fertilized egg splits into two embryos.

Fraternal twins develop from two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm.

The type of twins affects how your pregnancy is monitored.

Why is chorionicity so important?

Knowing whether your twins share a placenta helps determine how often you'll need ultrasounds and which pregnancy complications your provider will monitor for.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

  • Vaginal bleeding

  • Fluid leaking from the vagina

  • Regular contractions before 37 weeks

  • Severe headaches

  • Vision changes

  • Decreased fetal movement

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Any symptom that concerns you

When in doubt, it's always appropriate to call.


References

  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Multiple Pregnancy, Routine Tests During Pregnancy, Ultrasound Exams, and patient education resources.

  • Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). Patient Education and guidance on high-risk pregnancies and multiple gestations.

  • International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG). Practice Guidelines for Twin Pregnancy and Obstetric Ultrasound.

  • American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM). Practice Parameters for Obstetric Ultrasound.

  • March of Dimes. Pregnancy and Multiple Birth Resources.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your OB, maternal-fetal medicine specialist, or another qualified healthcare professional with questions about your pregnancy, test results, or any concerning symptoms.




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Twin Pregnancy Ultrasounds: What to Expect Throughout Your Pregnancy