What are the risks of carrying twins?
Nov 15, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Carrying twins involves higher risks compared to singleton pregnancies, with potential complications including gestational hypertension, preterm birth, fetal growth discordance, anemia, and abnormal amniotic fluid levels. The physical burden on the pregnant woman increases significantly when carrying twins, leading to greater vascular pressure and a higher likelihood of developing gestational hypertension. Such conditions may cause dizziness and edema in the mother and could also impair blood supply to the placenta.
Compared to singleton pregnancies, twin pregnancies carry increased risks, including gestational hypertension, preterm birth, fetal growth discordance, anemia, and abnormal amniotic fluid levels. The specific risks are analyzed as follows:
1. Gestational Hypertension: In twin pregnancies, the maternal physical burden is greater and vascular pressure increases, making gestational hypertension more likely. This condition may cause dizziness and edema in the mother, and could also impair placental blood supply, negatively affecting fetal growth and development.
2. Preterm Birth: Due to relatively limited space for fetal growth in the uterus and potential earlier decline in placental function, the risk of preterm birth in twin pregnancies is significantly higher than in singleton pregnancies. Preterm infants may face multiple system immaturities, such as respiratory and digestive problems, requiring specialized care.
3. Fetal Growth Discordance: In twins, unequal nutrient distribution from the placenta may lead to one fetus growing faster while the other grows more slowly. The slower-growing fetus may suffer from inadequate nutrition and delayed organ development, necessitating close monitoring.
4. Anemia: The demand for nutrients such as iron and folic acid increases substantially in twin pregnancies. If maternal intake is insufficient, anemia can easily develop. Anemia may cause fatigue and palpitations in the mother and reduce oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetuses, impairing their development.
5. Abnormal Amniotic Fluid Levels: Some twin pregnancies may experience polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid). Polyhydramnios can cause abdominal distension and breathing difficulties in the mother, while oligohydramnios may restrict fetal movement and impair lung development.
For twin pregnancies, prenatal checkups should be more frequent to closely monitor maternal blood pressure, blood glucose, and fetal growth. A balanced diet with adequate supplementation of iron, folic acid, and other essential nutrients is important. Any abnormal symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention, and professional guidance should be followed for timely intervention.
