Multiple Gestation: Understanding Monozygotic and Dizygotic Twins

Multiple gestation occurs when a woman carries more than one fetus during pregnancy. This condition is classified into two primary types: Monozygotic (identical) and Dizygotic (fraternal) twins.

Types of Multiple Gestation

Monozygotic Twins

Monozygotic twins arise from a single fertilized egg that splits into two embryos. These twins share identical genetic material and are always of the same sex.

Dizygotic Twins

Dizygotic twins result from the fertilization of two separate eggs by two different sperm. They may or may not be of the same sex and are genetically distinct.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Genetics: Family history of twins increases the likelihood of dizygotic twin pregnancies.
• Maternal Age: Women over the age of 30 have a higher chance of conceiving multiples.
• Fertility Treatments: Assisted reproductive technologies significantly contribute to multiple gestations.

Management and Complications

Multiple pregnancies require specialized prenatal care to monitor fetal growth and detect complications such as preterm birth and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).