Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation and for parents expecting twins, the joy is doubled. But what if one twin isn’t growing at the same rate as the other? Twin growth discordance can be a concern, but with expert monitoring, it can be managed effectively. At Precious Clinic, Dr. Tejas Tamhane, a renowned fetal medicine specialist, offers comprehensive diagnosis and care for twin growth discordance in Pune, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both babies.
Monitoring Twin Growth Discordance In Pune: An Overview
To put it simply, twin growth discordance occurs when the two babies’ sizes differ significantly. This is typically defined by doctors as a discrepancy in estimated foetal weight of greater than 15-20%. Although some development variance is normal, significant variations could indicate a problem that needs to be investigated.
Why Does One Twin Grow Slower?
There is not a single definitive reason why twin growth discordance happens, but a few common reasons include:
- Unequal Placental Sharing – Identical (monochorionic) twins may share a placenta, but not always equally. If one twin gets less blood, oxygen and nutrients, then their growth can slow down.
- TTTS – When the blood flow between twins is unbalanced, one twin receives too much blood and the other too little, a condition known as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).
- Placental Insufficiency: One baby’s placenta may not work as effectively as the other, which can sometimes impede the baby’s growth.
- Chromosomal or Genetic Differences: One twin may occasionally have a genetic disorder that impairs growth.
- Maternal Health Issues: Each twin’s development may also be impacted by the mother’s diabetes, high blood pressure, or other illnesses.
How Is It Monitored?
If your doctor suspects the risk of growth discordance, you will be asked to have frequent ultrasounds to measure each twin’s growth, blood flow and amniotic fluid levels. Doppler Studies can help check how well blood is reaching each baby and sometimes, additional tests such as fetal NST monitoring or MRI may also be advised if there are any other concerns.
(Also Read: Managing Placental Abruption In Pune – Dr Tejas Tamhane)
What Can Be Done?
The following approach is suggested, depending on the level of discordance:
- Careful Monitoring: If there is little difference, your doctor will closely monitor both babies to make sure they are still growing.
- Diet and Sleep: Eating a healthier diet and getting more sleep can sometimes increase the amount of blood that reaches the placenta.
- Early Delivery: If the small twin is having serious difficulties, an early delivery may be required. The time is influenced by the health of both infants, blood supply and the gestational age.
- Fetal Interventions: Laser therapy is one specific method that may be necessary in cases of severe TTTS or selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR).
Monitoring Twin Growth Discordance In Pune – Consult Dr Tejas Tamhane
Finding out that one of your twins isn’t developing properly can be upsetting. Remember, though, that medical advancements have come a long way. With early identification, close monitoring and expert care, many twins with developmental discordance become healthy, happy babies.
For monitoring twin growth discordance in Pune, reach out to Dr Tejas Tamhane, the best fetal medicine specialist in Pune. You can consult him at Precious Clinic for Advanced Fetal Medicine.
