Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Quiz

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a rare condition that only occurs in pregnancies with identical twins where they share a placenta. The placenta is the organ that provides blood supply from the mom to both babies. In TTTS, there is unequal blood supply with one twin getting more blood than the other. One twin, the donor twin, gives away more blood than it receives, leading to a risk of malnourishment, poor growth and organ failure. The other twin (recipient) receives too much blood, which can cause the heart to be overworked and lead to other cardiac complications. In this condition both twins are at risk for stillbirth and poor outcome, and these pregnancies are considered high risk.

• Diagnosis of Monochorionic twins

• Diagnosed with multiple pregnancy (twins or more)

• Rapid increase in abdominal circumference (waist size)

• Feel my child is moving less. (Decreased fetal movements)

• Currently pregnant

• Stomach feels constantly hard and stiff like a board

• Feeling contractions very frequently

• Increased vaginal discharge that is smelly

In twin pregnancies that share a placenta, ultrasound examinations are frequently done to monitor for this condition. These pregnancies need a lot of monitoring and specialist care. If TTTS is detected, fetal laser therapy may be considered to divide the blood supply between the twins.