[Course of twin pregnancies and labors in the 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw].

DESIGN: The aim of the study was to analyze the course of twin pregnancies and labors in the I Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Warsaw.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 124 cases of multiple pregnancy and labor that occurred in the I Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology within the period from 1994 to 2001 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS: The study revealed high risk of premature labor, premature rupture of the membranes (PROM), intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) in twin pregnancy. High incidence of cesarean sections was seen both in premature and at-term labors. Significant differences between the mean birth weight and Apgar score of I and II twin were observed. Differences in condition of the neonates were smaller in the group of twins born by cesarean section.

CONCLUSIONS: The higher incidence of both obstetrical complications and cesarean sections is associated with twin pregnancies. An increased obstetrical risk and lower Apgar score are observed in case of vaginal delivery of the second twin. Cesarean section seems to improve obstetric results and diminish the differences in condition between the neonates.