[Twin pregnancies and their outcome at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Mother and Child in Warsaw, in the period of 1993-2000].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyse the course of twin pregnancies delivered at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Mother and Child in Warsaw, from 1993 to 2000.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The medical documentation of women with twin pregnancy was looked into. Such parameters as mode of conception, maternal age and parity were taken into account. The data concerning the duration of pregnancy, mode of delivery, birth weight and condition of newly born infants were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

There a total of 232 (1.46%) twin pregnancies out of 15,869 births. A gradual increase in absolute number of twin deliveries and a relative increase of multiple pregnancies due to the use of assisted reproduction techniques was observed. The tendency to end twin pregnancies by caesarean section was detected. Although the perinatal care improved over the years, a small decrease of mean gestational age at delivery was observed. No significant difference in neonatal outcome in relation to the mode of delivery in researched material was noticed.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of twin pregnancies due to the use of assisted reproduction techniques is on the increase. A percentage of women delivering for the first time has risen among women with twin pregnancy. Twin pregnancies are often ended by caesarean section and the frequency of caesarean sections has increased over time.