Retrospective analysis of multiple gestation in the Regional University Hospital of Maringá (HURM) between January 2000 and July 2003

Abstract

Multiple gestation was one of the most challenges for obstetric medicine, because they usually have more maternal complications and perinatal morbidity and mortality than singletons. The aim of this study is to analyze and to compare the obstetrics and neonatal complications in twins versus singletons in the Regional University Hospital of Maringá between January 2000 and July 2003. The sample studied was composed of 50 multiple gestations and 2229 single gestations. The incidence of twins was 1/50 and the triplets was 1/1250. The occurrence of preterm labor, rupture premature of membranes and gestational diabetes mellitus were significantly higher in twins than singletons. The main complication of multiple pregnancies was preterm delivery which resulted in low and very low birthweight, respiratory distress syndrome, metabolic disorders, infections and neonatal hypoxia in that group. There were three cases of stillbirth and other three cases of neonatal death in 50 multiple gestations. To sum up, multiple gestations have increased risks of obstetrics complications and unfavorable perinatal outcomes