Multiple Pregnancy: Genetic Disorders and Birth Defects
Topic Overview
Genetic disorders, such as Reference Down syndrome Opens New Window or Reference cystic fibrosis Opens New Window, and birth defects occur more frequently in multiple pregnancies than in pregnancies with one fetus. A group of deformities of the ankles and/or feet (clubfoot) is an example of a birth defect seen more commonly in multiple pregnancy.
Genetic disorders and birth defects occur more frequently in identical fetuses than in fraternal ones. In rare cases, problems occur when the genetic material (chromosomes) in the fertilized egg does not split evenly. This can result in severe mental or physical defects in one or more fetuses.
Conjoined (Siamese) twins occur rarely. This occurs when the egg does not split completely and the fetuses are partially joined.
Most doctors advise pregnant women to be screened for genetic disorders.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference July 8, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference William Gilbert, MD - Maternal and Fetal Medicine |
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