Multiple births - what are the risks?

The risks of multiple pregnancy and birth are not just confined to the serious risks to the health and long-term wellbeing of the child. Mothers themselves can be exposed to health problems as well as the increased risk of losing their babies.

Mothers pregnant with twins are more likely to experience health problems such as hypertension, pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes than mothers of singletons. They are also twice as likely to die during pregnancy or birth. More about the risks>>

At least half of all twins are born several weeks earlier than singleton babies and so they weigh less and are more likely to experience serious health problems. Twins are also up to six times more likely to die during birth or the first year of life than singletons. More about the risks>>