Epidemiology and biology of multiple gestations

Clin Perinatol. 2005 Jun;32(2):301-14, v. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2005.04.002.

Abstract

Twins have always aroused interest and have been represented throughout history. Conjoined twins have caused even more sensation, the best-known pair being Chang and Eng Bunker, who were born in Thailand in 1811 and inspired the term Siamese twins. Recently, higher-order multiples have caused controversy, and there has been heavy media coverage of large-number deliveries, such as the McCaughey septuplets. In this article, we review the incidence, types, and causes of multiple gestations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy, Multiple / physiology*
  • Pregnancy, Multiple / statistics & numerical data*
  • Twins / physiology