Comparison of Perinatal Outcomes of Twin Births Conceived Using Assisted Reproduction Technology versus Spontaneous

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Pregnancy, neonatal and fetal complications are higher in twin than singleton pregnancy. Considering use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and twin births is increased, the aim of this study was to compare the complications in spontaneous vs. assisted conception twin pregnancies for recognition of high risk mothers and prevention and treatment of them as soon as possible.METHODS: This analytical study was performed on 40 assisted conception twin pregnancies and 80 pregnant women with spontaneous twin pregnancies. Two groups were matched for age. Maternal morbidity (preeclampsia, preterm delivery) and neonatal complications (Intra uterine growth restriction and low birth weight) were recorded and compared.FINDINGS: Mean gestational age in spontaneous pregnancy was 34.4±3.2 weeks and in ART pregnancy was 33.7±2.1 weeks that showed no significant difference. Gestational diabetes was in 13 versus 8 cases (p=0.004), intrauterine growth restriction in 3 cases versus 0 (p=0.035) and transfer to neonatal intensive care unit 30 cases versus 26 (p=0.000) in ART pregnancy and spontaneous, respectively. Birth weight in ART pregnancy was significantly lower than spontaneous group (p=0.002, 0.004). Premature rupture of membrane, preeclampsia, placental events, intrauterine fetal death and gestational age had not significant difference between two groups. CONCLUSION: Because some of maternal and fetal morbidity in twin pregnancies was higher in assisted conceptions than spontaneous conception, these patients need closer prenatal care