Incidence and Mode of Delivery of Twin Pregnancies in Uyo, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Twin pregnancy continues to be a focus of interest the world over due to its increasing incidence and also the high maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity associated with it.
Objective: To determine the incidence and mode of delivery of twin pregnancies at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo.
Methodology: A 5-year retrospective review of twin deliveries at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
Results: There were 6,344 deliveries out of which 164 were twin deliveries resulting in an incidence of 2.6%. The modal age group of the patients was 20-29 years (66.5%), majority (71.3%) of the patients were multiparous, 79.3% booked and had regular antenatal care in the hospital while 49.4% of the patients delivered at term. Eighty-four patients (51.2%) were delivered by caesarean section and malpresentation of the first twin
(18.2%) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (10.4%) were the most common indications. The perinatal mortality rate was 207/1000 and there was one maternal death which was from eclampsia.
Conclusion: The incidence of twin pregnancy and its attendant perinatal mortality is high in our center. In addition, caesarean section is the most common mode of delivery with malpresentation of the first twin and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as the most common indications. We advocate widespread public enlightenment on the increased risk associated
with twin pregnancy. Community leaders should ensure that women with twin pregnancy should book early and obtain antenatal care in specialized units.

Niger Med J. Vol. 51, No. 4,Oct. – Dec., 2010: 170 – 172.

Keywords: twin pregnancy, delivery, Nigeria