What is Conjoined Twin Pregnancy?
Conjoined twin pregnancy is a rare medical condition where two babies are physically connected to each other at birth. The condition occurs when the fertilized egg fails to fully separate into two embryos during early development, resulting in the twins sharing the same body parts and organs. Conjoined twins are also known as Siamese twins, a term derived from the famous conjoined twins Chang and Eng Bunker from Siam (now Thailand) who lived in the 19th century.
Types of Conjoined Twin Pregnancy
There are several types of conjoined twin pregnancy, depending on the area of attachment between the twins. The most common types include:
- Thoracopagus: Twins are joined at the chest, sharing the same heart and lungs.
- Omphalopagus: Twins are joined at the abdomen, sharing the same liver.
- Craniopagus: Twins are joined at the head, and may share parts of the brain and skull.
Other types of conjoined twin pregnancy include ischiopagus, pygopagus, and parapagus.
Symptoms of Conjoined Twin Pregnancy
Conjoined twin pregnancy is usually detected during routine prenatal screening, such as ultrasound. The symptoms of conjoined twin pregnancy may vary depending on the type of attachment, but may include:
- Difficulty in movement
- Abnormal positioning of limbs
- Abnormal facial features
- Presence of two heartbeats
Treatment for Conjoined Twin Pregnancy
The treatment for conjoined twin pregnancy depends on the type and severity of the attachment, as well as the overall health of the twins. In some cases, the twins may be surgically separated, but this is a complex and risky procedure that may not always be possible. In other cases, the twins may be delivered via Cesarean section, and medical care may be provided to ensure their continued health and well-being.
In conclusion, conjoined twin pregnancy is a rare medical condition that requires specialized care and attention. If you suspect that you may be carrying conjoined twins, it is important to seek medical advice and support as early as possible to ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your babies.