For many women, having twins is natural.by way without any complications. However, the risk of pregnancy ending by caesarean section increases with the number of fetuses. At the same time, the probability of complications during pregnancy and childbirth also increases. This, of course, does not mean that the birth of twins or triplets must necessarily end unfavorably, but during pregnancy and childbirth, more careful monitoring of the condition of both the mother and the fetuses is necessary. In case of multiple pregnancies, weakness of labor contractions develops more often in the first period of labor than in case of a singleton. After the birth of the first child, contractions stop for some time, since the volume of the uterus decreases by half and it takes some time for it to acquire the tone necessary for contraction. During this time, the doctor constantly monitors the heart rate of the second fetus. Then its amniotic sac is opened, after which the child is born quite quickly, even with a breech presentation. This is understandable - the birth canal has already been prepared (expanded) by the birth of the first child and, in addition, children in multiple pregnancies usually have a small weight and body size. In multiple pregnancies, the children often suffer from intrauterine hypertrophy and hypoxia. The second fetus is especially often born in a state of hypoxia. It is usually recommended that an anesthesiologist be present during the birth of twins in case a caesarean section becomes necessary, although most twins can be delivered vaginally (sometimes with forceps to protect them from excessive bruising). A pediatrician or neonatologist should also be on hand to provide assistance if needed. In the case of twins, one should always be prepared for the unexpected that may arise during labor. It may happen that when the first child is delivered vaginally, the second, lying transversely and unable to be turned, will have to be assisted by caesarean section. It is also possible that, although the amniotic fluid comes out on its own during the birth of the first child, the fetal membranes may have to be ruptured artificially. In most cases, the second child is born after the first. If this second one is born slowly, the doctor may recommend oxytocin or forceps or a partial cesarean section. After the baby is born, the placenta usually comes out quickly. However, sometimes it happens so slowly that the doctor's help may be needed. We recommend reading: