Outcomes of Triplets Reduced to Twins Versus Non-Reduced Triplet Pregnancies

Abstract

Background: This study examined the outcomes of triplet pregnancies selectively reduced to twin pregnancies, compared with non-reduced triplet pregnancies using a standardized approach.

Methods: This study is an observational retrospective study of all women who presented to the Fetal Diagnostic Center between 1999 and 2009, had triplet pregnancies in the first trimester, received prenatal care and delivered at Abington Memorial Hospital. Data analysis was performed with SPPS version 15 for Windows using analysis of variance and Fishers exact test.

Results: One hundred thirty-two triplet pregnancies were identified. In the reduced group (n = 30) compared to the non-reduced triplet group (n = 102), average gestational age of delivery was longer 34.6 weeks versus 31.2 weeks gestation (P <= 0.0005) and days in hospital were less 9.0 versus 26.7 days (P = 0.001). There was a significantly lower incidence of gestational diabetes and preterm labor in reduced pregnancies. Rate of loss, defined as delivery less than 24 weeks, was similar (3.3% versus 4.9%).

Conclusion: Women electing to reduce a triplet pregnancy to twins have higher gestational ages at delivery, lower rates of gestational diabetes and preterm labor, and spend fewer days in hospital than non-reduced triplet pregnancies.




J Clin Gynecol Obstet. 2015;4(1):160-163
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jcgo322w

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