Twinning trends and types

Unit 1: Setting the scene - rates and reasons

Introduction to the rates of twinning in the UK and some of the reasons behind these rates. We will address the problems and risks associated with twin pregnancies, increased risk of premature birth and challenges adjusting to family life.

We will consider the trends in the numbers of twins in the United Kingdom and globally. There are a number of suggested factors that may contribute to the occurrence of twins, and these will be discussed.

Unit two: Causes of twinning - the impact of fertility treatment

We will explore how the use of medically assisted reproduction and the advent of in vitro fertilisation has affected the number of multiple pregnancies. We’ll learn about campaigns that were launched to help reduce the rate of twins and higher order multiple pregnancies.

We will explore how the use of fertility treatments have been a key contributory factor to the increase in multiple births. The campaign to reduce the number of twins and higher order multiples will be discussed. Some of the challenges in accessing fertility treatments will be identified.

Unit three: Types of twins - dizygotic and monozygotic twins

We’ll give an overview of zygosity and explain the difference between dizygotic and monozygotic twins.

We will provide an overview of zygosity and explain how monozygotic (identical) and dizygotic (non-identical) twins occur. Rare types of twins will also be discussed.

Unit four: The twin placenta, chorionicity and amnionicity

Introduction to the placenta, chorionicity and amnionicity and how this will influence the care provided during pregnancy.

This section explores further the different features of a twin pregnancy in relation to the number of placentas, outer sacs (chorionicity) and inner sacs (amnionicity). We will explain how these features help determine the care provided during pregnancy.

Unit five: Importance of determining zygosity

Understand how to determine zygosity and the medical, ethical and personal reasons why it is important to know.

‘Are the twins identical’ is a common question and the importance of this knowledge is explored. The medical, ethical and personal reasons for determining zygosity of twins will be discussed.

Unit six: Supporting multiple birth families

Professionals involved with multiple birth families need to recognise the specific challenges and care needs of the families. Here, we will transfer the knowledge gained in the course to your professional practice to determine the best care pathway during pregnancy. This will include what support should be provided and the challenges that may be faced by the families.