Twenty-six triplet pregnancies: a retrospective analysis

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2009 Apr;279(4):455-61. doi: 10.1007/s00404-009-0929-z. Epub 2009 Jan 17.

Abstract

Methods: Twenty-six triplet pregnancies were delivered over 6 years.

Results: Over 80% of pregnancies resulted after infertility treatment (21/26). Mean maternal age was 32. On average, the infants were delivered after 32 + 0 weeks; in 4 cases delivery was at <28 weeks. In 1 case, the leading triplet was delivered spontaneously, the remaining babies by Caesarean. Main indications for Caesarean were: premature membrane rupture, premature contractions, maternal hospitalisation for foetal lung maturation/tocolysis/antibiotics. Mean birth weights were (triplet I-III): 1,730, 1,630 and 1,550 g. Hydrops fetalis and renal agenesis resulted in IUFD of the leading triplet in two cases. All newborns were cared for by neonatology.

Conclusions: Triplet pregnancies are challenging for all specialities involved. They should be managed from an early stage in cooperation with an experienced centre, allowing outpatient care for as long as possible if there are no complications. This also has a cost-reducing impact.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section
  • Delivery, Obstetric*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / therapy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Triplets*