Birth injuries can be particularly concerning for parents of twins. Knowing the unique risks and factors can help New York families, and will help them prepare for and respond to these challenges.
Common birth injuries in twins
Twins face specific risks during birth that can lead to injuries. Common injuries include:
- Cerebral palsy: This neurological disorder can result from oxygen deprivation during delivery.
- Brachial plexus injury: This is nerve damage that affects the arms and shoulders. It often happens due to difficult deliveries.
- Fractures: Broken bones, such as clavicle fractures, can occur due to the positioning of twins during birth.
Factors increasing risk
Several factors can heighten the risk of birth injuries in twins. Twins are often born prematurely, increasing the likelihood of complications. Cesarean sections can reduce some risks. But, hard vaginal deliveries may increase the chance of injury. Twin pregnancies can be more prone to breech positioning and other complications.
Recognizing and addressing symptoms
Early detection of birth injuries in twins is crucial for effective treatment. Parents should watch for potential signs of problems. For example, missing milestones can indicate issues such as cerebral palsy, signs of stiffness or weakness may suggest nerve or muscle injuries, and trouble with feeding can be a symptom of neurological issues.
Awareness for parents of twins is critical
New York parents can proactively protect their children from birth injuries through awareness. By knowing the risks of birth injuries specific to twins and what to look out for you can react quickly to get your children the support they need.
