Why is the USG Twins Growth & Doppler Important?
1.Monitoring Fetal Growth: Twins are at a higher risk of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), where one or both babies may not grow at the expected rate. The growth scan assesses the biometric measurements (such as head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length) to monitor each baby’s development and detect any growth discrepancies between them.
2. Assessing Blood Flow and Placental Health: The Doppler component of the scan evaluates blood flow in the umbilical arteries, middle cerebral arteries, and uterine arteries. This helps in detecting any issues with placental insufficiency, where the placenta might not be providing enough nutrients and oxygen to the babies, affecting their growth.
3. Identifying Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS): In cases of monochorionic twins (twins sharing the same placenta), there is a risk of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). This condition occurs when blood flow between the twins is imbalanced, leading to one twin receiving more blood and the other less. Doppler ultrasound helps identify signs of TTTS early, allowing for timely intervention.
4. Evaluating Amniotic Fluid Levels: The scan also assesses amniotic fluid levels around each twin, which can indicate problems like polyhydramnios (excess fluid) or oligohydramnios (low fluid). Imbalanced fluid levels may signal complications and require closer monitoring or intervention.
5. Planning for Delivery: As the pregnancy progresses, the USG Twins Growth & Doppler scan provides essential information for planning the timing and mode of delivery. It helps determine whether a vaginal delivery is safe or if a cesarean section might be necessary, based on the babies' positions, sizes, and overall health.
Who Should Consider a USG Twins Growth & Doppler Scan?
1. Women with Multiple Pregnancies: This scan is essential for those carrying twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples, as it provides detailed information about each fetus's growth and overall health.
2. Women with a History of Pregnancy Complications: If you have had previous complications, such as preterm labor, IUGR, or placental insufficiency, this scan can help monitor the pregnancy closely and detect issues early.
3. Women with Monochorionic Twins: For women carrying monochorionic twins (twins sharing a placenta), this scan is crucial for early detection of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).
4. Women with Concerns about Fetal Growth or Placental Function:If there are concerns about unequal growth between the twins or signs of placental dysfunction, this scan provides valuable insights into the cause and helps guide further treatment.
