The Latest on Breech First Twin!

Posted by Brenda Lane Feb 22, 2007

An exciting new 2007 study may change the way doctors are now delivering twins when the first baby (Twin A) is in a breech position. For years, mothers have heard that their only safe option when the first baby is breech is to have a cesarean. New evidence suggests that the safer route for Twin A may indeed be a vaginal birth.

Researchers from France looked at 71 planned cesareans and 124 attempted vaginal births. They found no significant differences between the two groups in infant mortality, admission to the NICU, 5 minute APGAR scores, cord blood pH or birth trauma. In fact, the only significant difference was in the planned cesarean group. These mothers had a significantly higher rate of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombophlebitis (blood clots) which required anticoagulants.

Mothers of multiples should explore all of their options for birth with their providers. If necessary, get a second opinion during pregnancy. I would suggest that mothers look at finding doctors who are willing to perform vaginal breech births of twins in large teaching hospitals.

Take care!

Brenda