Identical twins share very similar DNA. This means that the babies will legally be cousins, but genetically, theyll be closer to siblings.

Can one identical twin have a birth defect?

Babies from twin pregnancies are more likely to suffer from birth-related complications than those from singleton pregnancies. Fraternal and identical twins can be affected by pregnancy complications, and subsequent birth defects.

Can identical twins give birth to twins?

A pair of sisters from Utah have taken the notion that twins do everything together to a new level. Identical twins Kelli Wall and Kerri Bunker, 36, each gave birth to twins of their own within the last six weeks. Not only that, but this is also the second set of twins for each woman.

What happens when identical twins die?

If the twin dies in the second or third trimester, there are increased risks to the surviving fetus, including a higher rate of cerebral palsy. When a twin dies after the embryonic period of gestation, the water within the twins tissues, the amniotic fluid, and the placental tissue may be reabsorbed.

What can go wrong with identical twins?

Multiple birth babies have a higher risk of congenital abnormalities, including neural tube defects like spina bifida and gastrointestinal and heart abnormalities.

What is a good weight for twins at birth?

The average birth weight of full-term twins (37 weeks or later, compared to 39-40 weeks for singletons) is around 5 ½ pounds each, though one baby often weighs more than the other. Because of the additional weight, twin pregnancies tend to be more uncomfortable.

Are twins more likely to have health problems later in life?

Theyre also more likely to have health problems later in life, like high blood pressure. More than half of twins and nearly all higher order multiples weigh less than they should at birth. Twin-twin transfusion syndrome.

Do identical twins have the same life expectancy?

Twins not only have a bestie from birth — they also live longer than singletons. And those two factors may be related, according to new University of Washington research. Analysis shows that twins have lower mortality rates for both sexes throughout their lifetimes.

Are twins harder to carry?

Since twins are difficult both inside and outside the womb, Dr. Atlas says you should solicit extra help if youre expecting twins. Do not be superwoman, he warns. You will need your rest.

How long does labor last with twins?

In twin pregnancies, it took an average of 12.7 hours for the cervix to progress from 4 centimeters to fully dilated, at 10 centimeters. In singleton pregnancies, this took an average of 9.6 hours.

At what week are most twins born?

If youre carrying more than one baby, chances are good youll deliver early. Twins are usually born around 36 weeks -- four weeks early. Triplets arrive at about 33 weeks, and quads often make their debut at 31 weeks.