Maternal and fetal benefits of fetal reduction in triplet pregnancies

Abstract

IntroductionTriplet pregnancy is a type of high-risk pregnancy that often results in premature delivery. Although fetal reduction is recommended, a number of factors can lead to triplet pregnancies without reduction. As there is no consensus on reduction, it is necessary to carry out a specific evaluation of the benefits of reduction in triplet pregnancy. This study was performed to evaluate and discuss the prognosis of triplet pregnancy with or without fetal reduction.Material and methodsClinical data from 24 women with triplet pregnancies were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Twelve women underwent fetal reduction (fetal reduction group) and 12 women continued triplet pregnancy (non-fetal reduction group). In the fetal reduction group, four dichorionic triamniotic triplets were reduced to dichorionic diamniotic twins (with a reduction of one of the monochorionic diamniotic fetuses); six trichorionic triamniotic triplets were reduced to dichorionic diamniotic twins (with a reduction of one monochorionic monoamniotic fetus).ResultsThere were significant differences in the incidence of premature rupture of membranes and neonatal hypoglycemia between the reduction and non-reduction groups. The average birth weight was significantly different between the reduction group and non-reduction group. The Apgar score was significantly different between the monochorionic monoamniotic reduction group and monochorionic diamniotic reduction group.ConclusionsTriplet pregnancy should be closely monitored throughout pregnancy and the perinatal period, regardless of fetal reduction. The chorionicity should be considered with fetal reduction. Compared with the mother, the remaining fetuses may benefit more from fetal reduction, especially in terms of neonatal weight.