Multiple births in Nigerian Igbo women: incidence and outcomes.

The rate of multiple births varies amongst races and ethnic groups. This study shows that the incidence of multiple births among the Nigerian Igbo women is one in 35.5 or 28.2 per 1000 births. A significant difference in Apgar scores at 1 minute between the first and second twins suggests a greater risk for the second twin following the delivery of the first twin. Significantly lower Apgar scores and higher perinatal mortality rate in the twins compared with the singleton controls also indicate greater hazard for the multiple births in general. Successful management of multiple pregnancy can occur following early diagnosis and confirmation of fetal presentations, adequate antepartum fetal surveillance and prompt management of pregnancy complications; appropriate referrals to specialised centres when indicated; and prompt decisions as to timing and mode of delivery.