Question

An expectant couple attending childbirth classes have questions regarding multiple births since twins "run in the family." What information regarding multiple births is important for the nurse to share?

a.Twinning and other multiple births are increasing because of the use of fertility drugs and delayed childbearing.
b.Dizygotic twins (two fertilized ova) have the potential to be conjoined twins.
c.Identical twins are more common in Caucasian families.
d.Fraternal twins are the same gender, usually male.

Answer 1

Dizygotic twins result from two separate eggs being fertilized, while monozygotic twins result from a single fertilized egg splitting into two embryos. The use of fertility drugs and delayed childbearing are contributing factors to the increase in multiple births.

Step-by-step explanation:

Multiple births, such as twins, can occur in two different scenarios. Dizygotic or fraternal twins are the result of two separate eggs being fertilized by two separate sperm. They are no more identical than siblings born at different times. On the other hand, monozygotic or identical twins occur when a single fertilized egg splits into two separate embryos. These twins share the same DNA and are more likely to be identical. It's important to note that twinning and other multiple births are increasing due to factors such as the use of fertility drugs and delayed childbearing.