What Is TTTS?

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) happens when one baby receives less blood from the placenta than her twin.

Consequently, the baby with lesser nutrition does not grow well because of inadequate circulation.

Detection Time

If you find your abdomen enlarging rapidly it may be a case of TTTS.

Gynaecologist Dr. Duru Shah says, "The more severe the syndrome is, the earlier it gets detected. In fact, TTTS can even be detected at 14 weeks."

Also Read: Twin Trouble

TTTS cannot be detected by normal routine tests. So, if your doctor finds something amiss, she will ask you to take a Colour Doppler test.

This test determines how the blood is flowing in your womb, among other things. Hence, it will become evident if one baby is getting more blood than the other.

Treatment Available

As far as the treatment goes, amnioreduction helps. In this process, the amniotic fluid from around the foetus that is receiving more blood is removed.

Also Read: Trying to Have Twins?

Remember, excess amniotic fluid will build more pressure on the mouth of the uterus, leading to a preterm delivery. The removal of the fluid balances the nutrition levels between the babies. However, this treatment is temporary because the fluid may build up again.

Nowadays, laser coagulation is considered effective. Here, the connection between the blood vessels between the two foetuses is terminated. This treatment is not available in India. However, with your doctor's help and reference, you can get this treatment done abroad.

Also Read: 100 Sets of Twins in One Village