Twin charts should be the standard reference to assess growth in twin pregnancy

Abstract

Purpose of review Twin pregnancies are characterized by slower growth velocity compared with singletons, especially during the third trimester and, therefore, tend to be smaller than singletons. Growth surveillance is instrumental in the identification of twin pregnancies at risk of adverse outcomes. Whether the phenomenon of slow growth is an adaptive physiological response or represents pathological growth lag, is controversial. In this review, we focus on the evidence related to the types of growth charts employed for twin pregnancies. Recent findings Consistent evidence has emerged over the past few years from large independent cohorts in different countries suggesting that twin-specific standards perform better in identifying growth-restricted twin pregnancies at risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, without resulting in an increase in interventions or iatrogenic prematurity. Summary The current evidence supports the use of twin-specific reference charts. Concerted efforts should be made to derive prospective evidence from large multicentre studies on various aspects of the implementation of twin-specific standards.