Placental characteristics within monochorionic twin pregnancies
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Placental characteristics within monochorionic twin pregnancies: a prospective cohort study.
IRAS ID
347402
Contact name
Jack Hamer
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Birmingham Women`s and Children`s NHS FT
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
The placenta is connected to the developing twins by tubelike structures called umbilical cords. These provide oxygen and nutrients to the developing babies. Each baby shares a portion of the placenta, which allows each baby to grow. Whilst the function of the placenta is intended to be the same for each pregnancy, each placenta develops slightly differently.
An important question we are trying to answer is whether differences in placental anatomy play a role in how pregnancies develop and the twin babies grow. This includes aspects such the umbilical cords and where they are positioned within the placenta. Previous studies have suggested that characteristics of the placenta may play a role on twin development. However, current findings are not fully conclusive.
We want to try and understand whether certain placental characteristics have an influence on whether some pregnancies are uncomplicated, and others develop complications. This study aims to help us improve the way we care for women with twin pregnancies within the future.
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/EM/0193
Date of REC Opinion
22 Oct 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion