C-Section

So it looks like I will be having a C-Section. We have not set a date yet but the Dr feels it will be the safest way to deliver the twins. The reason is because Derrick has only one umbilical artery. What does that mean?

What is a Single Umbilical Artery?
Normally, an umbilical cord has three vessels. One is a vein and two are arteries. The vein carries blood away from the fetus and back to the mother's bloodstream via the placenta, while the arteries carry mom's nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the developing baby. In a pregnancy with a single umbilical artery, one of the two umbilical cord arteries is missing, leaving only one vein and one artery.

Is a Single Umbilical Artery Dangerous?
Having a single umbilical artery can lead to an increased risk of birth defects, but these are usually associated with other signs as well. Doctors using ultrasound can spot chromosomal abnormalities that may be associated with the loss of an umbilical artery. The pregnant woman will then be referred for further testing through tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. The good thing is that the ultra sounds are not revealing any abnormalities and the Dr has no concerns.

If the fetus doesn't have any other problems seen via ultrasound or through amniocentesis, then problems due to a single umbilical artery are not likely to occur. However, sometimes the doctor will want to order extra ultrasounds (which I have every 3-4 weeks any way, being that I am having twins) throughout the pregnancy just to be on the safe side. This can help rule out instances of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), when the baby's blood supply is not providing enough nutrients for proper growth, which might occur due to abnormal umbilical cord blood vessels.

The reason for the Csection is to decrease the chances of stress on the baby during delivery. With only one artery, and the stress of labor it can decrease the oxygen to the baby. Therefore a Csection will alleviate any stress and concern.

How Common is a Single Umbilical Artery?
One percent of single births and about five percent of pregnancies carrying twins or other multiples have the problem of the fetus developing only a single umbilical artery. The incidence of single umbilical arteries is higher in Caucasian women and in female babies. Mothers older than 40 and those who have had more than three children also are in a higher risk group for their baby to develop this condition. Doctors may wish to follow up more frequently with pregnant women who are in these high-risk groups.