Factors Affecting Birth Weight in Triplets
Author Information
Author(s): Diane J. Lamb, Christel M. Middeldorp, Catharina E. M. van Beijsterveldt, Jacqueline M. Vink, Monique C. Haak, Dorret I. Boomsma
Primary Institution: VU University, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with birth weight in a large sample of triplets?
Conclusion
Birth weight in triplets is influenced by gestational age, sex, zygosity, and maternal smoking, with significant differences observed between monozygotic and dizygotic triplets.
Supporting Evidence
- Triplets gained an average of 130 grams per week from 24 to 40 weeks gestational age.
- Boys weighed 110 grams more than girls.
- Triplets of smoking mothers weighed 104 grams less than those of non-smoking mothers.
- Monozygotic triplets had lower birth weights than di- and trizygotic triplets.
- Birth weight discordance was more common in triplets than in twins.
Takeaway
Triplets often weigh less than single babies, and things like how far along the mom is in her pregnancy and whether she smokes can make a big difference in how much they weigh.
Methodology
The study analyzed birth weight in 1230 triplets from 410 families, considering factors like zygosity, gestational age, and maternal behaviors.
Potential Biases
There may be a selection bias as families with healthier triplets were more likely to participate.
Limitations
The sample may be positively biased as it only includes triplets who survived past 28 days after birth.
Participant Demographics
The sample included triplets from various zygosity groups and maternal backgrounds, with a focus on those registered with the Netherlands Twin Register.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.00
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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