If one twin is significantly smaller than the other, they may be considered
discordant.  In the case of discordant twins, the larger of the two babies
tends to "steal" all the nutrients that are available, leaving the other
twin in a poor state of growth.  The smaller of discordant twins is at great
risk and can die.  Often the only way to help the smaller twin and get it
the nutrients it so desperately needs is to deliver the babies.  I'm not a
fan of inductions for the most part, but in the case of discordant twins, it
is often the only way to help the smaller baby.

Hope this helps,

Christina Harris, RN
Washington state, USA

On Jan 25, 2008 10:44 AM, Karyn-grace Clarke <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> Thank you for this explanation.  I have a client 34.5 weeks pregnant with
> twins.  Her doctor is saying they might induce 'soon' because one of the
> twins
> is 'small'.  That's it, no other reasoning.  Mother is healthy is all
> respects.
>
> Any idea what gives with that?
>
> Karyn-grace Clarke, IBCLC, LLLL
> Principal Researcher, "Elminiating the Barriers"
> Gulf Islands, BC, Canada
>
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