Research: Twin studies

8 December 2005

Twins conceived by IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) showed lower levels of cognitive functioning than IVF/ICSI singletons, an international study of nearly 700 families has revealed. Mothers of twins showed significantly higher levels of parenting stress and depression than mothers of singletons, and were less likely to obtain pleasure from their children. However, there were no differences in the levels of emotional or behavioural problems in twins and singletons.

Photo credit: Anthea Sieveking

External links

• (Coming soon) Olivennes F et al. Behavioral and cognitive development as well as family functioning of twins conceived by assisted reproduction: findings from a large population study. Fertil Steril 2005;84(3):725–33.