What is a common characteristic of multiple gestations?

A common characteristic of multiple gestations is an increased risk for complications during pregnancy. This is due to several factors associated with carrying more than one fetus, including the greater physical demands on the mother's body, which may lead to conditions such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preterm labor. The presence of multiple placentas can also introduce additional risks, such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in identical multiples.

In contrast, the likelihood of natural childbirth tends to decrease in multiple gestations due to the higher chance of needing interventions such as cesarean sections. Nutritional requirements actually increase because the mother is supporting multiple growing fetuses, necessitating additional caloric and nutrient intake to ensure adequate growth and health for both mother and babies. Furthermore, fewer prenatal appointments are not advisable; rather, multiple gestations often require more frequent monitoring to manage and address the higher risks effectively. Consequently, the increased risk for complications defines a crucial aspect of managing multiple pregnancies.