P50.3: Haemorrhage into co-twin
The placenta forms in the mother’s womb during pregnancy. The placenta consists of cells from the mother and cells from the unborn child. The umbilical cord connects the child to the placenta. During pregnancy the umbilical cord connects the child's blood circulation to the mother's. The child receives nutrients and oxygen via the blood vessels in the umbilical cord.
A multiple pregnancy is when a woman is pregnant with more than one child at the same time. The blood circulation systems of the children can become connected to one another if the children share a single placenta. Blood from one child can then flow into another child's circulatory system.
If a large amount of blood is transferred to a different circulatory system, it means blood is lost. This can be life-threatening. The affected child may then be inadequately supplied with oxygen. The heart may also beat more slowly than usual. The child may then move about less than usual in the womb.
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