What mistaken belief did Colin's doctor have during Lisa's pregnancy?

What mistaken belief did Colin's doctor have during Lisa's pregnancy?

• A. She was having triplets instead of twins
• B. She had two placentas when there was only one
• C. She had a genetic defect affecting the pregnancy
• D. She required a planned C-section from the start

Answer: (B)

The belief that Lisa had two placentas when there was actually only one is significant because it reflects a misunderstanding of the multiple factors involved in twin pregnancies. In some cases, doctors may initially suspect the presence of two placentas due to the ultrasound images or symptoms presented in the early stages of the pregnancy. However, the presence of one shared placenta is a common occurrence in twin pregnancies, particularly in identical twins, which can lead to misinterpretations. Understanding placental distribution is crucial as it affects the management of the pregnancy and monitoring of the fetuses' health. Recognizing the correct placental configuration can help prevent complications associated with twin pregnancies, such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Therefore, the mistaken belief about the placentas highlights the importance of accurate diagnostic practices in obstetrics.

The belief that Lisa had two placentas when there was actually only one is significant because it reflects a misunderstanding of the multiple factors involved in twin pregnancies. In some cases, doctors may initially suspect the presence of two placentas due to the ultrasound images or symptoms presented in the early stages of the pregnancy.

However, the presence of one shared placenta is a common occurrence in twin pregnancies, particularly in identical twins, which can lead to misinterpretations. Understanding placental distribution is crucial as it affects the management of the pregnancy and monitoring of the fetuses' health. Recognizing the correct placental configuration can help prevent complications associated with twin pregnancies, such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Therefore, the mistaken belief about the placentas highlights the importance of accurate diagnostic practices in obstetrics.