Is enteric twin membrane separation abnormal?

From the Research

Enteric twin membrane separation is not abnormal and is actually associated with favorable outcomes in dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies. This separation occurs naturally as the embryos implant separately or split early in development, providing each fetus with its own protected environment and reducing risks associated with shared amniotic spaces [ 1 ]. The presence of separate membranes is generally considered favorable for twin pregnancies, as it typically indicates lower risk compared to monochorionic pregnancies where twins share a placenta and potentially an amniotic sac.

Key Points

• Enteric twin membrane separation is a normal finding in dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies [ 1 ]
• This separation provides each fetus with its own protected environment, reducing risks associated with shared amniotic spaces [ 1 ]
• The presence of separate membranes is generally considered favorable for twin pregnancies, indicating lower risk compared to monochorionic pregnancies [ 1 ]
• A study published in 2015 found that intertwin membrane separation is not associated with adverse outcomes in dichorionic twin pregnancies [ 1 ]

Management

• Healthcare providers should routinely monitor the intertwin membrane to ensure it remains intact, as rupture could lead to complications [ 2 ]
• The management of twin pregnancies with enteric twin membrane separation should be expectant, as this condition is not associated with adverse outcomes [ 1 ]