What are the chances of having twins
December 3, 2022
The chances of having twins vary depending on a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and ethnicity. Here is a breakdown of some of the key factors that may impact the likelihood of having twins:
- Genetics: If you or your partner have a family history of twins, you may have a higher chance of having twins yourself. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, about 25% of twins are hereditary, meaning that the tendency to have twins runs in families.
- Age: Women who are older tend to have a higher chance of having twins. The chances of having twins increase as a woman gets older, with the highest rates occurring in women over the age of 35. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women in their early 30s have a twin birth rate of about 1 in 53, while women in their late 30s have a rate of about 1 in 27.
- Ethnicity: Some ethnicities have a higher chance of having twins than others. For example, African-American women have a higher twin birth rate than white or Hispanic women. According to the CDC, the twin birth rate for African-American women is about 1 in 26, while the rate for white women is about 1 in 30 and the rate for Hispanic women is about 1 in 37.
Overall, the chances of having twins naturally are relatively low. However, advances in fertility treatments have made it possible for more couples to have twins if they wish. For example, the use of fertility drugs can increase the chances of having twins, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) can also result in multiple pregnancies, including twins.