Kaksikutest

Kaksikutest refers to twins in Estonian. Twins are two offspring produced in the same pregnancy. The occurrence of twins can be divided into two main types: identical (monozygotic) and fraternal (dizygotic). Identical twins develop from a single fertilized egg that splits into two embryos, resulting in genetically identical individuals. Fraternal twins develop from two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm, meaning they share about half of their genes, similar to any other siblings born at different times.

The rate of twin births varies among different populations and is influenced by factors such as maternal age, genetics, and the use of fertility treatments. In Estonia, as in many other countries, the number of twin births has seen an increase in recent decades, partly attributed to advancements in reproductive technologies.

The study of twins, known as multiple birth studies or twin studies, is a valuable tool in scientific research. By comparing identical and fraternal twins, researchers can investigate the relative contributions of genetics and environment to various traits, behaviors, and diseases. This helps to understand the complex interplay between nature and nurture. Kaksikutest are therefore a subject of interest not only in everyday life but also in scientific inquiry.