Paljunemiskäiku

Paljunemiskäiku, also known as multiple births or polyembryony, refers to the occurrence of more than one offspring from a single pregnancy. This phenomenon can result in twins, triplets, or even higher-order multiples. The term "paljunemiskäiku" is derived from the Estonian words "palju" meaning "many" and "nemiskäiku" meaning "birth."

Multiple births can occur through various mechanisms, including:

1. **Fertilization of multiple eggs**: This is the most common cause, where multiple eggs are fertilized by sperm, leading to the development of multiple embryos.

2. **Splitting of a single fertilized egg**: In some cases, a single fertilized egg can divide into multiple embryos, a process known as cleavage.

3. **Fragmentation of a single fertilized egg**: This occurs when a fertilized egg splits into two or more fragments, each of which can develop into an embryo.

The prevalence of multiple births varies by country and region. Factors that can influence the likelihood of multiple births include maternal age, genetics, and environmental factors. Advances in medical technology, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), have also contributed to the increasing prevalence of multiple births.

While multiple births can be a joyful event, they also present unique challenges for both the mother and the newborns. Healthcare providers must be prepared to manage the complexities associated with multiple births, including potential complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and respiratory issues.