Does twin pregnancy influence maternal mental wellbeing? – a cross sectional study

Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of self-reported prenatal anxiety and depressive symptoms among women pregnant with twins. Results: Depressive symptoms lasting for more than 14 days were reported by around 50% of women in multiple pregnancies (n=136) compared to 31% of women in single pregnancy with the same symptoms (n=943 p=<0.01 PHQ-9 score 5 or higher). More than 50% of women carrying twins who presented depressive symptoms have had uncomplicated pregnancy. Above mentioned data proves that twin gestation, even uncomplicated, can be more overwhelming than single pregnancy which affects mental wellbeing. Conclusions: The overall level of depressive symptoms among women pregnant with twins remains high. This situation may be attributed to not enough psychological monitoring during twin pregnancy and poor access to mental health specialists. The psychological condition of women in twin pregnancies needs attention.