Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) is a rare but life-threatening condition that affects 10 to 15 percent of identical twins that share a placenta (monochorionic twins). TTTS can also occur in triplet or higher order pregnancies with monochorionic twins.

TTTS can have serious consequences to the babies so you will need to be monitored very closely by your doctors.

This video explains TTTS and the treatment option called laser therapy.

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What is TTTS?

 

If you are worried please talk to your midwife and doctors as they are best placed to explain your situation and treatment options for you.

Our helpline, Twinline, can provide a reassuring listening ear so you are not alone but we do not provide medical advice.


The diagrams below illustrate TTTS in a twin and triplet pregnancy.

Supported by the GIFT-Surg international research project which is funded by the Wellcome Trust and EPSRC

 

For further information please download our Complications Guide, which is designed to help you to understand some of the conditions associated with twin, triplet and higher-order pregnancies.

 

Personal experiences
Our TTTS journey - Lifesaving success with laser surgery
When Victoria and Darren's twins were diagnosed with TTTS, they used the Twins Trust website to educate themselves about the condition.
Holly's story
Florence and Beatrice were born via emergency c-section at 31+5 weeks.
Keziah shares her story for International TAPS Day
Life could have been very different for Keziah and husband Jordan, following an eventful pregnancy when the twins were diagnosed with both TTTS (Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome) and TAPS (Twin Anaemia-Polycythaemia Sequence).
Kloe's experience of TTTS
A mum who discovered she was pregnant on her 30th birthday later found out the twins she was carrying had Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).
Abbie's experience of TTTS
First time mum Abbie was stunned when at 17 weeks into her twin pregnancy she was told her girls faced an uncertain future because of TTTS
Abigail's miracle birth story
“In September 2020, at my 12-week scan, I found out we were expecting twins. We were over the moon; it was a complete shock but such exciting news."