monochorionic diamniotic twins (our twins are this) 2 separate sacs
VS.
monochorionic monoamniotic (we thought they were this) No separating membrane
After our initial Dr's visit, we were referred to a specialist and told they would call within the week to get us an appointment.
With multiples, you are automatically considered a high risk pregnancy, so it is best to see a perinatologist.
A few days later our appointment was scheduled and we were anxious to see the specialist a week later.
At the appointment the technician did a thorough ultrasound and then gave the scans to the dr.
After waiting for a while, she came in, greeted us and then gave us some scary news.
She started out with letting us know that both babies looked great but apparently the tech couldn't find a dividing membrane between the two. We had no idea what that meant so she went onto explain that in about 1% of identical twins they share both placenta and sac inside the womb.
This is the absolute highest risk identical twin pregnancy and the problem was that there was a very high chance of the babies umbilical cords getting twisted and tangled.
These twins are called monochorionic monoamniotic twins (or mono/mono).
She gave us a bunch of statistics but was still very positive. I of course was scared out of my mind and cried the whole way home.
We immediately said many prayers and Tommy gave me a beautiful blessing when we got home. I felt better almost immediately and felt a sense that everything would be ok.
My next appointment was with my regular OB about 2.5 weeks later. He checked in on the babies and they were looking great.
A week later we saw the specialist again. I think the shock of the news that we had gotten at the last appointment had worn off a little.
The ultrasound started and about 3 minutes in we heard some magical words.
"I think that's a membrane right there in between your babies"
and as she looked around some more, she said "Yep, that's definitely the dividing membrane, that is GREAT news"
I couldn't believe it. Those few words were probably the best I have ever received in my life.
Relief washed over both of us and we couldn't stop smiling.
After the ultrasound the dr. came in and congratulated us.
She let us know that it is very common that the membrane doesn't show up in the first few weeks because it is so early.
We were now in the best case scenario category for identical twins.
Our twins are now monochorionic diamniotic (or mono/di).
When we got home, our prayers were prayers of gratefulness and joy.
Now the membrane is pretty clear every time I get scanned.
I am so thankful for prayer and priesthood blessings.
