Life situations of twin and triplet parents: A focus group study

Background: Starting in the middle of the 1980s, an increasing incidence of multiple pregnancies in Germany has been reported, with assisted reproduct ion mainly contributing to this increase. In the management of multiple pre gnancies, the main focus is on optimising the obstetric care. The difficult socio-economic and psychosocial situation of parents of multiples, however , is often underestimated. Methods: The present study examines the life situation of parents of twins and triplets using focus groups as a qualitative research method. Nineteen mothers and fathers of twins and triplets were interviewed in four focus gr oups. Main topics were the parental reaction to the diagnosis of multiple p regnancy, the first time at home with the multiples, special situations and wishes and ideas for a better care during multiple pregnancy. Results: The diagnosis of multiple pregnancy was made at early gestational age, with the parental reactions being described between "happiness" and "s hock". With this diagnosis, however, the future parents feel alone. Caring for the babies is leading to the limits of parent's ability to take stress. Marital problems and social isolation are discussed controversially. Excep tional situations such as illness of the mother require fast and unbureaucr atic solutions. Conclusions: The interviews suggest that special problems of multiple paren thood such as social isolation, marital and psychic problems are not necess arily related to higher order multiples or handicapped children. It appears to be essential to offer a more individual care for women expecting multip les, whereas the main resource for improving care is in providing contact a nd information possibilities.