Understanding How Twins Are Conceived: Fraternal vs Identical

Learn how twins are conceived, including the differences between fraternal and identical twins and their influencing factors.

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Twins occur when either two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm (fraternal twins) or when a single fertilized egg splits into two (identical twins). Fraternal twins can be influenced by genetics, maternal age, or fertility treatments, while identical twins occur randomly.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are the different types of twins? The two main types of twins are fraternal twins, which come from two separate eggs and sperm, and identical twins, which originate from a single fertilized egg that splits.
  2. Can genetics influence the likelihood of having twins? Yes, genetics can influence the occurrence of fraternal twins. Factors like family history, maternal age, and fertility treatments can increase the chances.
  3. Are identical twins more common than fraternal twins? No, fraternal twins are more common than identical twins. Identical twins occur randomly and are less frequent.
  4. What are some factors that can increase the chances of having twins? Factors that can increase the likelihood of having twins include maternal age (older mothers are more likely to have twins), family history of twins, and the use of fertility treatments.