THE DEATH OF A TWIN

Death or disability is much more common in multiple births than single children, especially in the perinatal period. Parents face particular problems in that their loss may be underestimated; their grieving may be impeded by the confusion between the live and the dead baby, and the constant reminder in the survivor may be painful. The surviving twin often suffers profoundly from the loss and may need lifelong support. The value of the twinship should always be respected.