DELAYED INTERVAL DELIVERY OF SECOND TWIN AT TERM FOLLOWING FIRST TWIN LOSS AT 15 WEEKS: A RARE CASE REPORT AND REVIEW

Gestational age at delivery remains a critical determinant of neonatal survival, with prematurity posing significant risks for increased neonatal morbidity and mortality. Twin pregnancies, by nature, are associated with a higher likelihood of preterm delivery, and it is typically expected that the second twin is delivered shortly after the first. However, delayed interval delivery—where the delivery of the second twin is intentionally postponed after the premature loss of the first—has emerged as a rare but promising strategy in specific clinical scenarios. We present a rare and successful case of delayed delivery of a second twin carried to term following the spontaneous abortion of the first twin at 15 weeks’ gestation. Cervical cerclage was employed as part of the management strategy, leading to a prolonged intrauterine interval and eventual term delivery of a viable second twin. This case adds to the limited literature supporting the feasibility and potential benefits of delayed interval delivery in select twin pregnancies. The case highlights the importance of individualized care, multidisciplinary monitoring, and careful selection of patients in achieving favorable maternal and neonatal outcomes. A review of existing literature is also presented to provide clinical context and insights into this uncommon obstetric phenomenon