Superfetation: Getting Pregnant While You Are Pregnant ‘

Most people get amazed when knowing about twin pregnancies — but imagine being pregnant with a new baby while you are still in an ongoing pregnancy. This mind-blowing pregnancy phenomenon is called superfetation.

Superfetation is a rare pregnancy phenomenon where a pregnant woman conceives a second baby while being in an existing pregnancy. Obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Sherry Tabije said that this second pregnancy takes place when fertilization and ovulation happen several weeks after a woman’s first conception, before the uterine cavity is closed. A recent example of this case is Bettinna Carlos’ pregnancy, who posted on her Instagram that her babies are 10 days apart based on size, but not conceived on the same day. 

According to Dr. Tabije explained that causes of having superfetation may be due to fertility treatments such as ovarian hyperstimulation and IVF, and some may be due to hormonal irregularities that keep the ovaries from releasing new eggs during conception. However, the OB-GYN emphasized that there is still a need for further studies to verify the causes of superfetation.

She also clarified that superfetation babies are not twins. Unlike twins, superfetation babies are not conceived on the same menstrual cycle and have different gestational stages, while having different development stages.

In terms of the danger of this medical case, Tabije said that superfetation is not dangerous, however diagnosing the said phenomenon requires complex processes like physical examination, ultrasound, and evaluating the patient’s history. Yet, as much as it is not dangerous, it is still at risk with asynchronous fetal development issues.

“A planned Cesarean section may increase the chances of a healthy delivery for both babies without complications, especially if one fetus matures more rapidly than the other fetus,” said Tabije.

Superfetation is indeed extraordinary. However, women who are diagnosed with this extremely rare condition should closely monitor the babies and attend regular prenatal care to ensure a healthy and successful pregnancy.