Common Health Questions
BackDo twins run in families?
It depends on the type of twins.
There's no evidence that identical twins run in families. However, non-identical twins can run in families. A couple is more likely to have twins if there are twins in the woman's family.
Identical twins
Identical twins happen when 1 fertilised embryo splits into 2. Identical twins are sometimes called "monozygotic" twins.
Each baby will have the same genes. Identical twins are therefore the same sex - both boys or both girls - and they look very alike.
Non-identical twins
Non-identical twins happen when 2 eggs are fertilised by 2 sperm at the same time. Non-identical twins are sometimes called "fraternal" or "dizygotic" twins.
Some women may be genetically more likely to produce more than 1 egg during a menstrual cycle (hyperovulation). This makes it more likely they will have twins.
There are also non-genetic factors that can make non-identical twins more likely, including:
- ethnic group - twins are more common in some ethnic groups than others
- the age of the mother - the older the mother, the higher the chance of twins
- whether the woman has already had children
- infertility treatment
Non-identical twins do not have the same genes. They may be the same sex - both boys or both girls - or a boy and a girl. They will probably look no more alike than any other brothers and sisters.
Read the answers to more questions about pregnancy.
Further information
- Am I entitled to extra benefits if I'm expecting twins?
- Pregnancy and baby guide: pregnant with twins
- Pregnancy and baby guide: giving birth to twins
- Multiple Births Foundation
- Tamba: Twins and Multiple Births Association
Summary
It depends on the type of twins. There's no evidence that identical twins run in families. However, non-identical twins can run in families.
