Intertwin delivery interval at vaginal delivery of twin pregnancies

Delay in the delivery of the second twin at vaginal twin delivery is a clinical situation that is distressing to both parents and clinician. Although the delivery of the second twin is achieved within a reasonable time period of the delivery of the first twin in most cases, a delay is encountered in some owing to many contributory causes. Although the main concern is regarding the well-being of the second twin who is at risk of potential hypoxia, unnecessary interventions such as instrumental delivery and operative deliveries may expose both mother and baby to undue risks. The intertwin delivery interval is one factor that can change the outcome of the second twin, that is potentially under the control of the clinician. Therefore, it is of paramount importance that a balance is struck between avoiding delays and hasty interventions.