How Do Conjoined Twins Happen?

Conjoined twins develop when an early embryo only partially separates to form two individuals. Although two fetuses will develop from this embryo, they will remain physically connected — most often at the chest, abdomen or pelvis. Conjoined twins may also share one or more internal organs.

What is the cause of conjoined twins?

What causes conjoined twins? Identical twins occur when a single fertilized egg (embryo) splits and develops into two individuals. The dominant theory on the origin of conjoined twins suggests that when the single embryo splits later, separation stops before the process is complete, leaving the babies joined.

Can a conjoined twin get pregnant?

Of all the female conjoined twin sets either documented by medical authorities or referenced in ancient literary sources, in only one case were pregnancy and delivery successfully achieved by the conjoined twins themselves.