Abstract:

Aim: The present study was carried out to investigate the difference in metabolic needs between twin and singleton pregnancies by looking at some biochemical and hormonal markers in the amniotic fluid taken at the time of birth in Awassi sheep. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Awassi sheep were used in the study. The first group of the study (Group 1, n=15); ewes carrying one offspring included the second group of the study (Group 2, n=15); created sheep carrying two offsprings. From the sheep in both study groups; 10 ml of amniotic fluid was taken with a sterile syringe without disturbing the integrity of the amniotic sac hanging from the lips of the vulva at the time of delivery. Electrolyte (sodium, potassium, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus), total protein, glucose, liver (ALT and AST), kidney biomarkers (urea and keratinin) and cortisol levels were measured from the amniotic fluid. Obtained data were analyzed with independent samples t-test. Results: Glucose and cortisol levels were significantly higher in the twin pregnant group than in the singleton pregnant group (p<0.05). Calcium level was found to be significantly higher in the single pregnant group than in the twin pregnant group (p<0.05). As a result, a difference was observed in the parameters evaluated depending on the number of offspring in the amniotic fluid. Conclusion: It was concluded that considering the metabolic needs differences due to the number of offspring may be a parameter that should be evaluated in the follow-up of the pregnancy and birth process.

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