At the 19th International Congress on Twin Studies (held in Budapest 2021), ICOMBO presented its first award to an up-and-coming researcher whose work would be the most beneficial to multiple birth families.

The award was won by Sophie Groene, of the LUMC in the Netherlands for her work in the LEMON study, and research into the long-term effects of growth restrictions in monochorionic twins. We took a quick “koffietijd” (that’s the Dutch way to say coffee time!) with Sophie to talk about her work.

Tell us a little about your research

My research focuses on identical twins who share a single placenta in the womb that is unequally shared. This results in a difference in growth during pregnancy and a subsequent difference in birth weight as well. I want to know the effects of this growth difference on short- and long-term outcomes in order to provide both caregivers and parents with more information on what to expect and what to watch for.

What makes you so passionate about research into twins?

Monochorionic twins are at high risk of complications, which means that research is essential in further improving care. This makes me feel like my research can directly have an impact on the care for these children. I also notice this in conversations with parents, who sometimes share their worries with me. To be able to make a difference by explaining what we know and what we are currently researching, means a lot to me. Moreover, it is amazing to follow the development of twins throughout childhood and to get to see and hear about their special bond, not to mention the pictures of them together.

Why is the patient experience so important to you?

Patient participation is essential for clinical research. Without parents and their twins, there would be no research. I think it is important to let participants know that we are thankful for all the efforts on their side, however small or large they may be. By showing our appreciation, we can also keep people engaged in the research. After all, these are the people we are doing the research for, so their experiences are very valuable.

Fun fact about Sophie: Fraternal twins run in her family. Her mother is a twin, and her younger brother and sister are also twins.