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How many babies can a woman have in her stomach?

Published in Human Biology 2 mins read

A woman can have multiple babies in her uterus (not her stomach), and while there's no strict upper limit biologically, the highest recorded number of fetuses was 15.

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  • The Uterus, Not the Stomach: It's important to clarify that babies develop in the uterus, which is located in the pelvic region, not the stomach. The stomach is part of the digestive system.

  • Multiple Pregnancies: A woman's uterus can accommodate more than one baby at a time, leading to multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.).

  • Biological Limits: The number of babies a woman can carry is ultimately limited by the size and capacity of her uterus, as well as the overall health and well-being of the mother and the fetuses. Carrying a very high number of fetuses poses significant risks.

  • The Case of Quindecaplets: In 1971, an Italian doctor, Dr. Gennaro Montanino, reported the removal of 15 fetuses (quindecaplets) from a 35-year-old woman's womb.

  • Practical Considerations: Modern medical practices often involve selective reduction in cases of very high-order multiple pregnancies to improve the chances of survival and health for the remaining fetuses.

In conclusion, while the uterus can theoretically accommodate a high number of fetuses, the largest recorded number was 15. However, carrying such a large number poses significant health risks.

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