Singer Jesy Nelson recently shared an emotional update regarding the complications she is experiencing in her pregnancy with twin babies. Former Little Mix singer Jesy, who is having twins with partner Zion Foster, announced that she has been diagnosed with pre-twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (pre-TTTS). The condition, which is present in pregnancies involving twins with a shared placenta, has serious risks involved and needs intense medical supervision. As Nelson embarks on this difficult journey, her story enlightens us about a rare but dangerous condition many expectant parents may not know much about.

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare but dangerous condition that arises in monochorionic twin pregnancies, in which identical twins share a single placenta. The placenta supplies the developing babies with oxygen, nutrients, and blood flow, but in TTTS, there is an imbalance of blood vessels that interconnect the twins, and thus the vital resources are not evenly distributed. One twin, or the donor twin, shares excess blood with the other, referred to as the recipient twin. This leads to one baby becoming malnourished and possibly anemic, and the other in danger of heart problems due to too much blood.

Nelson described her diagnosis in a heartfelt Instagram video, explaining that she is currently in the pre-stage of TTTS and undergoing frequent monitoring. "I am being scanned twice a week, and each time, things have gotten a little worse," she shared, expressing her fears and hopes for the health of her babies.

Potential Risks of TTTS

If left untreated, TTTS can have devastating consequences. Medical research indicates that:

• 90% of the cases of untreated TTTS lead to loss of one or both twins.
• Despite treatment, only a 70% survival rate for both twins is assured.
• Severe forms can result in preterm labor, cardiac failure in the recipient twin, and organ failure in the donor twin.
• Complications in long-term survivors include neurological damage and developmental delay in surviving infants.

TTTS usually advances in stages, beginning with minimal changes in fluid levels and worsening as one twin continues to get an unequal share of blood. In extreme cases, fetal laser surgery, referred to as the Solomon technique, can be employed to divide the blood vessels and balance the twins.

Why Identical Twin Pregnancies Are More Complicated

Identical twins may develop differently, and their own unique form of placental sharing can have a dramatic effect on pregnancy risk. Jesy Nelson's twins are considered monochorionic diamniotic (mono/di), which means they share a placenta but have two amniotic sacs. This is the type of pregnancy in about 70% of identical twin pregnancies and carries an increased risk of complications like TTTS, umbilical cord entanglement, and growth restriction.

Conversely, dichorionic diamniotic (di/di) twins both have a separate placenta and amniotic sac, which greatly diminishes the threat of TTTS. Twin pregnancy type is normally identified by early ultrasound, with physicians being able to track future complications from inception.

Other Twin Pregnancy Health Risks

Twin pregnancies, even without the presence of TTTS, entail a variety of health risks to the mother as well as infants:

1. Premature Birth

Over 60% of twin pregnancies end in premature delivery, with birth usually taking place before 37 weeks. Premature infants can have immature organs and need neonatal intensive care (NICU) assistance to assist with breathing, feeding, and infection fighting.

2. Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia

Pregnant women with multiples are at increased risk of having high blood pressure during pregnancy. This, if left untreated, can result in preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can result in damage to organs, preterm labor, and in some cases, maternal or fetal death.

3. Anemia

Pregnant women carrying multiples are twice as likely to experience anemia, a condition where the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and complications during delivery.

4. Birth Defects

According to John Hopkins Medicine, multiple birth babies are twice as likely to have congenital abnormalities compared to single births. These can include heart defects, neural tube defects, and gastrointestinal issues.

5. Amniotic Fluid Imbalances

When twins have to share a placenta, they are more likely to have polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (not enough amniotic fluid). Both result in distress to the babies during fetal development and can result in premature labor.

6. Postpartum Hemorrhage

Twins are at increased risk of excessive postpartum hemorrhage because their uterus is larger and there are greater blood supply needs.

Jesy Nelson's openness about her challenging experience is raising awareness for TTTS, a condition that few individuals—let alone expectant mothers and fathers—might be aware of. Through her tearful video, Nelson stressed the significance of knowing about twin pregnancies aside from the thrill of having multiples. "We had no idea that this type of thing occurs when you're having twins. We just desperately want to make people aware of this because there are so many people who aren't aware."

Her case reminds us of the intricacies involved in twin pregnancy and the significance of early identification and medical management. For mothers carrying twins, frequent ultrasounds and vigilance can become a life-and-death issue for early detection and better outcomes of both babies.

Through constant medical attention and care, she and her partner Zion Foster remain positive and get ready for their babies to be born. In other parents whose situations are no different, the story of Nelson highlights awareness, medical progress, and emotional encouragement in handling complicated pregnancies.

The expecting parents of twin siblings are advised to discuss TTTS screening and possible interventions with their physicians to give their babies the best chance.

A 51-year-old Brazilian businesswoman has died after undergoing six facial cosmetic procedures during surgery lasting several hours.

Andreia Vieira Gaspar, from Goiânia, Brazil, died on August 12, the Daily Star reported.

According to Brazilian news outlet G1 Goiás, the procedures reportedly included a deep facelift, neck liposuction, eyelid surgery, jawline work and other facial procedures.

What Happened?

Andreia reportedly left the operating theatre heavily swollen and struggling to breathe. Her condition worsened overnight, with neck pain and increasing breathing difficulties. She reportedly told her sister, Djiane Vieira: “Sis, I'm dying.”

Djiane then sought help from the medical team through a group chat, saying her sister was dying and asking for immediate assistance.

The Public Ministry of Goiás has requested a police investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter.

The family alleged that Andreia's condition worsened after surgery and questioned whether the hospital was equipped to handle a serious postoperative emergency. They also alleged that it did not have an intensive care unit or an ambulance available.

G1 reported that her condition deteriorated about six hours after surgery and that she died despite resuscitation attempts.

A medical report cited by the family identified acute thrombosis and pulmonary infarction as the causes of death.

Andreia had previously run a beauty salon in Goiânia and had lived in Spain for five years. Her family said undergoing the procedures had been a long-held dream. Her sister said Andreia had spent two years saving for the surgery, which cost BRL 118,000 (£16,800).

How Can Beauty Treatments Go Wrong?

Social media trends, celebrity endorsements and demand for anti-ageing treatments have fueled interest in cosmetic procedures and injectable treatments. Experts warn that unregulated procedures can carry risks, including allergic reactions and infections, while severe complications can affect organs such as the liver and kidneys.

The cosmetic surgery market was estimated at USD 94.1 billion in 2025.

Experts stress that cosmetic procedures should involve realistic expectations, qualified medical advice and a clear understanding of the risks, recovery and costs.

Seven Questions To Ask Before A Cosmetic Procedure

Dr Chintan Gujarati, Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic, told HealthandMe that cosmetic procedures require careful planning and informed decision-making.

He recommends asking:

1. Is the procedure right for me?

Discuss whether it suits your health, goals and individual needs.

2. Is my surgeon qualified?

Ensure the procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or appropriately trained specialist.

3. What are the risks?

Ask about possible complications, including infection, scarring and the need for further treatment.

4. What results can I realistically expect?

Cosmetic procedures can improve appearance but cannot guarantee perfection.

5. What is the recovery process?

Ask about downtime, pain management, activity restrictions and when you can resume normal activities.

6. What will the procedure cost?

Request a breakdown of consultation, hospital, medication and follow-up costs.

7. What if I am unhappy with the results?

Discuss revision policies and corrective options before proceeding.

Children under 15 account for half of the 46 suspected mpox cases in Guinea-Bissau, which declared its first mpox outbreak on July 4, UNICEF said.

As of August 17, the country had reported seven confirmed cases, all among adults. Six were reported in the Autonomous Sector of Bissau and one in the Biombo Region. No deaths have been reported.

Of the 46 suspected cases, 23 are children under 15, including 16 aged 0-4 years. Young children face a greater risk of complications from mpox.

“This is the first time mpox cases have been reported in Guinea-Bissau, making even a small outbreak a major public health event,” said Sandra Martins, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Guinea-Bissau.

“While the country’s surveillance system remains extremely fragile, we face the risk that cases are going undetected, particularly among children who are the most vulnerable to severe complications.”

Concerns Over Undetected Transmission

UNICEF said the confirmed cases do not appear connected, raising concerns about undetected chains of transmission and additional unidentified cases.

Gaps remain in community-based surveillance, including contact identification, sample testing and tracing how the virus is spreading.

Martins urged families to seek care if a child or family member develops a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes or other symptoms.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, the same family as the variola virus that causes smallpox.

Symptoms of Mpox

Mpox symptoms are generally milder than those of smallpox. After an incubation period of 5 to 21 days, symptoms typically begin with fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.

The disease usually resolves within 2 to 4 weeks, but severe cases can occur, particularly in children, pregnant women and immunocompromised people. Common symptoms include:

• Skin rash
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Body aches
• Back pain
• Low energy
• Swollen lymph nodes

How Does Mpox Spread?

Mpox can spread through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids or skin lesions of infected animals, including rodents and primates.

Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact with respiratory secretions, skin lesions or contaminated objects. The virus can enter through broken skin, the respiratory tract or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth.

Mpox: How Can Children Be Protected?

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for preventing mpox transmission include:

• Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus, particularly in regions where mpox is endemic.
• Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves and gowns when caring for infected individuals.
• Isolate infected individuals from others who are at risk of contracting the virus.
• Get vaccinated where available. The smallpox vaccine has been shown to provide some protection against mpox, while newer vaccines specifically designed for mpox are being deployed.

The Centre has tightened restrictions on certain cough and cold medicines for children below four years, citing potential health risks associated with a specific drug combination in children.

The Union Health Ministry has restricted the manufacture, sale and distribution of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) containing chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrine hydrochloride for children under four.

Manufacturers have also been instructed to carry a clear warning stating that the medicine “shall not be used in children below four years of age.”

The decision follows recommendations from an expert committee and the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), which reviewed the safety of the combination in young children.

Why These Medicines Have Been Restricted?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine, while phenylephrine is a decongestant. The combination is used to relieve symptoms like blocked or runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes caused by colds, flu and allergies.

However, young children can respond differently to medicines than adults, and dosing errors or adverse effects can result in more serious effects in this age group.

The Health Ministry’s expert committee concluded that the combination could pose potential health risks in children below four, particularly when safer alternatives are available.

The latest directive therefore requires manufacturers to clearly communicate the age restriction rather than putting the onus on parents.

Also read: FSSAI Orders Halt Of Ghee Sales Amid Adulteration Crackdown: How To Spot Fake Ghee & Its Effects On Your Health

Cough And Cold Medicines Are Not Always Needed In Young Children

A common cold is usually caused by a virus, meaning antibiotics do not treat it. In many children, symptoms improve with supportive care such as adequate fluids, rest and measures recommended by a paediatrician.

Combination cough and cold products can contain several active ingredients, increasing the possibility of incorrect dosing and side effects if parents give more than one medicine containing the same ingredient.

This is particularly important for young children because their medication doses are generally calculated according to age and/or body weight.

Also read: Shigellosis Cases In Kerala Raise AMR Concern: All About Complications Due To Drug-Resistant Shigella

Restriction Comes Amid Wider Scrutiny Of Cough Medicines

The government has been tightening oversight of paediatric medicines following serious concerns surrounding cough syrups in India.

In June, the Centre removed cough syrups from an exemption that had allowed certain products to be sold through retail outlets in smaller villages without the same pharmacy restrictions.

What Parents Should Do?

Parents should avoid giving children under four any medicine containing this combination unless specifically advised by a qualified healthcare professional.

• Before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child, parents should:
• Check the active ingredients, not just the brand name.
• Follow the dose prescribed by a paediatrician.
• Avoid combining multiple cold medicines without medical advice.
• Use the measuring device supplied with liquid medicines rather than household spoons.
• Never give a medicine prescribed for another child.
• Seek medical attention if a child’s symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening.

The government has emphasised that safer alternatives are available, while the latest restriction is intended to reduce avoidable medication-related risks in young children.