A High-Risk Pregnancy, Two Tiny Lives, and a Story of Hope
At just 15 weeks pregnant with twin boys, Meghann Bauer received news no expectant parent is prepared to hear: both of her babies were in danger.
Doctors diagnosed her with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), a rare and serious condition that can occur when identical twins share a single placenta. In TTTS, blood flow becomes unbalanced — one baby receives too much blood, while the other receives too little. Without treatment, the condition can be life-threatening for both babies.
Despite the fear and uncertainty, Meghann’s doctor offered reassurance. There were treatment options — and the best chance for her babies was at UCSF.
The Moment Everything Changed
During a routine checkup at 15 weeks, Meghann’s obstetrician noticed that the twins’ amniotic fluid levels were uneven — an early warning sign of TTTS. She was immediately referred to Dr. Rand and his team, who confirmed the diagnosis after further testing.
“We had worked so hard just to get pregnant,” Meghann recalls. “Then we found out we were having twins. To suddenly be told that both of their lives were at risk was absolutely heartbreaking.”
What she read about TTTS online was frightening. Survival statistics were discouraging. But her doctor didn’t hesitate — UCSF was the place to go.
Finding Hope at UCSF
From the moment they met Dr. Rand, Meghann and her husband felt a sense of calm.
“He was warm and reassuring, but also incredibly confident,” she says. “You could tell he truly knew what he was doing — and that he cared deeply.”
Dr. Rand was honest and clear. He promised to guide them every step of the way and assured them that he would know when the time was right to intervene.
That trust made all the difference.
Careful Monitoring and Clear Communication
Beginning at 15 weeks, Meghann was closely monitored — sometimes once or twice a week. Each visit involved detailed ultrasounds and heart evaluations for both babies, often lasting several hours.
At the end of each appointment, Dr. Rand or a colleague would sit down with the family and explain exactly what was happening.
“He would draw diagrams on a whiteboard,” Meghann says. “He showed us how the placenta worked, where the blood vessels connected, and how the fluid levels were changing week by week.”
As a teacher, Meghann appreciated the visual explanations. They helped her fully understand the condition — and made it easier to explain the situation to family and friends, since TTTS is not widely known.
A Critical Procedure — and a Turning Point
At 19 weeks, doctors determined it was time for treatment. Meghann underwent a laser procedure designed to separate the shared blood vessel connections in the placenta, correcting the imbalance between the twins.
She remained awake during the surgery, which was performed under spinal anesthesia.
“It was terrifying,” she admits. “But we knew we were in the best possible hands.”
A Joyful Outcome
The procedure worked.
At 35 weeks, Meghann delivered two healthy baby boys. They spent just six days in the hospital and never required oxygen, ventilators or intensive respiratory support.
Soon after, they went home — healthy, thriving and strong.
Two Identical Twins, Two Unique Personalities
Today, the boys couldn’t be more different.
“Matthew is our daredevil,” Meghann laughs. “He climbs everything and is always searching for the next adventure.”
“William is our comedian. He thinks everything is funny and loves making people laugh.”
Though they are identical twins, their personalities are entirely their own — a reminder of how precious and unique each life is.
A Message of Hope for Other Families
Looking back, Meghann knows how close she came to a very different outcome. Her story is one of fear, trust, advanced medicine and — ultimately — hope.
“TTTS is terrifying,” she says. “But with the right care and the right team, there is hope.”
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