title: Childbirth education for multiple pregnancy: part 2: intrapartum and postpartum considerations.
abstract: Women with a multiple pregnancy can expect a different labor and birth course than those with a singleton pregnancy. While the postpartum period is similar to that of families with a singleton, it is likely to be more hectic in families with multiple infants. In addition, a multiple pregnancy increases both maternal and neonatal risks; therefore, women with a multiple pregnancy may experience slight differences in care due to these potential risks, including additional monitoring and treatment. This article discusses the intrapartum and postpartum considerations families with a multiple pregnancy/birth may experience. This information is provided so that the childbirth educator can incorporate this content into courses, as appropriate, and assist families with a multiple pregnancy to anticipate a realistic birth and postpartum experience.
authors.affiliation: KRISTEN MONTGOMERY is an assistant professor in the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina.
authors.forename: Kristen S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Montgomery
authors.forename: Sabrina
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Cubera
authors.forename: Christie
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Belcher
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Patrick
authors.forename: Heather
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Funderburk
authors.forename: Christa
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Melton
authors.forename: Michelle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fastenau