Expecting Multiples

This is a comprehensive series of 7 separate classes for families who are expecting multiples. We recommend that families who are expecting their first babies take all 7 classes. Families who currently have children will benefit from classes 1, 3, 4, 5 and 7. We have found the best experience for families occurs when they take the classes in order; however, it is possible to start the classes at any point.

Many of our families find it helpful to connect and meet with other multiples parents, and they often keep friendships after their pregnancy! We also bring in former class members to share their pregnancy, birth, and parenting stories during our series.

Register now >> or call (206)789-0883.

Class Topics:

Week 1: Pregnancy with Multiples
This class provides an excellent start to your pregnancy experience of childbirth classes. It includes the opportunity to meet and connect with other class participants – who are also expecting multiples! The class will offer an overview of your pregnancy timeline, weight gain and nutritional guidelines, fraternal vs. identical babies, setting up support, and connecting with local mothers of multiples. You will receive handouts on belly and back support, obtaining a disabled parking permit, and planning for short-term disability.

Week 2: Labor Preparation with Multiples
This class discusses the normal process of labor and birth, methods such as breathing and relaxation for coping with pain in labor, and the role of the support person in labor. This class is optional for those who have taken a childbirth class with a previous pregnancy.

Week 3: Preventing Preterm Birth
Topics include how to respond to signs of problems that could lead to premature birth and about the needs of preterm infants.

Week 4: Birth of Multiples
This class explores in depth what makes a birth with multiples different from the birth of a single baby. Topics include vaginal birth of twins, potential variations of delivery for the second baby, the roles of staff members, Cesarean section birth, and epidural anesthesia.

Week 5: Breastfeeding Multiples
This class is about breastfeeding and discusses the basics of how a woman’s body produces milk, successful breastfeeding of 2 or more babies, choosing a twin nursing pillow, breast pumping, and milk storage.

Week 6: Basics of Newborn Care
This class discusses postpartum adjustment, normal newborn care, setting up your home, and tips for coping with more than 1 infant.

Week 7: Parenting Multiples
This class reviews parenting multiples, planning for success with newborn multiples, learning how to accept help from friends and families, setting up your home, choosing essential equipment, and tips for coping and thriving with more than 1 infant.

Logistics:

Time/Place: Each class of the series is two-and-a-half hours long is meets on Tuesday or Thursday evenings at the UW Physicians Roosevelt Clinic.

When to take this class: Complete the series by 32 weeks.

Cost: $245/couple for first-time parents (7 classes); $175/couple for experienced parents (5 classes). We can accept ProviderOne/DSHS for the series, and partial scholarships are available on request.

Our Instructor

Sheryl Rasmussen, RN is a childbirth educator and Labor and Delivery nurse at the University of Washington Medical Center. She co-developed the curriculum for Expecting Multiples and has been teaching this class for 15 years.