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Breastfeeding Twins
Breastfeeding twins is not only possible, it is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a mother! It is well known that breast milk is the most perfect food for infants too. But you should be well prepared and informed about every aspect of breastfeeding your twins beforehand. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will make breastfeeding much less complicated. And try to tune out anyone with negative things to say about it. Many folks can’t even grasp the concept of breastfeeding let alone breastfeeding twins!
The Benefits Of A Breast PumpBefore we get into the details of breastfeeding twins, I would like to talk a bit about breast pumps. You should definitely look into purchasing or renting a quality, electric breast pump before the birth of your babies. Most mothers will find them extremely handy, especially during the early months of twin breastfeeding.Because of the higher probability of a premature birth there may be some obstacles to overcome before you can start breastfeeding your twins. Some common problems with preemies are their inability to latch onto the breast and weak suckling. Not to mention the possible requirement of special care immediately following delivery for preemies and or mom. Thus, the need for a breast pump! Most hospitals will have their own breast pumps available for use during your stay so that your twins can be provided with breast milk via a Haberman feeder or feeding tube if need be. But you will need your own pump when you get home. There are many benefits to this which I will go over briefly. Firstly, a breast pump will really help you to attain the strong milk supply essential to nourishing two babies. Next, there is always the chance that your babies will need to stay in the nursery for several days or even weeks. So you may want to go home and pump breast milk to bring back to the hospital. Also, you should think about pumping extra breast milk that can be served to your babies by someone else via a bottle once you are home. This is especially important when you need some added help with feedings, but don’t want to give formula. Lastly, electric breast pumps are easy to use, portable, and come in a wide range of prices (about $40-$300). My personal favorite, the Medela New Pump In Style Original Breast Pump 
, was used for my twins as well as my singleton. It is without a doubt, stylish and reliable. Although, a bit on the pricey side, it was money well spent!
Feeding SchedulesMany mothers find it a real time saver to breastfeed twins at the same time. But this may not work for everyone at every feeding. Your babies may not always be hungry at the same time and/or you may not find it comfortable to nurse them together. A flexible feeding schedule usually works well, with a more defined schedule at night time (so you get some rest). But, of course, you will discover what works best for you and your babies.The nice thing about breastfeeding twins is that your milk is always ready and at the perfect temperature. That’s a good aspect to remember when you feel like giving up. Mixing formula, warming it, and sterilizing bottles can become even more time consuming than breastfeeding....Not to mention expensive! Another thing to consider is keeping a feeding log. This usually starts at the hospital and can then be continued at home. It’s an easy way of keeping tract of who was fed, at what time, and how much....A great help when you are tired, feeling stressed, and can't remember when you last had a bath, let alone who was fed! Breastfeeding twins may well be the first time you truly see their individuality. So keep this in mind when finding the right routine. Get ComfortableWhether breastfeeding twins at the same time or separately, it’s a good idea to be relaxed and comfortable. You will indeed find one or two positions that work particularly well. When nursing twins at the same time, try the double clutch hold (a.k.a. the football hold), double cradle hold, clutch and cradle hold, or lying down. There are even a few decent twin nursing pillows available that have been specially designed with large firm surfaces that easily support two babies. The Hugster Deluxe Twin Nursing Pillow and the Nurse EZ Plus Twin Nursing Pillow seem to be popular amongst twin mothers.*For more detailed information on twin nursing pillows, visit the Twin Gear page.
See example of the double clutch (football) hold in graphic below.
If you are ever in doubt about
breastfeeding twins
or have other questions and concerns, be sure to visit the
La Leche League International
website. The La Leche League has been around for 50 years and offers a loads of valuable breastfeeding information. |
