{Guest Post} 5 Things I know About Breastfeeding Twins

Posted on: September 8, 2016 | Breastfeeding, Postpartum

Today I am pleased to host Molly Staples from Molly Staples, Doula.  She is sharing her expertise from personal experience on nursing her own adorable twins!

Tandem nursing is not for everyone

Tandem nursing involves nursing both babies at once.  This also means burping two babies and possibly dealing with two little piles of spitup.  It’s not glamourous, but it definitely happens.  It also means that you are not spending time one-on-one with each baby, which has it’s benefits.  Tandem nursing definitely has it’s place, but do not be afraid to say it’s not for you.  I applaude all mothers who choose it and work very hard to accomplish it.  The positive side is that you have a little more free time; you have cut your feeding time in half.  It’s a two sided coin, but don’t be afraid to say that you are abandoning one side.

Hydration is the #1 most important thing

It is more important than ever that you are constantly drinking water.  It’s nice to add back your coffee (if you’ve avoided coffee during pregnancy) but remember that your hydration status will directly correlate to your production, so tread lightly.  Ask your healthcare provider for a recommendation on how much water you need to drink when nursing, and stick to it.  Every time you nurse, you’ll want a big glass of water next to you to replace what the babies are eating.

You’ll want a good breastpump

See above, tandem feeding is hard.  If you can have one baby taking a bottle while you nurse one baby, you’ll find that there is less crying, and more bonding happening with you, your babies and your partner.  Have a good breast pump and use it often.  Invest in a hands-free pumping bra (I’m currently pumping while blogging).  These things are worth their weight in gold and will give you some freedom.

Formula is an option

Breastfeeding is obviously the preferential meal for infants, but who is to say that it’s right for you?  Choose your battles.  If formula gives you peace, if it allows an extra hour of sleep, if you need to use it, use it.  Pump as often as possible, if you’d like, to keep production up and use formula and breastmilk in combination.  A fed baby is the best kind of baby.

You will need support

Having twins is hard; nursing them is hard.  Giving them breastmilk is an amazing gift that will benefit their immune systems, and their future.  Give yourself a thumbs up for each day you choose to, and successfully breastfeed.  Make sure others around you know that you’re a bad ass, because you are.  See as many lactation consultants you can before you discharge from the hospital, and ask your doula for a referral in your local area in case you need help.  Go to support groups, visit with other moms who are nursing.

You are doing wonderful, fabulous, taxing work.  Nice Job.

If you are in Maine and wanting more information on the services provided by Molly Staples, check her out at Molly Staples Doula.