Being a mum is a great and joyous journey. And having twins means double the joy. But we cannot deny that having twins means double the effort. Your body will need the energy and resources to feed 3 people, which can be overwhelming. Therefore, we gathered up some tips to make breastfeeding twins easier and smoother.
Tips to Ease Breastfeeding Twins
1| Plan a schedule for breastfeeding twins.
As a new mum, you will need to breastfeed your newborn baby from 8 to 12 times a day. Especially during the first few weeks. Approximately, this can mean breastfeeding twins every hour to every two or three hours. Each feeding time can take about 20 to 30 minutes.
Planning your twin’s feeding time is important. Especially that you must feed both of your babies at the same time. As that will save your time and energy, unlike spending your day just breastfeeding twins randomly.
In addition, keep in mind that each baby will have his or her own feeding habits. The way they eat, their appetite, and their breastfeeding patterns will be different. Therefore, try to balance breastfeeding twins at the same time, with their own needs and habits.
2| You don’t have to breastfeed your twins at once.
When we say breastfeed twins at the same time. We don’t mean holding both babies to your chest and feeding them. But what we mean is for you to feed your first baby, then after 15 or 30 minutes, feed your other baby. Also, keep in mind to switch breasts. This will ease your breastfeeding schedule, as it will help you establish a breastfeeding twins routine. Moreover, it will give you equal time to bond with both of your babies.
3| Keep switching when breastfeeding.
It is very important to keep switching breasts, and to balance using both. Not use one more than the other. If you breastfeed your baby using your right breast. Use the left one for your second baby. That is very important to keep your breasts at the same size.
4| Make yourself as comfortable as possible.
Some mums consider breastfeeding pillows too big. But as a mum of twins, and as your babies grow, you will rely more and more on your breastfeeding pillow. Especially when the duration of breastfeeding twins becomes longer. A twin breastfeeding pillow will help you avoid and reduce back pains, and it will keep you and your babies comfortable. In addition, it will help you keep your hands free to play with your other baby or ready book.
Breastfeeding twins can also be made easier with a breastfeeding chair. This is not a luxury, but it is a necessity to ensure you are breastfeeding your twins correctly. Without overwhelming your body.
5| Keep up a healthy diet for yourself.
As a breastfeeding mum, you need to make sure your diet is healthy and balanced. That is important to ensure your breast milk is filled with nutrients for your babies. Therefore, make sure to include foods that help lactating in your diet. First, you need to stay hydrated and drink a lot of water. Second, you need around 1000 milligrams of calcium per day. You might even need more when you are breastfeeding twins. Therefore, consult with your doctors to make sure your body is providing all the nourishment your twins need.
6| Use a breast pump.
Pumping breast milk is great and helpful when it comes to feeding twins. You might find it a lot of work at first. But during the first four months, using a breast pump will lift some of the load off your shoulders – in this case, your breasts. It will also prevent experiencing leakages. Furthermore, having frozen breastmilk allows others to feed the twins if you are busy or tired.
7| Take care of your breasts.
Breastfeeding twins isn’t necessarily painful. But it does take a bit of a toll on your breasts. Therefore, you must take care of them by using creams for sore nipples and cracked skin. Also, breast shields can help prevent nipple trauma and will support your lactation.
8| Consider mixed feeding: breast milk & formula.
Breastfeeding and breast milk are very important for newborn babies. But when you have twins, the stress and tension can negatively affect your milk production. Also, your babies will need more nourishment as they grow. And relying solely on breast milk might not be the way to go. Therefore, including formula in your baby’s feedings can be very helpful. It is a great plan B, especially if breastfeeding was not an option for one of both of your babies.
9| Don’t stress or overwhelm yourself.
Stress and a tired body will prevent you from breastfeeding twins as you want or should. Therefore, make sure you put a plan and stick to it. This will help you keep breastfeeding your twins under control. Do not feel guilty about using formula. Nor should you be about pumping milk and asking for your husband or nanny to help feed your twins. Try your best to stay relaxed so you and your twins could have the best of the best.
