You have just been told that you will be the proud mother of twins and now your desire to breastfeed has gone up in smoke? Rest assured: it is entirely possible to breastfeed twins.
Breastfeeding twins, yes it's possible
Indeed, several mothers have managed to breastfeed their twins without too much difficulty: with a little adaptation and technique, it is quite achievable.
The longer a child is allowed to breastfeed, the more milk is produced. This basic principle applies to only children, but also to twins. So, if you decrease the feedings, your milk production will also decrease. That's why new moms are advised to breastfeed early, and often, right after birth. In the same vein, it is preferable to avoid the use of bottles or pacifiers: they will reduce the number of feedings of your little ones and, at the same time, your milk production.
Of course, not all births are fairy tales and you may not be able to breastfeed right after giving birth for X reasons. You should not put a cross on breastfeeding for all that, but you will have to redouble your perseverance. If this is your case, startto express your milk as soon as possible: every two or three hours a day, as well as at night, to avoid engorgement.
Remember the importance of a balanced diet. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables and, above all, drink lots and lots of water. Breastfeeding twins obviously requires perseverance and, to avoid fatigue, try to breastfeed in a lying position and sleep when your babies are sleeping.
Simultaneous breastfeeding
There are several positions that will allow you to breastfeed both of your children at the same time. Indeed, you will save a lot of time and effort if you embrace simultaneous breastfeeding, but some mothers still prefer individual breastfeeding. It's up to you to test and see.
The twins' breastfeeding position is very important: it will optimize drinking and prevent injuries. Use rolled up towels or nursing pillows to get enough support under your arms. Each baby should be at the level of the nipples, so you don't have to lean into them and babies don't have to stretch to reach the breast.
Let the first baby grasp the nipple, making sure he has taken a good part of the areola. When it is properly installed, in a comfortable position, place the second. At first you will probably need help, but over time you willfind tricks and become more comfortable handling both babies.
Feedings lasting 30 minutes or more are not unusual, and newborns can feed as often as every two hours.
Switch sides
Some women schedule feedings: for example, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., baby A will be on the right breast, and baby B, on the left. From 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., baby A passes on the left, and baby B, on the right. And so on. Other women prefer to change just once a day, usually at the morning feed. However, if your children do not have the same needs and do not drink the same quantities, this technique could cause you to become engorged. It would therefore be better for you to alternate several times a day. Also, switching babies more often ensures that they receive balanced visual stimulation, as they look at you from both directions.
Simultaneous breastfeeding positions
- Double or Hug Football: Place each baby with the head on your lap and the legs under your arms. Use several pillows so that each baby is at the height of your breasts. Make sure the baby does not push on the back of the seat with his feet when you approach him so that he grabs the nipple. If this happens, lift her legs up behind you so that her buttocks rest on the backrest.
- Double Cradle (Crossover): Place each baby on their side with their whole body facing you and their legsstretching up your abdomen. Their head should rest in the crook of your arms. Their backs are supported by your forearms, and you can hold their buttocks or upper thighs in your hand. Each baby's ear, shoulder and hip should form a straight line. Their head should not be arched back or turned sideways, but in line with their body. The babies' legs cross in the front.
- Combination of madonna and football positions: The first baby is installed in the madonna position, his head resting in the crook of his mother's arm. The second baby's head rests on the first baby's abdomen, while its feet extend under its mother's arm.
- Lying Position: The mother is lying almost flat on her back, with two pillows under her head. The babies' heads are level with the mother's breasts and their knees touch on her thigh.
Enough milk?
Of course you're worried: but is my milk supply enough to feed two children? To find out, rely on the diapers. If each of your babies wets six to eight diapers a day, and feeds frequently (eight to twelve times each in a 24-hour period), you can have peace of mind that they are getting enough milk. A baby who drinks enough should pass two to five stools a day during the first weeks of life, and shouldtake about 500 g (i.e. 1 pound) per month. If your babies don't seem to be getting enough milk, that doesn't necessarily mean you're not producing enough. The problem could be related to different factors such as the latch, position during feedings or a growth spurt . To find out for sure, you can consult a he alth professional or contact a breastfeeding sponsor.
