Breast feeding twins

Getting started
Having twins does not mean you will have a doubly hard time feeding your babies. But you may find it easier to nurse them separately at first. This way you can perfect your feeding position and check both babies are latching on well. Once you are up and running, encouraging your babies to feed together will help you produce more milk. It will also save time.

Secrets of successful feeding

• Using a pillow to support you will raise your babies up to your breasts for a comfortable feed. It will also help you vary your nursing positions, so that you can rotate from the cradle hold (baby across your chest) to the rugby hold (baby along your side) or even combine the two.
• Consider buying a v-shaped feeding pillow designed especially for twins. It provides extra space and support for your babies and frees up your hands for winding and re-positioning.
• Alternate breasts with each feed especially if one twin is a stronger feeder. It helps produce equal amounts of milk in both breasts and reduces the risk of blocked ducts and engorgement. If you cannot remember who fed on which breast last, switch every 24 hours instead.
• Be flexible. Feeding your twins together makes the best use of your precious time but your babies are individuals. One might like a snack every 20 minutes, the other to feast every few hours. Find the pattern that works for you all. Some mums let their hungrier baby dictate feeding times. Others feed on demand during the day and follow a routine during the night.
• Give yourself a break. Expressing some milk after each feed lets your partner give the twins a bottle and allows you time out.
• Sneak some sleep. All that feeding requires plenty of energy, so try to sleep when your babies sleep. Or at least put your feet up.

Double the help
All new mums need help, but you need twice as much. Line it up before the birth. You will have more than enough to organise once your babies are here.

Family and friends
They may not be able to breast feed your babies but family and friends can ease the load. Let your partner take the twins for a walk while you take a bath. Have your mum cook you a wholesome meal, or ask a friend to help out with errands.

Your nutritional requirements
It is really important to have a healthy diet whilst breast feeding, click here for more information.

Groups
There are many organisations that offer support and advice, including TAMBA, the Twins and Multiple Birth Association.  The Multiple Births Foundation also provides breast feeding leaflets.