Can you breastfeed twins? Everything you need to know

Can you breastfeed twins successfully?

Yes, you really can breastfeed twins. Many parents do, in lots of different ways and your body is designed to respond to two babies. With good information, practical help and time to learn, breastfeeding twins can become easier and even enjoyable.

Breastmilk gives your babies tailor-made nutrition and protection against infections, which is especially important if they are born a little early. It is always ready, at the right temperature and brings close skin contact that helps with bonding and emotional wellbeing.

Much of the advice for twins also helps parents of triplets or more, but this article focuses on what you need to know when you are feeding two babies.

What to expect in the early weeks with twins

Twins are more likely to arrive early or need a short stay in a neonatal unit. If your babies go to special care, or you cannot hold them straight away, you can still breastfeed. Ask about skin-to-skin contact as soon as it is safe. Resting your babies on your bare chest, or your partner’s, helps them feel calm, aids bonding, keeps them warm and encourages them to start feeding.

Your breasts begin making colostrum in pregnancy. This thick, golden milk is packed with antibodies and your babies only need small amounts at first. After about three to four days, your milk changes and increases in volume. Your breasts may feel heavy, full and warm. Feeding or expressing often usually eases any discomfort.

Milk supply works on a simple idea: demand and supply. The more often milk is taken from your breasts, the more milk you make. In the early weeks, try to feed responsively, even if you hope to move towards a routine later. Let your babies guide you.

Look for early hunger cues such as stirring, wriggling, opening their mouths, turning their heads or sucking their hands. Offering the breast at this stage is usually easier than waiting for crying, when babies may struggle to latch.

You will start to learn what is normal for each baby. One may feed faster, one may be sleepier and that is fine.

Different ways to feed two babies

There is no single ‘right’ way to breastfeed twins. You can feed one baby at a time, both together, or mix and match depending on the day.

Feeding one at a time can be helpful in the early days while you are learning to latch. You can focus on positioning, enjoy one-to-one time and switch babies between breasts so both sides are well stimulated. Many parents prefer this approach when out and about.

Tandem feeding, where both babies feed at the same time, can save time and sometimes helps you encourage similar feeding and sleeping patterns. Common positions include the underarm or rugby hold, where both babies are tucked under your arms, a parallel hold across your chest, or a laid-back position with both resting on your body. Supportive cushions or plenty of pillows can make a big difference to your comfort.

Babies do not always co-operate with our plans. Some families feed together during the day and separately at night, or the other way round. You can change what you do as your confidence grows and your babies change.

Some parents choose partial breastfeeding, combining breastfeeds with expressed breastmilk or infant formula. If you hope to do this, it usually helps to feed or express at least eight times in 24 hours in the early weeks, to build a solid milk supply before reducing feeds. Any amount of breastmilk is valuable.

Feeling confident and finding support with breastfeeding twins

Without a bottle to check, it is normal to worry about whether your twins are getting enough milk. Signs that things are going well include frequent feeds, at least four to six wet nappies a day after the first few days, regular soft yellow poos and steady weight gain over time. Each baby will have their own pattern, so talk to your midwife or health visitor if you are unsure.

You do not have to do this alone. Partners, family and friends can make a big difference by bringing drinks and snacks, cooking meals, settling babies after feeds, taking them for walks and looking after older children so you can rest.

Many parents say that the early weeks felt intense, then one day breastfeeding suddenly became easier and they were glad they kept going.

If you are struggling with pain, latching or exhaustion, ask for help early. You can speak to your midwife, health visitor, a breastfeeding counsellor or a local breastfeeding group. Twins Trust also has breastfeeding peer supporters (LINK) who are parents of multiples and can offer information and encouragement by phone, text or email.

Breastfeeding twins is a big undertaking, but you do not have to aim for perfection. Whether you breastfeed for a short time, mix feeds, or continue for many months, you are doing something important for your babies. Focus on what works for you and your family and remember that your wellbeing matters too.