What are my feeding options with twins?

Understanding your feeding choices with twins

Finding out you are expecting twins can raise a lot of questions about feeding. You might wonder whether you can breastfeed two babies, how often they will feed and how you will ever have a free hand again.

It is completely normal to feel unsure. There is no single ‘right’ way to feed twins, triplets or more. Your health, your babies’ health, your support network and your own feelings all matter.

What does help is knowing your options and understanding that you do not have to choose just one. Many parents use a combination of methods at different stages and that is okay.

What to think about before choosing how to feed

Before birth, it can help to think about what matters most to you. You might feel strongly about breastfeeding. You might feel more drawn to formula feeding. You might be open to combining methods.

Twins and triplets are more likely to arrive early and more likely to need extra care. This does not mean you cannot breastfeed. It may mean that expressing milk is an important part of your early plan. Hospital staff can support you to start expressing and to feed your babies in special care if needed. (LINK TO feeding peer support)

Think about practical support too. Who can help you at home in the early weeks. Could a partner, family member or friend bring babies to you for feeds, wind them, change nappies or settle them afterwards. Feeding is a team effort, even if you are breastfeeding.

It is also helpful to know that feeding twins can take time to establish. Your babies may not feed in sync at first. You might try one approach and later decide to adjust it. None of this means you are doing anything wrong.

Feeding options with twins, triplets or more

Many parents of twins start with breastfeeding, either directly at the breast or by expressing. You can feed one baby at a time or both together, once you feel confident with positioning. Common positions include a double rugby hold, both babies laid along your body, or a mix that works for your body and theirs. A good feeding pillow or extra cushions can help you feel supported.

Some parents choose to express breast milk using a pump. You might do this because your babies are small, sleepy or in special care, or because you prefer to give bottles. You can express and bottle feed only, or mix this with some direct breastfeeding. Expressing can also let a partner take some feeds, which can be helpful overnight.

Combination feeding means using both breast milk and formula. This can look different for every family. You might breastfeed during the day and give formula at night. You might breastfeed one baby at the breast while the other has expressed milk or formula. You might offer formula for some feeds when you are tired or unwell.

For some families, full formula feeding feels like the best choice. This can still be a close, bonding experience. Holding your babies skin-to-skin, swapping sides, keeping feeds paced and responsive and sharing feeds with a partner can all help feeding feel special.

However you feed, you can choose whether to feed your twins together or separately. Feeding together can save time once you are confident with positioning. Feeding separately can feel calmer at first, especially while you and your babies are learning. You can move between the two depending on how you and your babies are that day. [LINK TO INF 41 - FINDING A FEEDING ROUTINE THAT WORKS FOR YOUR TWINS].

Feeling confident about feeding your twins

Feeding twins is a big job, but you do not have to face it alone. Your midwife, health visitor, infant feeding team and multiples specialists can help you explore your options and support whatever you decide. Twins Trust also has feeding support [LINK To feeding support page] from other parents of twins, triplets or more who have been where you are.

Try to treat your feeding plan as something flexible. Start with what feels right for you and your babies now. Notice what helps and what feels hard. It is always possible to tweak things, add extra support or change your approach.

Most of all, remember that how you feed your babies is only one part of being a loving parent. Whether you breastfeed, express, use formula or combine different options, you are caring for two new little people at once. That is a huge achievement.

You know your body, your babies and your circumstances best. With good information, skilled support and permission to adapt your plans, you can find a feeding approach that nourishes your twins and works for your whole family.