Top tips for navigating vaccinations with twins and triplets

Planning baby vaccinations with multiples

From early on in your parenting journey, vaccinations become a regular part of life. They help protect your babies from serious illness and it’s important to keep them up-to-date.

When you have twins, triplets or more, the idea of vaccination appointments can feel a bit overwhelming. You might wonder how you’ll manage the practical side, how your babies will cope and what will make the day less stressful for you.

The good news is that you’ve got options. You can decide whether to have all your babies vaccinated in one appointment or spread things out. You can also ask for reasonable adjustments that help you manage the visit more comfortably.

Things to think about before vaccination day

Start by deciding whether you’d like all your babies vaccinated together or on different days. Many babies don’t have any major side effects. Some might feel a bit under the weather, be unsettled or have a mild temperature.

If everyone has injections at the same time, you could have two, three or more babies needing extra cuddles afterwards. Some parents prefer to get it all done in one visit. Others feel calmer if only one baby needs that extra support at a time. There’s no right answer. Choose what feels most manageable for you.

Think about the time of day too. A morning appointment can sometimes feel easier. You’ve got the rest of the day to keep an eye on your babies and offer comfort if they’re unsettled. If you’d prefer not to have vaccinations close to bedtime, it’s fine to ask if a different time is available.

Clothing really helps on the day. An easy-access babygrow or loose top makes it quicker to undress and redress each baby. It also helps them stay comfortable after the injections, especially if their legs or arms feel a bit tender.

When you book, let the receptionist know you have twins, triplets or more. Ask them to record this on your babies’ notes. This can help the team understand why you may need more time or extra support.

Having all your babies vaccinated in one appointment

If you decide to have all your babies vaccinated together, a bit of planning can make the appointment feel smoother. When you book, explain that you’ll be bringing all of your babies so the healthcare team can prepare. They may be able to book a longer slot or make sure there is space for buggies and bags.

If you can, bring another adult with you. A partner, friend or family member can help with: undressing and dressing babies, passing them to the nurse, and comforting them after their injections. If you don’t have anyone available, you can ask the surgery whether a member of staff might be able to help, although this is not always possible.

It can help to think about the order of vaccinations. You know your babies best. If one baby is usually calmer and easier to settle, you might choose for them to go first. If another is more sensitive, you may prefer them to go last so you can take your time afterwards.

If your babies tend to settle best with a particular person, plan for that adult to hold them straight after the injection. If you’re breastfeeding, feeding can sometimes be a great comfort. You might ask your helper to hold the baby during the injection so you can take them straight afterwards for a cuddle or a feed.

If you have three or more babies and only two adults, or twins and you’re going alone, one baby may need to be put down quite quickly after their injection. Preparing something soothing in advance can really help. You might find it useful to bring:

• A dummy or comforter for each baby
• A favourite toy or snack for older babies
• A blanket or muslin that smells of home

Looking after yourself and your babies after vaccinations

Once the injections are done, try to give yourselves a gentle rest of the day. Your babies might be a bit clingier than usual or need more cuddles and feeds. You may also feel tired or emotional, especially if the appointment was busy or stressful. That’s completely understandable.

Remember that you can always ask questions before, during and after the appointment. If you’re worried about how one of your babies is reacting, call your GP surgery, health visitor or the NHS 111 service for advice. It’s always ok to ask for reassurance.

Most importantly, remind yourself that you’re doing something really positive for your children’s health. Managing vaccinations with twins, triplets or more takes planning, patience and energy. However you choose to organise appointments, you’re allowed to shape things in a way that works for your family.