Breastfeeding twins: finding the right support after birth

Lucy always envisioned herself breastfeeding her twins, but her reality turned out to be much more complicated than she had expected. Though she had done her research and prepared for the journey, the support she needed after the birth wasn’t as clear-cut. Lucy’s story highlights a key lesson: no matter how much you prepare, having the right support in place is crucial once your babies arrive. Twins Trust can offer invaluable assistance, especially when things don't go as planned, whether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding, or combining both.

After giving birth at 37 weeks, Lucy faced unexpected complications. Though her pregnancy and birth were otherwise straightforward, she was given an oxytocin drip to prevent bleeding, which left her vomiting for the first few hours after birth. As a result, she missed the opportunity for immediate skin-to-skin contact with her babies. Her son was taken to neonatal care, and the twins were separated across different hospital floors. Despite the challenges, Lucy had prepared in advance by expressing colostrum, which was fed to her babies via syringe during her initial recovery. This early preparation proved invaluable in the face of unexpected obstacles.

The reality of feeding two babies

Once Lucy was able to focus on feeding, the reality of breastfeeding two newborns set in. She found herself facing a familiar challenge for many parents of multiples: two tiny mouths and the pressure of getting it right. The first few days were tough as her babies struggled to latch, and Lucy had to rely on syringe feeding and cup feeding. Although these methods felt time-consuming and messy, they were necessary steps to ensure her twins were fed while she built her confidence. With the support of her midwives and a lactation consultant, Lucy gradually felt more at ease.

The early weeks at home were intense, with Lucy juggling breastfeeding, expressing milk, and supplementing with formula. She was effectively triple feeding every three hours, a tiring routine that left little room for rest. But despite the exhaustion, Lucy learned to rely on the help of her partner and support network, including meal preparation and household chores. This period highlighted the importance of having practical help at home when caring for newborn twins. Lucy’s story underscores that organising help—whether through meal deliveries or family support—can make all the difference when adjusting to life with multiples.

Gaining confidence

As the weeks passed, Lucy’s confidence grew. Her babies began to latch more reliably, and she started tandem feeding. This allowed her to save time and feel more efficient in her feeding routine. As she became more comfortable, Lucy began to think about reintroducing some normalcy into her life, such as leaving the house and reconnecting with other parents. This shift in mindset was key to her emotional well-being, as she was able to balance the demands of motherhood with self-care and social connections.

Another important lesson Lucy learned was the importance of adjusting her approach as the twins grew. When her babies were ready, she introduced solids, dealt with challenges like mastitis, and reduced breastfeeding sessions. Despite the pressure to stop earlier, Lucy chose to continue breastfeeding, ultimately reducing feeds to once or twice a day as her twins began preschool. This decision to listen to her own needs and adapt to her family’s circumstances highlights the importance of flexibility and self-compassion in parenting.

Seeking support

One of the most valuable lessons Lucy shares is the importance of seeking support and being proactive. Before her twins arrived, Lucy made sure to research breastfeeding support options, but she recommends others do this as early as possible. “Seek out local breastfeeding support groups or baby cafes in your area,” she advises. Finding out what support your local hospital offers and knowing where to turn for help can make a significant difference once your babies are born.

Lucy’s experience also highlights the support available through Twins Trust. As an NCT-trained breastfeeding peer supporter, she helped other parents navigate their feeding journeys through one-on-one support, webinars, and online communities. The support can help alleviate the stress of feeding multiples and provide practical guidance when things don’t go according to plan. Lucy’s advice is clear: don’t wait to seek help, and reach out to those who understand your unique challenges.

Through her journey, Lucy learned that breastfeeding twins is not a linear process. It requires flexibility, patience, and a willingness to ask for help. By building a solid support network and adapting to her babies’ needs, Lucy was able to create a feeding routine that worked for her family, ultimately making the experience more manageable and rewarding.