From IVF to twin girls: Will's honest dad's-eye view

Becoming a twin dad was a hugely emotional journey for Will, following four attempts at IVF with his wife.

He became a dad on 21 February 2018, when his twin girls were born at 36 weeks. This was the final try, and it had taken a huge emotional, physical and financial toll. When the twins arrived, the relief was enormous, mixed with the kind of nervous anticipation that can sit right alongside joy.

Leaving hospital, Will expected the newborn stage to feel overwhelming. Instead, he was surprised by how quickly they found a workable rhythm. The routine wasn’t always easy, but it felt straightforward in a way that gave him confidence. In those early days, he learned that calm doesn’t always come from having all the answers. Sometimes it comes from taking the next feed, the next nap, the next nappy, and letting small wins count.

Time is precious, so protect the small moments

Will spoke about how life changed when he became a dad to twins: “My career had to adapt to my new role as a parent too. Previously, I would come and go from the office as I chose or go for a late dinner with friends, or perhaps an impromptu business trip - it went from ‘no problem’ to a ‘sorry, I can’t’.

“My advice is to manage your own time well; carving out 10 minutes in the day for a hot cup of coffee makes all the difference to your sanity on some days. Time is a precious resource – how should I spend the next 30 minutes, playing with my wonderful children or doing some household chores?

“Being a dad to twins has profoundly deepened my appreciation for the struggles and perspectives that women endure. Witnessing the emotional anguish of failed IVF and experiencing the overwhelming joy of finally achieving pregnancy, I have come to recognise the remarkable strength and resilience of women.”

Empathy strengthens your partnership

Twin parenting can turn you into excellent co-workers, but you’re still partners too. Will has learned the value of checking in, sharing the invisible load, and remembering that being “a team” includes emotional care, not just logistics.

He added: “My wife stopped working during pregnancy and only recently picked up her career. She didn’t work in six years, but not through choice. When she returned to work, I truly appreciated the huge undertaking it is to manage a home. My advice to dads on this part is show some empathy to what your partner is going through; try not to neglect your relationship.

“My twins have certainly brought out my own inner child, and time with them often provides a mental break for me. When times are tough, I must remember this—it’s great to play!

“As for my gorgeous children, I have many hopes and wishes for them: I’d like them to know inner peace and to have the strength and resilience to tackle what life throws at them. Granted, this is perhaps a slightly romanticised dream for the future, but if my kids can have big dreams, why can’t I?.”