Parents share ‘tough NICU experience’ after birth of twins

A month in NICU

Spending almost a month in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with their newborn twins was “the most stressful time of their lives” for parents Yiannis and Mel. The early weeks were filled with worry, hospital visits, and unexpected challenges.

For many families, the NICU experience can feel overwhelming and uncertain. If your twins arrive early or need specialist care, you’re not alone. Twins Trust offers support and information to help you understand what NICU may be like, how to care for yourself during this time, and how to navigate the emotional and practical challenges that come with it.

Yiannis and Mel made around 100 trips to the hospital during the pregnancy and after their twins were born. Christos and Adonis were conceived via IVF and arrived in January 2025 at 34 weeks.

Yiannis, a performance analyst for the NHS and an award-winning GB Triathlete, said: "They were IVF babies, they were our fourth and final attempt on the NHS. We hadn't given up becoming parents but we said if it happens, it happens. I remember when we found out we were pregnant, we were in shock."

A key lesson from their experience is that it’s normal to feel both joy and fear during this time, especially with IVF. These mixed emotions are common, and it’s important to acknowledge them rather than feel guilty or confused.

‘Prepare for the worst’

Early scans revealed a growth difference between the twins, and the couple was referred to the Fetal Medicine Unit.

"We were scanned at 12 weeks. They said there was a 32% difference between the babies and to 'prepare for the worst' and that we might lose one of the twins," Yiannis recalled.

Regular scans followed, with doctors closely monitoring the babies.

"The smaller twin was always a few days behind in his growth. Once he reached 500g, they became more optimistic. The consultants told us to expect a NICU stay," Yiannis added.

The couple learned that focusing on what they knew in each appointment helped manage the uncertainty. Asking the medical team what to expect next, and taking it one step at a time, made the overwhelming situation more bearable.

Birth and a long NICU stay

When the twins were born at 34 weeks, Adonis weighed 2.8lb, and Christos weighed 4.3lb. Doctors explained that Adonis had velamentous cord insertion, a rare condition that can cause intrauterine growth restriction.

Adonis was connected to Mel’s membrane in an unusual position, which contributed to his restricted growth. After birth, Christos needed oxygen, and both babies were transferred to NICU for 23 days.

Yiannis said: "The experience in NICU was fantastic – the nurses were great. But no one really prepared us for what it was going to be like. You’re in and out, and the cost of driving back and forth adds up."

A valuable takeaway here is that NICU can be an emotional rollercoaster, and the practical realities – like travel, food, and time off work – can add to the stress. It’s essential to plan for these, accept help when it’s offered, and be open to the support of family, friends, and hospital staff.

Support during the stay

The couple was also supported by a hospital counsellor during their NICU stay. Yiannis said: "It was really stressful. It felt odd when we were back at home without the babies. We knew they were in good hands, but I didn’t feel attached to them yet. Mel felt guilty about leaving them in the hospital."

Emotional support is vital during NICU. Yiannis and Mel’s experience shows that it’s normal to have complex emotions, including guilt, anxiety, or even a lack of attachment while your babies are in hospital. Speaking openly with a counsellor or a trusted friend can help you process these feelings.

Reflecting on their NICU journey

Looking back, Yiannis said: "Our NICU experience was really tough. Mel lost nearly two months of maternity leave, and I felt sorry for her. They were long days in hospital, and you can only do so much. I just wanted them to come home."

For Yiannis and Mel, the hardest part was the unknown. They never expected to be in NICU for as long as they were, and it was difficult watching other babies go home much sooner. However, they were grateful that the twins were kept together during their stay, which provided some comfort.

Yiannis concluded: “Nothing can really prepare you. It’s the unknown that’s worrying. But you take it one day at a time, and you get through it.”