Breastfeeding for Two (Twins)
By Laura Silvas, RN IBCLC
Congrats! It's twins! Double the cute, double the cuddles, and double the feedings. Even if you've had a successful breastfeeding journey in the past, it's not uncommon to find yourself overwhelmed over breastfeeding two babies. Or maybe you've never breastfed before and want to be successful with both sweet babes. Scheduling and tracking breastfeeding twins can seem overwhelming in the beginning. You may have questions like: Who do I feed first? Do I feed them both at the same time? What if one doesn't latch? Read on to learn about what it takes to breastfeed twins.
How Should I Feed Twins?
There are multiple ways to feed your babies. Breastfed infants eat more often than formula-fed babies, and as a basic rule of nursing, feeding on demand is critical for success. Although your babies are twins, they may not both be hungry simultaneously. Some mothers choose to feed one baby at a time. However, it may be necessary to feed both at once if they display hunger cues. Hunger cues include licking their lips, rooting, bringing their hands to their mouth, etc. Remember, crying is a late sign of hunger and can lead to difficulty latching.
While feeding one infant at a time can quickly turn into a day filled only with breastfeeding, another option is if you latch one twin and then attempt to latch the other straight afterward. Another option is to pump one side while breastfeeding one baby. Or, pump both sides and feed them both breastmilk bottles. Breastmilk doesn't lose its magic just because it isn't coming from the breast, and if you need a break, don't beat yourself up about feeding them from bottles. When transitioning from the bottle to the breast, or vice versa, hold the bottle horizontally and attempt to use an artificial nipple that is the same shape as your breast nipple. This technique will slow down the flow and force your babies to suck so they don't struggle with nipple confusion when back at the breast.
Should I switch sides?
Switching sides each time you nurse your twins is crucial for several reasons. If you've ever breastfed before or pumped, you may have noticed you have a "slacker boob," which produces less breast milk. Everyone does, and it is no cause for concern. Switching which side each twin eats on at each session ensures that each breast is emptied fully at each session. Also, if one infant latches better than their sibling (which is also completely normal), this may help increase the supply on the opposite breast. However you decide to feed your infants, there is no wrong or right way.
Should I keep track of my babies’ feeding?
Keeping track of when each infant feeds and for how long will give you an idea of whether they are getting enough milk. This information is also helpful for any doctor or lactation consultant appointments. Using an app is an easy way to track feedings, the number of wet or soiled diapers, weight gain/loss, and any other concerns. (Be on the lookout for our LEVA app coming soon ;))
Positioning
Most mothers agree that breastfeeding twins in the "football" hold on each side is easiest. Their heads are aligned with your breast in this position, with their bodies tucked under your arms.
Nursing pillows are also extremely helpful in supporting you and your babies during nursing sessions. Remember to bring the babies to the breasts, not your breasts to your babies. Curling over your babies will quickly hurt your back and make your session uncomfortable. The more relaxed you are, the better the session and your letdown will be.
Another position you can try with your nursing infants is to try one baby in a football hold and the other in a cross-cradle position. This position is beneficial in changing the direction the breast is emptied, reducing any clogged ducts or mastitis concerns. I suggest trying this if your baby seems to be struggling to latch. Sometimes, certain positions work better for the baby. Click here to learn more about different positions for your baby.
How do I ensure my babies get enough milk?
Your body creates milk based on supply and demand, so the more you empty your breast, the more milk your breasts produce. However, the opposite is true as well. Skipped feedings will result in decreased supply. Frequent feeding according to your babies' hunger cues and regular pumping will help to stabilize milk production. Skin-to-skin contact with your sweet babies will also play a massive role in your breastfeeding journey. This bonding time increases supply, but it also stabilizes the babies' body temperature and heart rate and helps the infants awaken to the smell of the milk. If you choose or need to supplement with formula, ensure that you do so after emptying the breast to keep up the supply and demand process. If you are concerned about the amount of milk you're producing, contact a lactation consult, who will be able to address any breastfeeding problems. These may include fixing a latch and allowing the infant to obtain more milk or how to drain the breast properly.
How many calories should I be getting?
Breastfeeding one infant alone takes an extra 500 calories a day. You can do the math for feeding two - it requires an extra 1000 calories daily. Ensuring proper maternal hydration and caloric intake plays a huge part in milk production. Eating healthy, nutrient-rich foods and various foods helps fuel your body and introduce new flavors into your breast milk.
Conclusion
Each baby is different, so be patient even if you had a great and easy time or a challenging journey with previous children. You and your babies are learning to navigate the journey of feeding twins. Be proud of yourself for growing not only one but two humans. Reach out for help if you aren't sure where to start. Ask for assistance in the hospital before discharge to evaluate your babies' latch, and make sure you know how to set up your pump. If your infants are in the NICU, check out our article on breastfeeding your preterm infant. You're not alone, and you can do this!
Remember, our Leva team is always on standby and ready to help, and we applaud you, mama.
