As advances in IVF treatments and conception medications become more accessible, the incidence of multiple births has surged by 200%. By 2009, one in every 30 infants born was a twin. Given the well-documented advantages of breastfeeding, it raises the question: why is there a lack of resources specifically tailored for mothers nursing multiples?
As a parent to two sets of twins, I understand the urgent need for improved support for mothers with multiple births. My first pair of twins was among the 60% of twins born prematurely, often requiring time in the NICU. Premature birth presents unique challenges regarding nursing and feeding, and my twins were housed in separate NICU rooms. This separation hindered my ability to practice tandem nursing during their stay, which took a toll on my emotional well-being and my capability to nurse effectively. When we finally returned home, I felt inadequately prepared to tandem nurse, ultimately leading to an early end to my breastfeeding journey due to insufficient support and guidance.
Lactation consultant, Sarah Thompson, highlights that the lack of education on this issue is a significant reason why mothers of multiples often cease breastfeeding sooner than they initially planned. “The combination of misinformation and a lack of both emotional and physical support can lead twin mothers to stop breastfeeding prematurely,” Thompson notes. “They require extensive support, not just for breastfeeding but in all areas of motherhood.”
During my first twin nursing experience, I felt this absence of support acutely. With the exception of my lactation consultant, most people encouraged me to consider quitting nursing altogether, which was disheartening. While I respect the philosophy of “fed is best,” it wasn’t my personal goal. Feeling overwhelmed, I resorted to formula feeding, as many around me assumed it was unreasonable to expect to nurse twins.
When my second set of twins arrived, their brief 12-hour NICU stay allowed me to nurse them from the very first day. They quickly adapted to breastfeeding, and I found tandem nursing manageable with their small frames.
However, even that experience was fraught with challenges I wasn’t equipped to handle. As my milk supply increased, I would nurse both infants and still have enough to fill two nine-ounce bottles. According to Thompson, this overproduction is a typical response due to the additional breast tissue developed during pregnancy with multiples.
Instead of a blessing, my milk supply became overwhelming. I frequently woke up soaked, despite using nursing pads. To combat this, I ingeniously taped several diapers to the inside of my shirt to stay dry at night. Although I cherished those moments when I wasn’t exhausted, my days felt consumed by the task of producing milk.
One baby would latch well while the other would come unlatched, disrupting the flow of nursing. I attempted feeding them separately, but this led to relentless cluster feeding and sleep deprivation, with each baby establishing their own schedule. For those familiar with parenting multiples, you understand the sheer chaos that comes with differing schedules.
In stark contrast to single-baby nursing, breastfeeding multiples is uncomfortable and challenging. With a singleton, you can lay on your side and find a comfortable position, but with twins, safety prohibits nursing both lying down. In public, the scenario often involves one baby being fed while the other cries in someone else’s arms, creating a seemingly endless cycle. When I managed to nurse both in public, I felt like a spectacle, akin to a dairy cow.
Ultimately, I began shortening feedings to protect my mental health. “If nursing is affecting a mother’s mental well-being, it’s essential to reassess the situation,” Thompson advised. “Every mother’s circumstances are unique, and every drop counts. Combining breastfeeding with formula is a valid option.”
While I ensured my babies were fed, I started supplementing with stored breastmilk rather than nursing them exclusively, which contributed to a rapid decrease in my milk supply as they grew older.
Despite the presence of numerous breastfeeding support groups across the country, there are very few designed specifically for mothers of multiples. The resources available for singletons far outweigh those for twins. In fact, the hospital where I delivered was not adequately prepared to assist me in nursing twins effectively, leaving me feeling set up for failure from the start.
I genuinely believe that if I had been better informed and supported, my breastfeeding journey could have been more successful, albeit still challenging. With twin births on the rise, it is critical that we create better resources and support systems to help mothers of multiples achieve their breastfeeding goals.
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In summary, the unique challenges of breastfeeding multiples necessitate tailored support and resources to help mothers navigate their journeys more effectively. It is crucial to foster an environment where mothers of multiples can pursue their breastfeeding goals with adequate assistance and understanding.