Multiple infants and breast-feeding
Most mothers can produce enough milk to breast-feed two or more babies. If you have twins or triplets, breast-feeding becomes more physically and emotionally challenging. However, with support and guidance, you can be successful.
Breast-feeding fosters the bond between you and each baby. Since multiples often are born prematurely, the protective factors (antibodies) in breast milk are especially important for them.
Get assistance from a health professional, a breast-feeding specialist (lactation specialist), or another person with expertise in breast-feeding multiple-birth babies. Special techniques often are recommended for multiples. These may include:
- Feeding the babies one at a time until they learn to latch on to the breast.
- Feeding two infants at the same time after you are comfortable feeding one at a time. The cradle hold
or the football hold
- Pumping breast milk after your milk supply is established so that others can help you feed the babies.
- Supplementing breast milk feedings with formula.
Also, consider the following issues:
- Drink at least eight 8 fl oz (237 ml) glasses of liquid per day, and eat at least 500 extra calories per day.
- Consider joining a support group for mothers who breast-feed multiples. La Leche League or an organization such as the Mothers of Twins Club (MOTC) may have support groups that can help.
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: July 24, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Gregory A L Davies, MD, FRCSC, FACOG - Maternal-Fetal Medicine | |
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