Breastfeeding Twins

I can remember the looks I received from my family and friends when I informed them that I intended to breastfeed my twins when they were born. The looks were of shock, disbelief or confusion. But I knew the decision was up to me and I intended to breastfeed my twins.

I already considered myself to have an advantage because I breastfed my two other sons Joey and Jimmy for the first six months of their precious lives. And when my twins, Henry and Michael were born I did successfully breastfeed them for the first seven months of their lives. In fact, I found it much easier than trying to bottle-feed two babies...

I suggest that you contact La Leche League before you deliver, for a wealth of knowledge on breastfeeding. They can be reached at 1-800-LA-LECHE. (Editor’s note: Don’t forget our breastfeeding message board, either...)

Breastfeeding twins requires the mother of twins to use a nursing pillow. This is a soft semi-circular device that she wears around her abdomen. This is used to that the mother of twins is able to breastfeed both babies at the same time. Breastfeeding both babies at the same time is imperative since newborns need to nurse 8-12 times each day. You do not want to have a baby latched to your breast 24 hours a day! Nursing pillows can be purchased through La Leche League. Do not forget to take this with you to the hospital.

When you are in the hospital delivering your angels, be sure to contact the hospital lactation consultant to assist you with breastfeeding for the first several feedings. These nurses (typically) are wonderful support persons to help you with problems common with breastfeeding, such as latch-on, sore nipples, engorgement, and/or frustration.

There are three positions to breastfeed twins using the nursing pillow:

The football position is where both babies are latched on to the breasts while their heads are resting on each side of the nursing pillow. Their feet are tucked under one underarm pointing toward your backside. Think of how you carry a football.

The cradle nursing position is where both babies are latched on to the breasts while their heads are resting on the nursing pillow and both babies’ feet are crossed over each other in front of you.

The combination football/cradle nursing position is where one twin is nursing in the football position and the other twin is nursing in the cradle position.

Try out each position and use the one that is most comfortable for you. I found the football position to be most comfortable for me.