BREASTFEEDING multiple babies It is true that breastfeeding 2 or more You also may be wondering how much time babies—especially if they are premature or breastfeeding will take and whether bottle come home from the hospital at different feedings would be more convenient with times—is not like breastfeeding 1 full-term such a hectic caregiving schedule. Again, the infant. You need information that is specific experiences of others are reassuring. to multiples so you can make the right Many parents of twins report that feeding decisions and get off to the best breastfeeding takes less time than possible start. preparing bottles and formula, especially This section summarizes the latest once they have mastered the technique of research and provides practical feeding both babies at once. Parents with suggestions for breastfeeding more than 1 more than 2 babies often—but not always— baby. You can use it in conjunction with combine some feedings at the breast with other resources that provide general bottle feedings of expressed milk or formula. information for breastfeeding 1 infant, like Many of these mothers say they had enough the first part of this booklet. You should milk for all their babies, but they needed discuss ideas with your family and health some help giving the feedings. care professionals so you can choose a If you are still undecided about breastfeeding plan that will work for you and breastfeeding, consider giving it a try. If you your babies. decide later that you don’t want to continue If you are still undecided breastfeeding, you can discuss how to DECIDING TO BREASTFEED The results of some recent studies may about breastfeeding, proceed with your baby’s healthcare Like most parents, you would like for your reassure you. For example, there are consider giving it a try professional. Feedings of your milk, even for babies to receive your milk because you are research reports about mothers who a short time, will provide your babies with aware of the special health benefits of exclusively breastfed twins and triplets important health benefits. breastfeeding. However, you may wonder through the first months of life. Although whether you can produce enough milk—or these women fed very frequently throughout whether it will be nutrient-rich enough—to the day, they were able to produce plenty of In fact, it is important to arrange for help support the growth of 2 or more babies. milk for their 2 or 3 infants. One report with all your other chores, so you can spend These common concerns about described the experience of a mother who the time that will be needed to breastfeed or breastfeeding multiples are often shared by had enough milk for quadruplets! So, with pump to establish your milk supply. You will friends, family, and even some health the right information and assistance, it is be very busy after your babies are born, but it care professionals. usually possible to breastfeed more is important to focus on getting your than 1 baby. breastfeeding off to a good start in the first few weeks. 52 53