Pregnancy:

~You may have to stop work earlier than expected and be advised to stay close to home.

~Expectant mothers of multiples are often put on bed rest.

~Multiples have a tendency to arrive premature, about half of all twins arrive before the end of 37 weeks and triplets before 35 weeks.

~Plan to take childbirth classes between the 4th and 6th month.  Ask about special classes for multiples.  You should also have a good idea of what equipment and clothing you will need at this time.

~Ask your doctor about additional vitamins and minerals.

When the Babies Come Home

~Plan to have help when the babies arrive home.

~Maintaining a schedule and a routine are important.  Diaper, feed and bathe babies at the same time whenever possible.

~Establish priorities:  feeding, sleeping, bathing.

~Try to rest while babies sleep.

~Most babies can sleep comfortably in the same bed for the first several months or longer.

~You should purchase diapers, wipes and other supplies in large quantity.

~Treat each baby as an individual.

~Take pictures of each baby.  Be sure to write his/her name on the back.

~Color-coding is helpful when choosing babies clothing, bottles, and pacifiers as these make identification easier.

~Accept help from family and friends, especially the first year.

~Delegate chores and assign tasks to those who offer.  What friends and family can do to help: Bring food when they visit. Change babies. Watch babies while you nap, shower, take a walk. Offer to do laundry or dishes. Vacuum or pick up. Prepare lunch or dinner.

Leaving the House with the Babies

~An occasional walk or short trip may help to thwart cabin fever.

~Never leave home without your stroller.  This is especially important when driving alone.

~When purchasing a stroller, consider where you will be using it most.

~Talking with other mothers of multiples will be helpful when purchasing any equipment.

~ Stroller options are Side by side, front to back/tandem, and jogging strollers.  Side by side strollers are often lighter, but also the widest.  You should be able to go in handicap accessible places.  Other options are Jogging and Front to Back strollers. The alignment can be difficult on some front to back models as well as attaching two single strollers.  Jogging Strollers and some Front to Back models can be very heavy.

~Be prepared for the curiosity you will generate when taking your new multiples out allow extra time for LOTS of questions!

Breast-feeding:

~A hospital grade breast pump may be vital for expressing and storing milk until babies can latch on and are strong enough to nurse.

~Many insurance policies will cover breast pump rental.

~Once nursing is established, we recommend learning to position both babies for nursing at the same time.

~Try a double nursing pillow.  It helps to nurse both babies at once, hands free!