Breastfeeding twins (or more!) can be both an incredibly rewarding and challenging experience. As a mom of multiples, you’re likely juggling a lot of new routines and responsibilities, and breastfeeding is no exception. While the early weeks can provide a big learning curve, with time and practice, breastfeeding multiples will get easier. This guide is here to offer you practical tips and warm encouragement as you begin the adventure of breastfeeding your babies.

Get Comfortable with Different Positions

Finding the right breastfeeding position is key, especially when feeding more than one baby. Here are a few positions that many moms of multiples find helpful:

The Football Hold

You hold one baby on each side of you, tucked under your arms (like a football), with their heads at the breast. This is a great position if you need to feed both babies at the same time.

The Cross-Cradle Hold

This is a more traditional position where you hold one baby across your lap, supporting their head with one arm while feeding them with the other breast. This can be used to feed each baby separately or in combination with another position, like the football hold.

Laid Back Position

One or both babies can latch while you lie back, either criss-crossing over your belly or lying to your sides. Use pillows to support your arms, which allows you to rest your whole body while breastfeeding.

Try Tandem Breastfeeding

Tandem means feeding both babies at the same time. This can save you time and allow you to relax while breastfeeding. It might feel a little awkward at first, but with practice, you'll get the hang of it. A comfortable nursing pillow designed for multiples can help with positioning.

Pro Tip: When one baby wakes for a feeding, try waking the other baby as well. This can help keep both babies on a similar feeding routine, making feedings more manageable and less time-consuming for you.

Offer Both Breasts

It’s normal for all babies to get sleepy as your breast empties and the flow of milk slows down. But that doesn’t mean the feeding is over or that your baby has had enough milk. When your baby begins to get sleepy and is no longer regularly swallowing, it’s a good time to offer a burp and diaper change, then switch breasts. Offering both babies, both breasts at most feedings can help ensure that you’ll make plenty of milk.

Practice Rooming-In

Keeping your infants in your room is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for at least the first 6 months of life for breastfeeding success and reducing SIDS risk. Having your babies within arms reach means easier access for breastfeeding during the night providing them essential calories and yourself the stimulation necessary for a strong milk supply.

Confidence Builders when Breastfeeding Multiples

Breastfeeding multiples can bring its own set of challenges. But with patience, good information, and support, most issues can be improved or resolved.

Keep Track of Feedings

Newborns feed frequently, at least 8–12 times per day. It can be hard to remember which infant fed last, and from which breast! Keep track of feedings using a simple notebook or an app. This will help ensure both babies are getting enough milk and that you're keeping your milk supply balanced.

Monitor Wet and Dirty Diapers

What goes in, must come out! By days 4–5, you can expect at least 6 wet and 3 yellow, seedy dirty diapers each day. If your babies are having plenty of wet and dirty diapers they are likely getting enough milk. 

Supplement, if Needed

If supplementation becomes necessary, you can work closely with your healthcare provider and lactation consultant to create a plan that's best for you and your babies. They can offer guidance on how to safely supplement with formula or expressed milk while also helping you develop strategies to boost your milk supply. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support early on—it’s okay to ask for help when you need it, and you don't have to do it alone. 

What If Your Babies Come Early?

If your babies are born premature or need to spend time in the NICU, it can be an emotional and exhausting experience. Premature babies often need support with feedings, and you may need to get started pumping until they’re strong enough to breastfeed directly.

While this may not be the birth experience you envisioned, it’s important to know that breastfeeding is still possible for preterm babies, and your milk provides essential nutrition and vital immune support. Here are a few things to keep in mind when navigating breastfeeding for preterm babies or babies in the NICU:

Start Pumping Early

If your babies are unable to breastfeed right away, it’s important to begin pumping early to establish your milk supply. Even if they can’t latch yet, hand expression and pumping help stimulate milk production and ensure your breast milk is available when they’re ready.

Work with the NICU Team

The NICU staff, including lactation consultants, are there to support you. They can help you learn how to pump effectively, assist with feeding plans, and work with you to transition your babies from alternative feeding methods to breastfeeding as they grow stronger.

Importance of Skin-to-Skin

Even if your babies are receiving milk through a feeding tube or bottle in the NICU, try to offer skin-to-skin contact or “kangaroo care” as often as possible. This helps to regulate their temperature, breathing, and heart rate, while encouraging bonding and preparing for breastfeeding when they’re ready.

Be Patient and Flexible

It can feel overwhelming when your babies are in the NICU. NICU stays often mean your babies have unique feeding needs, and transitioning to breastfeeding may take time. Every baby is different, and some may take longer to breastfeed effectively. Focus on small milestones—like having your babies latch for the first time, achieving a comfortable latch, or even partial breastfeeding. With time and support, breastfeeding will likely become easier.

Take Care of Yourself

Breastfeeding multiples is double the time and work, and it's easy to forget about your own needs. Rest whenever you can and sleep when your little ones sleep, especially in the first few months. Breastfeeding can make you thirsty, so keep a water bottle nearby to drink often. A balanced diet of healthy, nourishing, and delicious foods will support your appetite, help maintain your energy, and support your milk supply.

This is a full-time job, so don’t hesitate to ask for support. Surround yourself with a strong team—whether it’s your partner, family or friends. Professional help, like a postpartum doula or cleaning service, may be worth the temporary investment. Support is essential to feeling confident and successful on your breastfeeding journey. Working with a lactation consultant can provide invaluable support in helping you with latch issues, positioning, milk supply, or any concerns you might have about feeding your babies.

Key Takeaways

  • Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you and your little ones.

  • When one baby wakes to feed, wake the second baby up too. 

  • Tandem feeding can save time and make feedings easier.

  • Keep track of feedings, and wet and dirty diapers. 

  • Continue pumping until you are confident your babies are breastfeeding well.

  • Take care of yourself by getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating well.

  • Ask for support from family, friends, and your lactation consultant.

  • Be patient—with practice, breastfeeding multiples will become easier.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.