Every baby is unique—they have their own personalities, their own ability to suck and latch. The same applies to twins (or multiples). It takes time to get to know your baby.
We recommend nursing one baby at a time to start so you get to know each baby separately. Some babies nurse intensely, have a distinct disposition and can therefore consume a great deal of breast milk in a short time. Other babies nurse gently and have a calmer disposition, which means that nursing may take longer.
Enough milk for several babies?
The breast adapts to the demand for milk. The more your baby nurses, the more milk you produce. Supply and demand. For many women, this means that they can produce enough breast milk for both babies.
However, it is a good idea to switch baby and breast during different feedings. One baby might stimulate milk supply more than the other. They work together to stimulate a greater supply of breast milk. You can also hand express/stimulate breast milk production before or after to boost milk supply later.
In the case of triplets (or more), your breast milk will probably not be enough to breastfeed exclusively. If you are expecting more than two babies, you will receive personal breastfeeding support.
Nursing two at a time—Recommendations
Place your baby at the breast, one baby at a time. You can try tandem nursing from the start if you like. There are various breastfeeding positions also for tandem nursing. Tandem nursing saves time but it does require practice. Keep in mind these four things: time, trust, patience, practice. Ask for support about breastfeeding two babies at the same time while you are in the maternity ward.
How to prepare
Place your cushions, nursing pillow or other cushions in position behind your back, under your arm, and sit up straight so that you do not put pressure on your back and neck.
Tip: In the beginning, have a designated place at home that has everything you need within reach.
