Parents of twins, triplets or more

If you're expecting a multiple birth you may be asking yourself:

• how will we cope?
• how will we manage a daily routine with more than one baby?
• can I breastfeed more than one baby?

Helpful tips

• Don't be afraid to ask for help!
• Start thinking about your babies as individuals so you can get to know them. 
  Acknowledge your feelings – talk to your partner, family and friends about how you are feeling.
• Try and establish a daily routine and sleep pattern for your babies. If possible get your babies to sleep at the same time.
• Consider letting your babies sleep together until they are three months old – twins will often touch or hug one another in bed and this might help them fall asleep.
• Take care of yourself – sleep when they sleep, keep a healthy diet, and try to get out of the house regularly.
• Join a support group so that you can talk with other mums and dads with the same issues.
• Plan your equipment needs – buggies, cots, nappies, etc. Often local multiple birth clubs have buy and hire and give-away services for baby clothes, double buggies, cots etc.
• Freeze some meals in advance for times when you need them after the birth – think about getting a deep freeze if you don't already have one.
• If people offer to help, give them a specific task e.g. looking after the babies, helping out with the housework or doing the grocery shopping.
• If you have any worries talk to your midwife or doctor.