- You can designate one breast for one baby (just make sure that each breast is emptied at the end of each feeding session), alternate breasts between babies each feeding session (which helps keep breasts even), alternate breasts between babies every other feeding session, or alternate breasts between babies each day.
- Twins can be breastfed simultaneously (which is a big time-saver) or separately.
- With triplets, two babies can feed simultaneously and the third can be offered both breasts or given a bottle.
- When feeding two babies simultaneously, it may be helpful to position the more difficult feeder first and establish a good latch prior to positioning the next baby.
- Use pillows or nursing pillows for support. There are nursing pillows available for twins (ex: EZ-2-Nurse, The Nursing Nest).
- Most of the same positions for breastfeeding a single baby can be used to feed twins with some slight modifications.
The Double Football Hold (The Double Clutch Hold)
Place each baby in the football hold at your side (one on each side).
Place each baby in the football hold at your side (one on each side).
The Cross-Cradle Hold
Each baby is placed in the cradle-hold with one baby pressed against you (tummy-to-tummy) and the other pressed against the sibling (tummy-to-back).
A Combination of the Football Hold and Cradle Hold
Place the first baby in the cradle hold across your body and the other baby in the football hold.
The Parallel Hold
The first baby is in the cradle position and the other is facing the same direction as the first sibling. Use your hands to support each baby’s head and neck.
Author : Diba Tillery RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPST
