Caring for More Than One Baby

A pregnancy of two or more babies is called a multiple pregnancy. Caring for newborns can take a lot of time and energy. And raising more than one baby may mean even less sleep, more daily tasks, and less time for yourself. But you can also find joy in watching your babies grow and develop together.

At times, you may feel overwhelmed or need extra support. Try not to wait until stress feels overwhelming before asking for help. Your family, friends, and doctor can help you find ways to cope.

Breastfeeding more than one baby can be challenging. If you plan to breastfeed your babies, your doctor or a lactation consultant can give you support and advice. Breastfeeding can offer health benefits for both you and your babies and can be a time to feel close and connected.

Some people feel sad, anxious, or depressed after having babies. If these feelings don’t go away or begin to feel overwhelming, talk with your doctor. Help is available, and many people start to feel better with support and treatment.

How can you care for yourself when raising multiples?

• Try to plan ahead. Buying supplies, getting your babies in and out of cars and strollers, and keeping track of what your babies have eaten or done can become overwhelming with more than one baby. Diapers, naps, nursing, and everything else that is part of your babies' lives can take up a lot of your time and energy.
• Get as much rest as you can. Most household tasks can wait while you rest and recover.
• Ask family and friends for help. They might be able to bring meals, go grocery shopping, or do household chores. Or ask them to help with the babies while you take some time for yourself.
• If you are going to breastfeed, try to be flexible. You may be able to breastfeed all your babies. Or you may use your breast pump or formula so that your helpers can feed your babies too. A lactation consultant can help you find positions and systems to make nursing work.
• Bathing your babies can be a big job and can wear you out. Whether you bathe your babies together or one at a time, ask for help.
• Consider joining a support group for parents of twins or more. Sharing your experience with other people who are in a similar situation may help you with the demands of caring for your babies. See if there is a local chapter of Mothers of Multiples.
• If you have an older child or children, try to have some one-on-one time with each one.
• If you have a partner, try to find time to connect with each other.
• Be alert for postpartum depression. It's normal to have some sadness, anxiety, and mood swings after delivery. It may help to talk with a trusted friend or family member. You can also call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for support. If these mood changes last more than a couple of weeks, talk to your doctor or midwife.