Tips: Positions for Breastfeeding Twins (or more!)

My latest “Boob Group” contribution was featured in this week’s episode – a brief overview of some positioning options for Breastfeeding Twins. (The segment is near the beginning of the episode if you’d like to listen.) I couldn’t say everything there, so here’s more on the topic!

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In the beginning, you may find it easiest to focus on feeding one baby at a time, but once you and the babies get the hang of things, you may want to tandem nurse for some or all of your feedings. Many moms find that using a special twin nursing pillow [such as the My Brest Friend Twin Pillow or the San Diego Bebe Twin Pillow (formerly the Double Blessings EZ-2-Nurse)] helps them comfortably support both babies in the football position. This is great for babies when they’re younger, and continues to work for many people as their babies grow because it gives each baby their own space! For small babies, you may need to add rolled or folded receiving blankets, washcloths, or other props to help position the babies and keep yourself comfortable. As the babies get bigger, you can adjust the number of props or add some pillows behind your back or under the pillow for extra support.

Some moms choose an alternate nursing position when their babies get bigger, while others find ways to adjust their positioning to accommodate their growing babies. This might mean using the same nursing pillow setup but stretching the babies’ legs up the back of a sofa, or using a standard bed pillow to support the babies’ heads while their bodies rest on the couch/chair/floor.

You can also tandem nurse while reclining. You may want to experiment with feeding in a recliner or leaning back on some pillows, with one baby resting along each side supported by your arms. This position is well suited for babies who are latching well and have good head control, and it’s a nice way to feed babies and let mom rest a bit.

Once your babies are older, you might want to experiment with more upright positions. Babies who are sitting on their own can each straddle your leg and lean in to nurse. This position is especially nice when you’re out and about because it doesn’t require any nursing pillows or props, and can be easier on your back.

Older babies and toddlers also get more efficient in their nursing practices, so sometimes you may find you prefer to feed them individually. This is especially helpful when you’re nursing away from home, because the normal juggling act of tandem nursing may be amplified without your regular complement of pillows and props.

Remember, there are nearly as many breastfeeding positions and combinations of positions as there are breastfeeding triads. Whatever positions you initially choose, remember that as your babies grow, new options will be available – so please keep experimenting to figure out what works best for you!

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Your turn: What positions worked for you? Did you feed babies one at a time or together?