Double breastfeeding tends to be as much of a problem as it is an answer for many moms. Twins nursing, breastfeeding, or whatever, your baby from both sides anyway, it is still a learning process and practicing how exactly to handle all the things. But how to juggle feeding two babies or ensuring one baby gets enough time on each side without feeling overwhelmed?
This article covers the basics of double breastfeeding, including positioning and practice methods to support milk production. We’ll also discuss some handy tools you can use to get the job done, such as cooler breast milk storage, which will help put your mind at ease, whether you’re at home or on the go.
What Does “Double Breastfeeding” Mean?
Double breastfeeding for mother and baby is when a woman feeds her child from both breasts at once. That way, she can control her flow and ensure the baby receives both the foremilk, consumed at the beginning of a feed and high in volume, and the hindmilk produced toward the end of a feed, which is higher in fat content.
On the other hand, she can feed her twins, or two babies, one after another or together, as it is more convenient for her. Whatever the case may be, double nursing is a smart plan for full feeding and retained milk supply.
Benefits of Offering Both Breasts During a Feeding
A method of double breastfeeding for mother and baby is draining both breasts simultaneously. It not only allows the baby to drink their fill, but it also keeps the mother’s breast healthy and milk available for nursing. That way, the little one gets what they need nutrition-wise, and the mother is taken care of. Here are the major benefits:
- Proper diet: The baby receives a proper balance of foremilk for hydration and hindmilk to satisfy their needs without overfeeding.
- Frequent milk production: When your baby empties both breasts (whether by nursing or pumping), you are commanding your body to produce lots of milk.
- Helps avoid engorgement: You can make sure at least one area of the breast is not full and discomfort will be lessened.
- Breast Drainage Even: Less likely to experience clogged ducts or mastitis.
- Comfort for mom: At the end of the feed, you will soon know that your nursing session was successful, as our double-sided feeding style leaves you feeling lighter and more comfortable.
How to Breastfeed Twins at the Same Time?
For most new mothers of twins, double breastfeeding simply means feeding both babies at once. When a child’s toddler is still breastfeeding, aside from the fact that it’s the best nutrition for toddlers, this method causes a rush of endorphins in the mother’s body, as well as maintaining a decent milk supply.
The first step to success is locating the right position. Some mothers prefer the football hold for both babies, while others opt for the cradle hold or a combination of the two. The nursing pillow for twins may also provide a little more support, making the process more pleasant.
Over time, double breastfeeding will become easy with practice and patience. Even if one of your babies is quicker to latch on than the other, by being consistent, you can ensure both babies get plenty of milk and you get more rest between feeds.
Positions That Make Double Breastfeeding Easier
Discovering the proper position for double breastfeeding can help make it more comfortable and efficient. The best choice depends on what is comfortable for you and how your baby latches onto the breast. Here are some of the positions you may want to experiment with:
● Football hold: One baby is under your left arm and the other under your right. Their bodies are propped up by pillows.
● Cradle and football combo: One baby in the cradle, second baby in the football hold.
● You try a double cradle hold: Both babies are in the cradle position on your chest/belly, which is easier once they get older.
● Semi-reclined position: You’re reclined and both babies are on top of you. They are latched through gravity.
Sitting up: Upright or straddle position: Your baby faces you as they sit, which can be helpful for older babies who are stronger.
Managing Milk Supply When Nursing Two
One of the most typical concerns of double breastfeeding is whether the mother will produce sufficient milk for both babies. The body most of the time adjusts to the need, but a couple of small rituals can help maintain the milk supply.
- Switch starting sides: Alternate breasts each feed.
- Feed often: Regular nursing helps boost the supply.
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Supports milk production.
- Rest when possible: Sleep helps recovery and supply.
- Pump if needed: Additional sessions can help build your supply.
- Store milk safely – Use Momcozy cooler breast milk storage when away.
Preventing Nipple Confusion or Favoring One Side
With double feeding, a baby may prefer one breast over the other or suddenly experience difficulties switching between the breast and bottle. Perhaps these simple steps are a way to strike a balance in feeding.
- Don’t remain on one side; turn repeatedly. Start each feeding on the other breast, and you’ll eventually even out your supply.
- Assist your baby to breastfeed from both sides. Let your baby feed from both the left and right sides.
- Bottles with slow-flow nipples help control the flow rate of the feed, making bottle feeding more similar to breastfeeding and aligning with the baby’s natural feeding rhythm.
- Change your feeding positions. Adjust the holds to both sides to feel good.
- Create room for better latching once the tongue clicks into place. Remember to burp between sides.
- If you wish your baby to take easy feeding, then you should follow a calm pattern. Feeding is easier for babies when they can feed through something patterned like this.
Practical Tips for Comfort, Routine, and Rest
Taking care of two babies at one time while double breastfeeding can be somewhat cumbersome. It’s definitely important to be able to do things that bring you comfort. Finding a routine and making time for rest can all help you keep momentum without feeling that kind of stress.
Find the most suitable support
A twin nursing pillow, or extra pillows can help to keep all the strain off your arms, back and shoulders which in turns helps you stay at the right temperature whilst feeding.
Organize a feeding routine
Feeding both babies at once when you can will give you more time for other things and tell your body to produce milk at a steady pace.
Give your rest the priority it deserves
Sleep when the babies are sleeping and don’t be afraid to ask for help if it’s offered. You will have new ‘strength’ even during short pauses and then feeding will be facilitated.
Do not forget to take plenty of water
Drinking water regularly promotes milk production and refreshes the body, especially when breastfeeding multiple times throughout the day.
Make use of the skin-to-skin contact method
Your babies will be soothed and milk released, and your emotional connection strengthened.
Conclusion
Double breastfeeding might feel at the outset like a bit more than you can chew, leading to a load! However, after a bit of practice, this will become second nature to you. Getting the right positions, routines, and your own comfort during feeding will make the entire process smoother for you and your twins.
Of course, you have to look after yourself too, as well as your babies. Accessories like cooler breastmilk storage are ideal, as they can be your best helper, storing the milk you have expressed and providing it for feeding whenever needed. It’s a great thing to have patience and encouragement; you’ll eventually pull the feeding session off because you can. At the same time, you’re providing an atmosphere of love to the babies.
