Expecting Twins....

[katm84]

I found out last week that we are expecting twins... totally over the moon! Still can't believe it! Just wondering if anyone has any tips on websites/books to read and also if anyone who has had twins has any advise... any tips would be amazing!!!

[Muminspire1]

Congratulations on your fantastic news, I have only singletons so far bit but there is a few ladies expecting twins and they will reply soon am sure, wishing you all the best

[EmmaM1]

I read Gina Ford's 'A contented house with twins' which was really useful. She recommends establishing a routine from very early on so that your babies follow more or less the same 'schedule'. Some of her advice is totally unrealistic (eg she expects your baby to simply lie down and nap at set times of the day which is totally unrealistic), but the guiding principles of her advice are really useful. Therefore, I have implemented a routine, based on her book but apply it flexibly. One thing is for sure, babies don't always stick to the routine every day, they just do their own thing sometimes. So you just have to go with the flow.... We are also members of TAMBA, the twins and multiple births association. They have some useful information on their website and run courses. Some good stuff on breastfeeding twins too. Hope this helps.

[Hidden]

If you're on Facebook and interested in babywearing there's a group called Twin Sling - tandem wearing tiny babies in a stretchy looks awesome. I have two children two years apart and tandem wear them small on my front, big on my back - it's not the same! I recommend this because babywearing has kept me sane, baby is safe and not crying!

Follow your babies cues and trust your instincts. Say thank you to anyone offering well meaning advice and then work out how you want to do it in your family. X

[Tlove]

I have week old twins! So far they have been fine. I suppose some things to consider would be how you want them delivered - natural, induction or c section. This decision will probably be taken out of your hands because of how they are lying but also because they are considered full term at 37 - 38 weeks. Also the breastfeeding will be strongly advised but for me, I gave a little colostrum at the start and then after 2 days of frantically trying to feed them I realised that I would have no life because by the time both were fed, it was time for twin 1 feeding again. The hospital will be supportive either way but I actually think it's better to go in there with your mind made up. I was open to trying the BF and went to the classes and everything but I just didn't enjoy the first 2 nights with them and wish I'd gone to formula straight away. Having said that, I was lucky and carried them to term. If they had been premies, I would have persevered.

Expect to get pelvic girdle pain at some point and make sure you get referred to the hospital Physio for this. A gym ball is good, as is a pregnancy pillow towards the end. You will also need to finish work earlier than if it were a singleton pregnancy. The main risks with twin pregnancy is premature birth and pre eclampsia, so know the symptoms and keep an eye on things.

Have a look for multiples clubs in your area as well so you meet others who have twins.

It's early days for me yet so I can really only give you tips on the pregnancy side of it! Best of luck with the pregnancy.

[katm84]

thanks for all your help!!