Thoughts on Breastfeeding

Despite being told multiple times that it would be IMPOSSIBLE to nurse twins, there was never a doubt in my mind that I would nurse my babies. I did not know how difficult it would be, but anticipated that meeting the needs of two babies would be a challenge. I am so glad that I stuck with it though. The benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the convenience of not doing so and to be honest I really don't agree with people who claim that babies are able to get all the antibodies and benefits from mother's milk after breastfeeding for a month (although I suppose breastfeeding for a month is better than not at all). It is so hard not to be judgmental, but in my opinion they copped out and failed their babies by giving up so quickly. It is definitely a commitment; it involves some effort and time, but it is so worth it.

I can't lie though, it has been hard and unfortunately we were on a slippery slope from the beginning in the hospital. Eirin was taken to the NICU immediately after birth so I was unable to nurse her -- the nurses started her on formula and she had difficulty latching once out of the NICU. Liam did really well, the nurse had me nurse him hours after birth, and latching wasn’t a problem. Milk production though was sub-par as he did lose some weight those first few days. The first time I used the pump at the hospital, I was shocked at how little milk I produced. No wonder the kid was losing weight. The nurses assured me it would come in, to keep at it, to continue nursing & pumping, that the milk would come. Despite my doubts, I heeded their recommendations and they were right. It is such a bonding experience, a relaxing time to sit and devote time to each baby. I did try feeding both at once but I found it to be very awkward and really I never did quite get the hang of the “double football” hold or any of the other recommended positions for feeding twins. Although it would have cut my feeding time in half, I prefer the one-on-one time with the babies. My hat’s off to those who’ve been successful at breastfeeding twins at once! Per doctors’ orders we do supplement with formula. I struggled with this at first because I so wanted them to get their nutrients from me, but I also realized that bottle feeding did give me a break & gives their Papa a chance to pitch in. It would have been nice to stick to breast milk exclusively, but we did what was best for us and continued the routine we got used to in the hospital.

We’re now six months in and I’ve continued to breastfeed despite being back to work. In the past week, I have noticed a dramatic drop in milk production, which just makes me so sad. I made a commitment to stick with it for their first year, but I may have to stop earlier than that. Well, as the saying goes the best laid plans of mice and men oft go astray... It will be my body that dictates the end date. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy the last days of this experience.