Another challenge faced by twin mothers is the increased chance of having one or both your babies in the NICU. You might wonder how that works – breastfeeding in the NICU.

How To Make It Work Breastfeeding In The NICU

In many cases it is still possible to provide your baby with breastmilk. If this is your situation, you will probably need to use a high quality electric pump to help get things going and then you will need to pump on a three hour schedule so that you can establish a sufficient supply and have milk to bring to your baby.

While you are still in the hospital, you will be provided with a pump you can use which is pretty handy. Breast pumps make breastfeeding in the NICU both possible and convenient. If you are going to be discharged before your baby, you will want to rent or purchase an electric pump for your home use. You will then be able to pump at home and bring the milk to your baby. A pumping bra can make pumping easier, it might be worth checking into them to save your hands and free them up to enjoy a book or fold laundry or have a snack.

You won’t be asking for anything out of the ordinary. After all, NICUs are set up for this and the nurses will provide you with the necessary direction. You will be able to label and store your milk in designated fridges. The NICU nurses should also be able to provide you with an idea of the feeding times and amounts so that you will know when you need to return with more milk. Depending on the size and health of your baby, you may also be encouraged to visit at feeding time and nurse your baby.

Having a baby or babies who need extra medical care can be stressful, but breastfeeding in the NICU is still possible if it’s a priority for you. Congrats on your baby and best of luck in your journey to wellness.