How to Nurse a Baby While Pregnant With Twins

Breast-feeding a baby has many advantages. It is an inexpensive way to provide optimum nutrition that is tailored to the individual infant's needs. A woman who breast-feeds her baby also receives several health advantages such an increased ability to burn calories and, according to a study in the July 20, 2002 issue of the Lancet, a decreased risk of breast cancer. Nursing a baby while carrying twins can be difficult but it can be done with the right support and preparation.

Instructions

1

Drink lots of water. Water can help you increases your milk supply if you are short of milk. Pregnancy can help you up your supply of milk as your body prepares to nurture two new babies.

2

Get enough sleep. Both pregnancy and lactation can release hormones that can make you sleepy as you nurse. The best way to cope with the sleepiness that is common in early pregnancy is to take naps if possible. You can easily cuddle up with a baby next to you in bed in a sidecar sleeper after she has finished nursing. Getting enough rest can help you cope with caring for your baby and gestating twins. Your body is undergoing a tremendous change in a short time frame. Let that happen without fighting it.

3

Protect your nipples. First-trimester hormones can make your nipples feel sore and achy. Reduce the hurt with soothing creams on the market designed to reduce nipple soreness as well as soft cotton nipple shields you can place in your bra when not nursing.

4

Stick to comfort nursing only. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that women nurse babies for at least a year. Older babies can also benefit from nursing. As your baby grows, you can feed him other sources of nutrition such as vegetables and whole grains. If your baby is older than a year, consider nursing her only for specific activities such as getting to sleep at night, comfort during vaccinations and after she's had a minor misstep or fallen down. Older babies may also not want to continue nursing after you've become pregnant because a pregnancy can affect the taste of the milk.

5

Hire outside help. If you find that the pregnancy is creating problems with your existing nursing relationship, hire professionals. Lactation consultants are trained medical professionals who can assist you with any problems with your existing breast-feeding relationship. A visit may even be covered under your medical plan. Contact an office of your nearby La Leche League. The La Leche League is devoted to helping women nurse their children. Members are trained volunteers, many of whom have nursed their own children. They can assist you with any problems you might have without additional costs.