Preparing for Twins
Preparing for twins is two fold; mental preparation and practical preparation. To be honest, I don't believe that anybody is actually prepared for the onset of newborn twins and all that they bring; even those who have had a singleton baby or those who have more than one child already can't really understand the impact two newly born babies bring to a household.
I have two sets of twins and the first set of twins definitely prepared me for the second set of twins as I knew what to expect in terms of the practicalities of having two babies. I could apply my experience and knowledge to the situation therefore helping us make it simple on ourselves but you cannot plan for each eventuality. For us the challenge was increasing from a family of 4 to a family of 6 and the indisputable fact that our 2nd set of twins were born prematurely and I myself fell ill due to complications after the birth did not help the situation.
What I'm attempting to emphasise is that twins can bring unexpected complications so if you can get organized and take care of the things you can control then do so. For example, stock up on nappies and baby formula, make sure the freezer is completely full of pre-cooked meals, make sure you have enough basics for the first few weeks and where possible enroll help from buddies and relatives and have a contingency plan in effect. Guarantee your labour bag is ready by 30 weeks maximum as you truthfully don't know when twins are going to arrive, especially, if they are Monochorionic twins.
You must make sure that any baby furniture or kit is assembled and tested and ready for action; you will not have time to read manuals when your twins have arrived so get it done before they do! It's a great idea to have a checklist which will also help with budgeting; twins don't come cheaply.
I would recommend getting a support system in place for the first few weeks following delivery and even the last one or two weeks prior to delivery, particularly if you already have children to look after. A twin pregnancy can truly put the strain on the body and bed rest at times is mandatory. During the first few weeks you will need an extra pair of hands while you adjust to coping with two babies. Pals and family members are the number one choice but even kindly neighbors or a responsible teen needing to learn childcare could help. If you can afford it seek help from a Doula (women that assist mothers following birth). Do not feel guilty for asking for help, you are a twin mother not superwoman.
I might also advise connecting with other twin mummies who will relate easily to your situation and be well placed to offer advice and comradeship and even some playmates for your twins!
Mother of 2 Sets of Twins talks about her own pesonal experiences of having twins on her website TwinsTips.com
Related posts:
- Twins Support
- Pregnant With Twins
- Having Twins
- How To fall pregnant with Twins
- Getting Pregnant Twins: Are You Prepared?
- Twins and Multiples: The Joys And The Pain
- Twin Baby Equipment
- What To Expect When Experiencing Twins Pregnancy
- How To Get Pregnant For Twins: Do You Want Multiple Pregnancies?
- Cost of Multiples