Bottle Feeding Twins
Families who choose to use bottles for feeding their twins have the benefit of extra hands; Mom is not the only source of food as she is when breastfeeding. Dad, grandparents, a nanny, or other helpers can participate in the feeding process. However, there are many times when it is necessary for one person to feed both babies at the same time, and that is when it is handy to have a strategy. It takes some practice, but it can be very manageable to feed two babies at the same time. Whether you use formula or pumped breastmilk in the bottles, your tactics for feeding twins may vary depending on their age and size. Just like in breastfeeding, positioning is important. Younger babies require support for their necks and heads. While the intimacy of close physical contact is an added benefit during feeding, it may work best to use bouncy seats or infant carriers to position the babies during the feeding. A nursing pillow, such as those sold by The Twin Z Company or My Brest Friend, is also a good option. You can use them emulate the positions recommended for nursing. Older babies have more physical control of their heads and limbs, and may even be able to hold the bottle without assistance. They can be arranged on a bed, a sofa, or even on the floor with pillows and blankets. (Just be sure that they are protected from falling if they roll around.) However, initially, we recommend bouncy seats or infant carriers. In these seats, the babies’ heads are positioned properly above their bellies, and the babies are secure and comfortable. Make sure the seats are in a safe spot, with plenty of room but at a height that is comfortable for you. You can put them on a counter or table and stand to feed the babies, on a bed or sofa and kneel in front of them, or on the floor and sit to feed them. Everyone is comfortable and relaxed for the feeding session.
Starting a Feeding Session
To start a feeding session, get the babies set up in their seats. They will be comfortable and safe, and you can focus on assembling the bottles. Arrange everything you’ll need within arms’ reach: babies, bibs, bottles, and burp cloths for cleaning up messes. Pull the babies in close so that you can comfortably hold the bottles at their mouths. Tuck a burp cloth or rag under each chin or on each chest, so that it will be close by. Start with your less dominant hand first; if you are right-handed, give the baby on your left the first bottle so that your capable hand is free to help. Once the first baby is “plugged in,” start feeding the second baby. Even if you are not ambidextrous, you will eventually become adept at managing both bottles at the same time. While feeding, use lots of eye contact and even your voice to communicate with the babies. Alternate your attention between each child to ensure that they are feeding correctly, with the bottles flowing correctly. If you have to stop to wipe up spills or spit-up, stop feeding both babies; you’ll just make more of a mess if you try to multitask.
