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Ahead of Schedule

What to Expect When Your Multiples Are Premature

By Amy E. Tracy

Dr. Bernbaum also stresses that parents should look for progress over time. "If you have concerns, talk with your pediatrician and ask for an evaluation," she says.

Your breast milk has nutrients designed especially for your preemie multiples and antibodies that help fight infection. But breastfeeding isn't easy: Your babies may have weak sucking abilities, they may tire easily, and your milk supply may be low because of the stress of caring for more than one infant. Many mothers pump and store their milk, then begin nursing when their babies are developmentally ready.

To successfully nurse, you need resources and support. A lactation consultant, feeding specialist or a local breastfeeding support group can help. Remember, any amount of breast milk you provide your babies is beneficial.

By breast or bottle, your babies will probably need frequent meals for good growth, and chances are they won't always want to eat at the same time (do ask your hospital to try to get them on a regular eating and sleeping schedule before homecoming). Understandably, you may feel overwhelmed and exhausted.

"This is a time when you really have to nurture yourself," Malmstrom says. Get plenty of rest, eat well and take vitamins.

Taking care of yourself and your babies can be stressful, to say the least. But most parents say parenting multiple preemies gets easier with practice – and it's time well spent. Griffin, whose twins are now 2, says, "On the days when it's really hard, I try to think back at their early births and remember how lucky I am to have them. I'm exhausted, but happy."

Want to see more?

• Are You Prepared for a Preemie? A Guide to Preterm Babies
• Talk about it!
• Nurturing Your NICU Baby
• Going Home Alone: When Preemies Need to Stay in the NICU
• Check out our Article Library.

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