Life After the Birth of Twins

Regular Feeding Schedules

• Expect lots of feeding when you bring newborn twins home from the hospital. Newborn babies typically eat every 2 to 3 hours, so you'll have two little mouths looking for food on a regular basis. To make the eating process easier, stick to a schedule and feed both babies at the same time. Otherwise you'll have one baby crying to eat about the time the other finishes, and you won't have time to change diapers or do laundry. Since most multiples are born prematurely and are underweight, regular feedings are very important. Wake them together for daytime feedings and give them their last feeding around 10 p.m, advises "Parents" magazine.

Focus on Necessities

• Caring for twins is a time-consuming responsibility, so focus on things that matter most. Meal times, diaper changes, baths and quality time with the twins and the rest of your family are top priorities. You might have to put housecleaning, yard work, scrapbooking and home repairs on hold for a few weeks or months. Multitasking skills, such as starting a load of laundry while washing bottles or paying bills while the babies are sleeping, will make the most of your time.

Work in Doubles

• You might feel like you don't have enough hours in the day, so do things in doubles. When you prepare for bath time, lay out two towels. Prepare two bottles even if one twin is still sleeping, and do diaper changes back-to-back. When it's time to clip fingernails and toenails, do both babies in the same setting so you don't have to get out the clippers twice. When possible, feed, bathe and rock both babies at the same time. Even though you want to give each baby individualized attention, doubling up on basic childcare needs is an efficient time-management skill.

Accept Help

• Life after the birth of twins can be tough, so don't let your pride get in the way. Ask and accept help, so you don't burn out, wear out or have trouble recovering after delivery. When you request help, give specific instructions so family and friends know what to do. They may think folding laundry is helpful when you really need them to pick up diapers at the store. Let them know what day and time works best for your schedule, so they won't show up when your spouse is home and you don't need the extra help.