Breastfeeding Twins: Discover the Best Holds

Breastfeeding twins can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it often comes with its own set of challenges. In the early days of breastfeeding our twins I was set on feeding them one at a time. I wanted to be able to focus on one baby, snuggle them, look at them and have that time together. Well shortly into our breastfeeding journey it became obvious that I needed to tandem feed. They’d start waking up at the same time or wake each other up or I’d try to feed one and the other one would get upset. Let’s explore different twin breastfeeding holds that can help nursing mamas establish and maintain a successful breastfeeding journey with their twins.

The Double Cradle Hold:

The double cradle hold is a popular position for breastfeeding twins. In this hold, you can sit in a comfortable chair with pillows for support. Place one baby in the cradle hold on your left side and the other baby in the cradle hold on your right side, positioning their bodies facing yours. Use pillows to support their heads and bodies, ensuring they are at breast level. This hold allows you to maintain eye contact with both babies and establish a close bond with each one individually.

The Football Hold:

The football hold is another commonly used position for breastfeeding twins, particularly if you had a cesarean birth or if your babies are small. Sit in a semi-reclined position with your back well-supported. Place one baby under your arm, supporting their head with your hand, and position them facing your breast. Use pillows to elevate the baby’s body to breast level. Repeat the same process with the other baby on the opposite side. The football hold allows you to have better control and support while feeding.

The Combination Hold:

The combination hold is a versatile option that combines elements of the cradle and football holds. In this position, place one baby in the cradle hold on one breast, and position the other baby in the football hold on the opposite breast. This hold allows for flexibility and can be useful if your babies have different feeding preferences or if you want to switch sides during a feeding session.

The Laid-Back or Biological Nurturing Position:

The laid-back position, also known as biological nurturing, can be beneficial for breastfeeding twins, especially in the early stages. Lie back comfortably with pillows supporting your head, neck, and back. Place your babies on your chest, allowing them to find their own latch and positioning. Gravity will help keep them in place, and this position encourages natural instincts and bonding between mother and babies.

The Tandem Nursing Pillow Hold:

Using a tandem nursing pillow is a practical solution for breastfeeding twins. These specially designed pillows provide support and stability for both babies while allowing you to maintain an upright position. Place the twins side by side on the pillow, with their heads facing the breast. This hold is convenient for mothers who want to nurse both babies at the same time with minimal strain on their arms and backs.

Breastfeeding twins requires patience, practice, and finding the right holds that work best for both you and your babies. Experimenting with different positions, such as the double cradle, football hold, combination hold, laid-back position, or using a tandem nursing pillow, can help you find the most comfortable and effective method for feeding your twins. Mama remember that each breastfeeding journey is unique, and it may take time to find the holds that work best for you and your babies. Seek support from lactation consultants, join twin-specific breastfeeding support groups, and trust in your ability to nourish and bond with both of your little ones.

In the end we found the double football hold with a twin feeding pillow to be the best position for all of us. This helped with our small babies and my cesarean scar. Plus it was the easiest position for me to get our squirmy babies into.