September 27, 2021
Here are some friendly tips and tricks for twin mamas in the NICU!
Don’t compare your twins.
They are two individual children and should be treated that way. Some days, twin A will finish their bottle. Some days, twin B will finish their bottle. They don’t need to complete milestones at the exact same time
You have two babies at the exact same time - give yourself grace.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, exhausted and thankful all at the same time
You will get through this season.
Your discharge date might feel years away but I promise mama, you’re going to get through this. Take it hour by hour, day by day.
If one twin goes home first, continuing bringing that baby back to the hospital with you (if allowed).
Continuing helping them bond and be near each other while you’re visiting. It’s okay to also enjoy time at home with one baby while the other continues to get support from the NICU!
Trade "feeding/diaper change" shifts with your significant other so you can get some rest
Don't be afraid to ask for help or to accept help.
This is a big and wonderful transition adding twins to your life, and sometimes those meals or folding laundry while you shower or nap is a blessing.
On the note of showers...allow your significant other 10-30 minutes a day with no interruptions (minus an emergency) where they can do their thing. This might be a shower, drinking a cup of coffee, reading... whatever brings you joy.
Take the picture.
We all can be critical of how we look in pictures, but it will matter more later on to have that picture. And your children will care more that they have loving parents. They are only little once. Soak up every minute you can. Have separate albums in your phone for each twin. With CPAP's & wires, sometimes it's hard to tell who is who!
While in the NICU, don't be afraid to ask if you can hold your babies together. This is great for you and for them as well. And is the best feeling as a momma.
Lastly, you’re a super mom & you got this!
Love, Leah (32 week twin NICU mama from Cleveland) & Haley (34 week twin NICU mama from Champaign, IL)
Project NICU offers connection, support and community to all involved in the NICU Journey. From NICU Care Packages, Peer Support, Graduate Programming, events and more we are here for every step of the journey. Led by NICU Parents, our programs are designed with first hand experience with support by NICU medical professionals on our advisory board to truly create an environment where families and NICU Teams can feel supported.
The blog was contributed by Project NICU in collaboration with TwinGo to help promote NICU Awareness Month. To read more about how TwinGo is supporting Project NICU this month, click here.
