Feeding Multiples: Power is in the Eye of the Bottle Holder
It’s a simple formula (no pun intended); twins equal twice the crying, twice the diapers, and twice the feeding. Bottle feeding multiples is as easy as ABC.
In 2014, the rate of twin births reached a record high. According to a 2015 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 33.9 twins were born per 1,000 births in the United States.
It’s a simple formula (no pun intended); twins equal twice the crying, twice the diapers, and twice the feeding. But don’t panic! You have bottle power. Take a deep breath and follow these steps. Bottle feeding multiples is as easy as ABC.
A = Assistance: Ask for it.
Feeding isn’t just mom’s job anymore. Whether you are breastfeeding and pumping, formula feeding, or combination feeding, bottle feeding allows anyone to feed your baby. With more than one mouth to feed, dad, grandma or brother can take on the role, also giving them a great opportunity to bond with the baby.
B = Bottles: Prep them.
Running late? Don’t worry; bottles are here to save the day. Preparing your babies’ bottles will help save you time in the morning and get you extra sleep at night. When preparing and storing breastmilk and formula, keep in mind how long it can be safely fed to your baby. Formula can be stored safely in the refrigerator for 24 hours, and refrigerated breast milk lasts 3-5 days. When storing breast milk and formula, be sure to remember the different time frames for how long it remains safe to feed.
C = Confidence: Have it.
Be confident in your choice. 98% of mothers say it should be their decision on how they choose to feed their baby. The choice parents make about how to feed their child is an important and personal decision rooted in individual beliefs, circumstances and experiences. No matter your decision, we support you and so should others.
Bonus letter! D = Diligent: Be diligent when making your decision.
Most modern parents are connected digitally to the Internet, with instant access to unlimited sources. However, with all the digital resources out there, there is often just as much – if not more – bad information than there is good. So where can parents turn to for reliable facts to help them make informed choices about safe and nutritious infant feeding options? Read more.