Maternity with twins is one of the most rewarding, yet challenging experiences a mother can have. From the initial surprise of seeing your babies on an ultrasound to the overwhelming amount of love you feel when they finally enter the world, there are many things to take into account and plan for. Once you’ve prepared for pregnancy and actually given birth, you’ll need to prepare for life as a parent of twins. This means double the diapers, double the feedings, and double everything else!
The challenges don’t stop here though; as parents of twins, we often face criticism from those who say that our parenting must be easier or that it’s all downhill from here. It’s true – raising children as parents of twins is different than raising a single child.
What Is Maternity With Twins?
Maternity with twins means two babies, two sleep schedules, two car seats, two cribs, and so on. The good news is that many of the challenges associated with parenting twins are the same as those for one baby.
So, what can you expect when you’re expecting twins? What are some things to prepare for in the months before they arrive?
Your hospital stay is likely to be longer. You’ll need to plan how to care for your twins in the home. There are certain things you’ll need to prepare your home for the arrival of your twins. And when it comes to caring for them in the home, you’ll need to plan for two of everything (except clothes). Trust me – the list goes on and on.
It’s just double each task. And while it may seem like you’re not getting any sleep, it’s worth remembering that you’re doing twice as much work as someone who has just one baby.
Preparing for the First Trimester of Pregnancy
One of the most important preparations you’ll need to make for having twins is to plan for the first trimester. It’s important to note that the first trimester is different for mothers of twins because you’re more likely to have an early miscarriage. You might need to go for regular ultrasound check-ups & other tests too.
The first trimester can be difficult because it’s a critical time for your baby’s development. You might feel nauseous, have mood swings, and feel fatigued. It’s important to take care of yourself during this time because your health will impact your babies’ health.
Talk to your doctor about what symptoms are normal, what symptoms are cause for concern, and what symptoms require emergency care. Be sure to take care of yourself during the first trimester so that you can give your babies the best possible start in life!
Preparing for the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
The second trimester is the time when your babies are still very tiny and malleable, and it’s easier to get them to sleep and keep them sleeping. You will need to take more naps and get plenty of rest, but it won’t be a struggle to make yourself a priority.
Make sure to plan for some serious rest while you can. Do some reading, catch up on sleep, spend time with friends, and make sure you’re doing exercise. It will serve you well when you get into the third trimester and will be more difficult.
Do not take this time for granted. Enjoy it while it lasts!
How to Stay Sane Managing Twins
Managing your twins is no small task. You may feel like you’re running on a hamster wheel at times! But with a little know-how and creativity, you can do it. Check out these 3 methods to help you stay sane and manage your twins:
1. Keep a system.
This means establishing clear routines and sticking to them as much as possible, as well as creating systems for tasks like laundry and bathing.
2. Sleep.
It’s not just the number of hours we sleep that matters, but also the quality. Be sure to take care of yourself by getting enough rest, even if it means taking short power naps when the babies are sleeping or finding a trusted babysitter.
3. Take care of yourself.
Don’t forget to make time for yourself and your needs. Take time for your hobbies, spend time with friends and family, and take care of your own physical and mental health in order to be the best parent for your twins that you can be!
A Mother’s Advice on Being Parents of Twins
We often hear from people who say that parenting twins must be easier or that it’s all downhill from here. It’s true – raising children as parents of twins is different than raising them as singleton children. They require a different way of thinking and caring for them from the beginning.
We also hear a lot of things from the other side, the judgmental side, who think we must be really lucky to have two instead of one. Well, while we know these things are true, they are not the only truths about being a parent of twins.
As a parent of twins, you’ll need to buy two of everything, from two cribs to two car seats to two pairs of shoes – you get the idea. There’s no such thing as a spare when it comes to our kids! You have to have a “mommy” brain that can do math in your head without even thinking about it because you’re always figuring out how much you need to buy next time and what size your children will be.
We’ll teach you what we’ve learned about being parents of twins and how we’ve found balance in our lives by sharing some insights and advice from a mom who’s been there.