Attempting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a safe and appropriate choice for most women — including those who are carrying twins, according to guidelines released this week by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).  This is great news for women expecting twins.  Previously, VBAC was not recommended for women carrying twins although there were no conclusive studies to suggest that twins posed a higher risk. 

In fact, VBAC was often not recommended for many women, and the rate of C-sections in the United States had risen significantly over the past four decades.  In the 1970’s, the C-section rate was about 5%, but by 2007, it was up at a whopping 31%.  One reason for the increased rate of C-sections was due to insurers, doctors, and hospitals opting for a repeat C-section rather than attempting a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC).

TOLAC and VBAC do present some added risk.  If uterine rupture occurs (between 0.5% and 0.9% of the time), it is an emergency situation that can cause serious harm to a mother and babies.  For this reason, TOLAC and VBAC should only be undertaken in a hospital where an emergency C-section can be performed in the event of complications.

Patients and doctors will need to work together on a case by case basis to determine if TOLAC and VBAC are appropriate.  New moms having twins should do their research and come prepared for a discussion with their OB/GYN about the possibility for VBAC with twins if that is their desire.  Patients who encounter doctors that won’t even consider VBAC for a twin pregnancy should consider moving to another doctor.  While there may be very valid reasons why a VBAC is not appropriate for your particular twin pregnancy, you should expect your doctor to cover those reasons with you in detail rather than rejecting the option out of hand.

These new guidelines will provide women expecting twins with more options than were readily available previously.  And when you’re having twins — your options are often limited and out of your control.  So bringing back options is always a good thing.  And reducing the number of “automatic” C-sections is a good thing.  Hopefully these guidelines will help to reduce the overall number of C-sections being performed in the United States.

Source:  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Ob-Gyns Issue Less Restrictive VBAC Guidelines“, July 21, 2010.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Can you feed twins at the same time?

Absolutely! However, it doesn’t work out for everyone, so it is best to keep an open mind about how feeding will go.

• “Tandem Feeding” just means feeding both at the same time, this could be breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or a combination of those.  But in most articles tandem feeding refers to breastfeeding more than one baby at a time. 
• Sometimes one infant will have feeding issues or other medical problems that prevent that baby from breastfeeding, while the other baby may breastfeed like a champ.
• Sometimes moms will feed one baby and then immediately follow with the other because a helper is not available or for some reason tandem feeding doesn’t work out.
• Some families choose to breastfeed one baby while another adult bottle feeds the other baby — then with the next feeding, the babies are swapped. This gives both caregivers an additional opportunity to bond individually with each baby.

I’m having trouble getting the hang of tandem breast feeding – is it worth it?

As we said earlier, it doesn’t work out for everyone, so it is best to keep an open mind about how feeding will go. Don’t beat yourself up if it doesn’t work out for you. There are many circumstances that may prevent you from tandem breastfeeding. Only you can decide if it is worth it to continue attempting to tandem breast feed.  Some of the benefits include:

• Tandem breast feeding can cut the feeding time almost in half
• Some moms report an added closeness between the babies as a result of tandem breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding saves on bottle washing and prep time

Tips for tandem breast feeding

• Practice with a lactation consultant present
• Until you get the hang of it, don’t attempt to tandem feed if you’re alone
• Use a helper to get the babies positioned and to help with burping
• Try to practice at least once a day
• Use pillows! Lots of them
  • Use a double nursing pillow for resting the babies (these are horseshoe shaped, stiff foam pillows that will support two babies at the right level and position for breast feeding). Many twins moms recommend the EZ2Nurse pillow.
  • You may need several pillows under the sides of the double nursing pillow
  • Use a pillow behind mom’s back for support
• Try out different tandem breast feeding holds to determine which works best for you.
  • One way that works well is the “football” or “clutch” hold. One baby tucked under your arm on each side with their legs sticking out towards the back of the chair.
  • Another tandem position is to place the babies in front of you with their legs criss-crossing over each other.
• If one baby is better at breastfeeding than the other, get that baby settled first before adding the second baby

If I don’t tandem feed, how can I deal with two hungry, howling babies at the same time?

The trick here is to cue in to early hunger signals and begin feeding the hungrier baby before either baby gets too hungry.  These early cues include:

• Finger or fist sucking
• Nuzzling into your arm or chest
• Opening and closing of the mouth or smacking
• Moving the head back and forth

If feeding is delayed so that the waiting baby is overly hungry, you can attempt delay or distraction techniques. These include: 

• Use of pacifier
• Placing the baby in a bouncer or vibrator chair
•  Toys
• Offering your (clean) finger for the baby to suck

Twin Tandem Breast Feeding Best Practices

• Keep track (chart) your babies’ feeds (time started, which breast L/R)
• Switch your babies’ assigned breast with each feed
• Practice tandem feeding daily for the first several weeks before making any decisions to discontinue tandem feeds
• Watch for early hunger signs and begin feedings early
• Drink 8 – 12 glasses of water daily (too much or too little can impact milk supply).

Having twins and multiples means more of everything — including morning sickness. The majority of all pregnancies experience nausea to some degree, and that increases with each additional baby in the mix.  The severity of the nausea is also increased with each additional baby.

Pregnancy nausea is usually attributed to the increased hormones during pregnancy. Many of these hormones are produced by the placenta. So, when there is more than one placenta (as in many twin pregnancies), more of these pregnancy hormones are produced — causing increased nausea.

“Morning Sickness” can occur at any time of day, but is often associated with the morning because it can be more strongly felt with an empty stomach. In addition, a twin pregnancy can put more pressure on the tummy — increasing nausea.

One little trick to help with this is to keep crackers or a banana at your bedside. When you get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom (as pregnant twin mamas often must do), eat a little bit. It is healthy for you and your babies — and will help reduce the morning nausea.

Increased nausea is one of many signs that you might be having twins.

Do:

• Eat small meals often
• Take a nap and get plenty of rest
• Learn your particular triggers and avoid those foods and smells that increase your nausea
• Dress in layers so you can peel off if you get too hot (feeling too warm increases nausea)
• Drink lemonade, eat watermelon, or something with ginger — as these help reduce nausea
• Exercise (but talk to your doctor about the amount and type that would be appropriate for your twin pregnancy)
• Eat salty potato chips
• Consult with your doctor — keep your doctor informed of your level of nausea (too much naseua can indicate a problem)
• Eat healthy with lots of protein

Don’t:

• Do not drink a large amount of fluids with meals
• Do not lie down after eating
• Do not skip meals
• Do not cook or eat spicy food

While morning sickness in a twin pregnancy can be more severe and can last longer into the pregnancy, it is survivable — as is just about everything twin related.  Take it one day at a time, and your little sweethearts will be here before you know it.

Did you or do you have morning sickness with your twin pregnancy? Any tips for coping?

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Many new parents having twins, triplets or more wonder and worry if they should hire someone to help care for their twins in the first several weeks or months. Based on my own experience and the results of several surveys conducted by TwinParenthood.com, the resounding answer is YES.

• Yes! If you can easily afford to hire help for the first several weeks, you will not regret doing so
• Yes! If you can’t easily afford to hire help, but can scrape together money to hire help, you will not regret doing so

Still, many twin parents will tell you that hiring someone to help you with your twin infants’ care is not strictly necessary — especially if you have volunteer help.

Volunteer help can come in many forms. It may be family that come to stay with you, or it may be a church or neighborhood community that rallies to your aid. Our previous article, Twin Baby Shower Gifts that Provide Real Help for Mom, gives some great advice about how to incorporate volunteer signups into your twin baby shower. 

But, not everyone has a support network to step in. So, hiring help makes sense. Once you have decided to hire help, the next question quickly arises. 

Should we hire help to care for our twins during the day or night?

Day:  Typically you’ll get more for your dollar during the day if you hire someone for daytime help with your twins because you can hire someone that is willing to do more than strictly baby care (fix lunch, do dishes or wash bottles, for example).  And, daytime help is typically less expensive than night help.

Night:  Getting at least one 4 hour uninterrupted sleep stretch can make a huge difference in your physical and mental well being. If you don’t have at least 3 caregivers in your rotation, you will have difficulty being able to achieve at least one 4 hour stretch of uninterrupted sleep. If you are not able to schedule this in without paid assistance, then you should hire night help.   

What type of help should we hire?

The type of help you will need depends a lot upon your particular situation, your financial reserves, and how much volunteer help you will be receiving. If money is unlimited, you can hire several types of help to cover all the bases: a post-partum doula for right after the babies are born, a night-nanny for the first 3 – 4 months, a day time nanny and a housekeeper.  Unfortunately, the reality is that most of us can’t afford all of that.

Regardless of what type of help you decide on, you should interview your candidates to ensure they have experience with newborns. Experience with twins is nice, but not strictly necessary.

Doula:  A post-partum doula has special expertise with newborns and mother care.  A doula is usually more expensive than other types of care. Doulas are often available for over-night care.

Nanny: A nanny may live in or out, but typically a nanny works only for you – in your home. A nanny is usually considered an employee of the household (and thus, you will usually need to pay vacation and holidays, and consider the tax implications). Nannies responsibilities often include additional tasks such as laundry, dishes, and other light housework. Be sure this is discussed prior to hiring your twins’ nanny.

Night-Nanny: A night nanny is a nanny that works at night.  Often they try to rest when the babies are sleeping, but may do some household tasks such as emptying the dishwasher or folding laundry – again, be sure to negotiate this prior to hiring.

Au Pair: An au pair is a foreign national on a work visa for a 1 year term. They live in your home and are paid a small salary, room & board, and travel & insurance expenses. Typically, they are required to take some kind of coursework (which you will need to make accommodations for in their schedule). Keep in mind that an Au Pair is not a 24 hour caregiver although they live in your home.

Daycare Providers: This is usually in someone else’s home or facility and your babies will not be the only ones receiving care. Daycare providers must be licensed.

Baby Sitter: Not always, but often a baby sitter is used on an irregular, as needed basis. Baby sitters also do not usually perform extra tasks such as light housework.  The term “baby sitter” is often used as an over-arching word to describe anyone who provides child care.

Mother’s Helper: Typically the least expensive of all options. A mother’s helper can be a high school student that comes over after school to help with housework and baby care. Usually a mother’s helper does not take on full responsibility for caring for the babies – but assists with mother present.

Housekeeper: One option not often considered is to hire a housekeeper who will take care of the house, the dishes, the bottles, the pump, cleaning the bathrooms – all of the things that you will not have the energy to do.  It is easy to become resentful of your twins’ caregiver who is spending sweet cuddle time with your babies while you are off doing household chores.  Wouldn’t you rather pay someone to do the things you don’t want to do, while you dedicate your time to your twinfants?

All of the options available for the early weeks of care with your twinfants often seem overwhelming. But, don’t be tempted to put it off, to “wait and see” what you’ll need. To be on the safe side, you’ll want to plan, interview, and hire your caregiver before reaching your 35th week. If you are very unsure and expense is an issue, start with hiring a part-time housekeeper or mother’s helper.

Bottom line, you will not regret having the help. 

What did you do in the early weeks or months?

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

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Multiple Multiples. It could happen to YOU!

All parents of twins and multiples know the standard set of questions that we get asked over and over. One of the old standards is, “Are you done now?”

Many parents of twins answer the same way. I think we’re done, but wouldn’t mind having another — while inwardly the fear is lurking. If we tried to have another, would we have multiples again? How would we survive?

This lackadaisical outlook is what led us to become pregnant the second time around.  Normally, I would say that having a child is a serious matter and should only be undertaken with deliberate intent.  And yet, we all know someone who got pregnant without the intent to do so.  That would be me.

We made the assumption, because we had a significant amount of help and it took us 6 years to get pregnant, that we were “safe” from getting pregnant! A small part of me said to myself that if it did happen it would be great anyway. Well, it did happen, and in a big way.  And yes, it was great anyway.

Over the years, there are so many stories I’ve heard about how this happened to someone they know. The biggest story I’ve been told so far goes like this:

A friend of my mother-in-law said she knew a family that adopted twins. A couple of years later the adoption agency contacted them with another set of twins that needed placement. Would they consider? After thinking long and hard they agreed. Shortly after the arrival of the 2nd set of twins, the woman became pregnant with triplets!

Life with two sets of twins was extremely hard in the first few years. It is almost like labor — you know how that is… you know it was painful but you really don’t remember the pain. You know it was difficult, but it is somewhat of a blur.  We know there are many things we missed when the babies were young. We were just in the trenches — living hour to hour, minute to minute.

Bottom line is this… do be deliberate about having children.  Do plan ahead.  And, even if you do (plan ahead), God can throw you a curve. So remember to just go with the flow — and you will come out the other side.  Things do get easier. It’s all relative. Having one baby is tough, having multiples is tough, and having multiple multiples is tough. But, what a blessing.

One fun aspect of parenting twins is choosing twin baby names. Some parents agonize over the decision — while some have no trouble at all. There are several philosophies to choosing twin baby names (or, as we we like to call them “twinfants” names). But, you need not worry, no matter your philosophy, you’ll eventually settle on something that will be perfect for your little sweethearts.

How to Choose Baby Names for Twins

1. Family Names.  Some parents of multiples will use the opportunity to honor those special to the family (family members, ancestors, friends).  This is a great chance to do that as there are multiple children, and thus multiple names  – so that you do not have to choose which family member to honor first. 
2. Same Initials.  Another option is to name the babies so that all the names in the twins, triplets, or higher order multiples ”set” begin with the same letter.  Some examples:  Aiden & Addison, Brandon & Bryon, and Jacob & Joshua.  Thinking ahead, one pitfall to naming a set of multiples with the same initials is for labeling possessions such as clothing, sippy cups, etc. If they all have the same initials — you’ll have to do a bit more writing.  But, this is a minor inconvenience and may not deter you if you like the idea or the sound of the names together.
3. Birth Order.  Typically hospitals will assign a letter to your babies as they are born (A, B, C, etc.).  Multiples parents have been known to stick with the letter assigned to each.  Examples: A-Abigail, B-Brenden, C-Caleb, etc.
4. Sound Alike or Rhyming.  Many sets of twins are named based on similar sounding names.  Some popular examples: Jayden & Jordan, Ethan & Evan, and Taylor & Tyler, or rhyming names Zoe & Chloe.   Parents need to be aware, though, of a danger with rhyming names. Outside of the immediate family, it can already be difficult to distinguish between identical twins. Having rhyming names can add to the difficulty and be frustrating to teachers and other significant players in your twins lives.
5. Meaningful Names.  Twins are often named to reflect family values or are symbolic in some way to the family.  Examples: Faith & Hope, Jacob & Joseph, Austin & Denver.  Or, maybe you’ll want to choose names that have a similar or complimentary meaning in another ancient language.  Examples: Duke & Dean (which both mean “leader” in French).
6. Complimentary or Harmonious.  Sometimes we just like the way the names sound together. It is appealing the way the twins’ names roll off your tongue. For instance: Madison & Morgan, Olivia & Sophia, Ava & Emma.
7. Same Complexity.  Twin names often sound better together when they have the same number of syllables.  For example, Jessica & Samantha, and Tom & Jo.
8. Stand Alone. Probably the easiest method of all is to simply choose names that you like, and don’t worry about how they sound together. Some would even argue that this is the “best” way to do it because it promotes individuality.

Many resources can help with choosing names for your twins. Tons of books of baby names have been written over the years, and many baby related website have lists and pages of baby names.  One such resource that I think is especially helpful is the Social Security Administration’s list of Popular Baby Names and Popular Names of Twins.  These lists are updated annually, showing the most popular names for the prior year.

Try on names for a while. Write them out. Then, ask friends and family what they think.  But, if you’re like me, maybe you want to keep the names a secret among your friends and family.  If so, another great option is to ask for advice from online twins communities and/or twins support groups. Many great communities exist and typically, your friends and family are not members.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that no matter what names you choose for your twins, triplets, or higher order multiples, there will always be those that think you should have chosen something else. Most people will be supportive, but there will be those that will be insistent in presenting their “perfect” names for your little ones.  Take it all in, mull it over, and above all, just have fun finding your perfect names.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Expecting Twins?

Learning that you are expecting twins is both exciting, and a little frightening. Most parents expecting twins really have no idea what to expect. From the pregnancy onward, you’re in for some big changes.

So, here is the “critical, need-to-know information” about your twin pregnancy:

FACT 1:

Because twin pregnancies are classified as “high risk”, you will receive more ultrasounds and tests than an average singleton pregnancy to ensure the babies (and mom) are staying healthy.

• higher rate of miscarriage
• higher rate of maternal anemia
• higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage (bleeding) after delivery
• higher risk of developing gestational diabetes
• higher risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and sometimes swelling in feet, legs, and hands)
• higher risk of preterm labor and delivery

Advice:

1. Seek out an Obstetrician that specializes in high risk pregnancies, or see a perinatologist.
2. Visit your Obstetrician early in your pregnancy, be diligent about keeping all dr visits.

FACT 2:

Your twin pregnancy may leave you with more of the discomforts associated with pregnancy.

• – morning sickness may be stronger in the 1st trimester
• – back aches, heartburn, and sleepless nights might be worse and begin earlier than in singleton pregnancies
• – more spotting can occur
• – Moms pregnant with twins should expect to gain between 35 – 50 pounds

Advice:

1. Get regular exercise, but don’t overdo it — especially later in the pregnancy.
2. Do not underestimate the need for extra rest and sleep.
3. Get a body pillow to use between your knees for more support.
4. Be sure to eat enough to nourish the babies — there will be time to take off the weight later.
5. A small amount of spotting early in the pregnancy without cramping can be normal, but you should still inform your doctor. If spotting with cramping or heavier bleeding or clots happens — seek immediate medical advice.

FACT 3:

Your pregnancy will require “more” of your body’s resources.

• And, you’ll need to eat more, too. You’ll need to eat an additional 500 – 1000 calories per day.  And protein is critical, you’ll need an additional 35-50 grams beginning around week 20. In total, you’ll need about 150 – 170 grams.
• You definitely will need a good prenatal vitamin with iron. Some vitamins/minerals/supplements will require a higher dosage — including folic acid. Talk to your doctor about the proper vitamins and dosage for you.
• The babies will draw calcium out of your bones & teeth if you are not taking enough in to support the twin pregnancy.

Advice:

1. Be sure to ask your doctor about the need for vitamins and supplements.
2. Make a note on your daily calendar when you have taken your vitamins, so that you will not forget.
3. Drink more milk, and eat yogurt, peanut butter, and fish. These provide more protein, and the milk & yogurt add much needed calcium.  Do be careful, though, about the types of seafood you eat, as you’ll want to avoid those species that have been found to be high in mercury. Learn more about the FDA and EPA’s recommendations for pregnant women: http://www.epa.gov/fishadvisories/advice/
4. Eat small meals, but much more often. You might find that you are not hungry — either due to morning sickness, heartburn, or just feeling full because of the babies pressing on your stomach. But, getting enough calories to support the babies is crucial. Eating protein rich foods is helpful.

FACT 4:

Chances are greater than not that you will be put on bed rest at some time during your pregnancy. And, labor/delivery are more likely to come early.

• Most moms of twins go into labor at 36 to 37 weeks (40 is the norm for singletons).
• Bed rest comes in various degrees. It can range from a modified bed rest (where the doctor simply instructs you to get off your feet whenever possible), to strict at home bed rest where you can only get up to use the toilet, to hospital bed rest.

Advice:

1. Have all your baby preparations completed no later than the 30th week of pregnancy (nursery set up, etc.). Even if you are not placed on bed rest, you will likely be too tired to complete preparations much later than 30 weeks.
2. Discuss with your doctor his/her thoughts about working during your pregnancy and if or when you should stop.
3. Drink a lot of water. Then drink some more.  More water is needed to support the increase in volume of blood. Dehydration is one cause of preterm labor.
4. For tips on how to survive bed rest, read TwinParenthood.com’s article, “Surviving Bed Rest in your Twin Pregnancy.”

FACT 5:

You are more likely to have a C-section.

• There is a higher rate of babies in the breech position.
• There is more incidence of “failure to progress” during labor, as the uterus muscles are often too stretched out to muster a coordinated effort.

Advice:

Think about your wishes for your birth plan before you are admitted to the hospital, but plan to be flexible. Don’t go into it saying, “I’ll be so upset if I have to have a C-section.”

FACT 6:

People (even strangers) are more likely to ask you personal, probing questions about your pregnancy. People are just very interested in multiples.

Advice:

Join a Twins or Multiples Support Group or “Club”. No one can relate to a mom pregnant with twins better than a mom who has “been there, done that”.   Also, you’ll be needing to get a lot of “stuff”, but most of it doesn’t need to be new. These groups often have huge sales where you can stock up.  Still unsure? Check out TwinParenthood.com’s article, “Top Ten Reasons to Join a Twins / Multiples Support Group or Club

Try to keep in mind that people are just interested in multiples, decide how much you want to reveal, and always answer with a smile. To see the humorous side of this, read our article, “Out and About with Twins — when does the carnival end?“.

A twins or higher order multiples pregnancy can be a challenge.  But, by seeking advice early, and following the doctor’s instructions, you can ensure the healthiest outcome possible. There is much you can do to prepare for the coming changes in your life. Research at TwinParenthood.com is a great start.

Copyright 2010 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

What have I missed? I’d love to hear more facts and advice about twin pregnancies from all you twin moms & dads. Please leave a comment.

Expecting Twins? Have Questions?

Today, TwinParenthood.com is very excited to announce a new service available to new parents of twins and those expecting twins.  Starting today, parents expecting twins, or those with twin infants (or as we like to call them, “twinfants”), can submit up to five questions to TwinParenthood.com, and receive a personalized answer.  This new service is free for a limited time.

Your questions can be about anything twin related. 

• Equipment to buy
• Nursery set up
• Bringing twins home
• Sibling Issues
• Pregnancy Questions
• Managing the Nights (or the days!)
• You name it

To submit your questions, please visit our Expecting Twins page.  Hope to hear from you soon!

Bed rest in a multiples pregnancy is very common. Don’t be alarmed.

When you are on bed rest, it is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions. You’ll want to do everything possible to keep those babies in utero as long as possible.

In most cases, your doctor will want you to stop many “normal, everyday” activities.  Some things you’ll want to ask about:

• Picking up older children
• Driving
• Walking
• Stairs
• Shower (or Bath)
• Cooking
• Sitting upright
• Light Chores
• Sexual Intercourse
• Exercise

Make “Bed Rest Buddies”

After gaining an understanding from your doctor about what you can or should not do, you’ll want to connect with other multiples moms also on bed rest. There are some great website communities for women on bed rest. A fantastic resource is sidelines.org. Connecting with others on bed rest can be an emotional lifesaver. Also, often times these bed rest buddies develop into lasting friendships as you and your pals raise your multiples.

Prepare for Bed rest

Set up a bed rest station in your main living area.  Some things you’ll want within arms reach:

• laptop with internet connection
• snacks
• water and other drinks
• pencil / paper
• books and magazines
• TV remotes

What else can you do? 

• Reconnect with friends
• Get Ready for Babies (Pick names, update your financial records – wills, etc.)
• Read Parenting Books
• Craft Projects
• Work (discuss with your employer options for working from home using your laptop or a telephone)

Being on bed rest can be challenging, but it can also be fun. Like many things in life — it is what you make of it. So take a sunny approach and see what you can get accomplished.

Copyright 2009 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com

Membership in a twins (or multiples) support group connects you to terrific resources for both new and seasoned multiples parents.

Learning you are having twins, triplets, or more is very exciting, yet overwhelming news. You quickly realize that you have a lot to do to prepare, and yet, you don’t know where to begin. For others, they’ve been in the trenches a while, but feel the isolation that sometimes comes with the day in and day out care of young multiples. That is where a twins / multiples support group shines.

Top 10 Reasons to Join a Twins / Multiples Support Group

1. Information. For most twins clubs, their primary mission is to educate their members. This is the place to come to learn what you need to do to care for twins, triplets, or more, of all ages.
2. Understanding. No one can relate to the challenges of having multiples like another family who has “been there done that.”
3. Connections. Having multiples is sometimes isolating. Parents of multiples often have their heads down, grinding it out, for at least the first six months. A multiples group can go a long ways to relieving that feeling of isolation.
4. Web Resources. Many twin clubs have vibrant online communities. This allows parents to take part with others in all seasons of twin parenthood (some who have been there done that… some who are currently struggling in the first few months).
5. Consignment Sale. Often twins groups feature a consignment sale or clothing exchange. These are especially helpful when making your first investment in equipment for raising your multiples. After you’ve moved on, you can select those items in good working condition, clean them up, and pass them along to another family.



6. Playdates. Twins clubs often feature age related playgroups. These are great for the kids, but are fabulous for the moms (and dads) — to begin making those connections with other multiples families.
7. Member Meetings. Twins groups offer monthly support meetings, where you can interact with other members, and which often feature guest speakers on topics pulled from the struggles of raising twins.
8. Direct Support. Many twins groups have multi layered direct support programs — such as:
   • Meals provided for new families or those in crisis.
   • A “Preemie Closet” — loans of preemie sized clothing so that parents do not need to run out and buy these tiny clothes that are used for such a short time until these tiny babies grow into a normal newborn size. 
   • Mentoring Program — experienced multiples parents paired up with new multiples parents.
9. Events. Twins clubs have great events — where those attending know what it is like, and people are ready to give a helping hand. Moms know that it is difficult to watch all the kids at once, so everyone watches out for each other’s kids:
   • Moms’ Activities: book club, get acquainted tea, holiday dinner, mom’s night out
   • Dad’s Activities: poker night, sports, dad’s night out
   • Family Activities: picnics, parties (harvest, holiday, spring egg hunt, etc.), camping, social events for school aged kids
   

   Twins Club Event - Family Hike

10. Lending Libraries. Typically, a twins / multiples support group has a lending library of books on raising multiples. Often, volunteers bring the books to monthly support meetings where parents can browse the titles and bring something home — without making an extra trip to the bookstore.

Joining a twins / multiples group is a no-brainer. Cost is usually very reasonable for a full years worth of activities and support. You can choose where and when you will take part. As with anything, the more active you are — the more benefits you will receive in the form of friendships and support. What’s holding you back? The time to join is now (especially if you’ve just learned you are expecting).

There are great resources online to find a local twins / multiples club in your area, such as the National Organization of Mothers of Multiples (NOMOTC.org). Or, just begin a search for “twins club” or “moms of multiples”.