What should I do if one twin breastfeeds better than the other?

It is common in the experience of breastfeeding twins for one to show an ability or desire to breastfeed that differs from the other. This does not necessarily mean there is an intractable medical problem; rather, it requires patience and observation, with a focus on latching skills (attaching to the breast) and providing appropriate support for each child [5]. Breast milk is the best choice for nourishing twins, especially if they are born prematurely, as it is easier to digest and contains proteins and antibodies that protect them from infection [4].

Meeting each child's needs individually

Each child has their own breastfeeding pattern. You may notice one twin nurses quickly, while the other needs more time. It is helpful at first to nurse each child separately until you gain confidence and understand each of their individual needs, then you can move later to nursing them together when you become more comfortable [5]. Breastfeeding success depends on responding to each child's hunger cues separately and not worrying about feeding them at exactly the same times if that does not suit them.

Practical steps to improve breastfeeding for the less efficient child

To help a child who faces challenges with breastfeeding or needs more time, you can try the following steps:

• Improve latching position: Ensure the child is attached to the breast in a correct and comfortable way that does not cause you pain. The child's head should be tilted slightly back to facilitate swallowing and breathing, while supporting their neck and shoulders with your hand [2].
• Early response to hunger: Offer the breast as soon as the child shows early hunger cues, such as moving the head searching for the breast or putting their hands in their mouth, and do not wait until they cry [2]. In the first few weeks, newborns may need to nurse 8 to 12 times within 24 hours [2].
• Skin-to-skin contact: Hold the child in a direct skin-to-skin position to encourage natural searching for the breast and stimulate their desire to nurse [2].

For more general guidance on organizing breastfeeding for two children, you can refer to Breastfeeding Twins: Practical Tips for New Mothers (Arabic).

When should you consult professionals?

If one twin continues to face clear difficulty with breastfeeding, or if they nurse for very long periods (more than 30 minutes on each breast) without appearing to get enough milk, it is important to seek advice [2]. Do not hesitate to contact a lactation consultant, health visitor, or the attending physician to get personalized support [5]. In some cases where the children are small or ill, it may be advised to express breast milk and feed it to them to help meet their nutritional needs [4].

Medical references

• How do I breastfeed?
• Feeding twins and multiples - NHS
• Your breastfeeding questions answered - NHS