ARE YOU EXPECTING TWINS OR MULTIPLES? GET STARTED ON THE RIGHT FOOT! (OR FEET!)

My first doula clients were twins! This very special set of twins started my career as a doula and I have always had a heart for this unique type of parenting. Since 2010, I have worked with many multiples families in the Des Moines area. I have also dedicated many hours of professional development in learning more about caring for twins/multiples including an Advanced Multiples Training.

What Does Postpartum Support Look Like?

There are a lot of worries about bringing home twins from the hospital. Whether they have had a NICU stay or not, often times this transition can be very tough on families. I suggest that new families use at least 1-2 shifts within the first few days of coming home from the hospital. During those shifts, we can get your home set up for an easier start. I can help you get babies on a schedule, how to feed them simultaneously, help with breastfeeding/pumping/formula feeding, and/or even how to get more sleep as you recover from birth.

In addition to helping get the babies started on the right foot, I have a big heart for making sure mom (and other family members) are handling things emotionally and physically as well. Often, twins/multiples have a many visitors who love to hold the babies, but my first priority is helping you handle the first few days & weeks postpartum with confidence. Recovering from a twin/multiples pregnancy and birth is not an easy job!

What is a Typical Shift like with Twins/Multiples?

As previously mentioned, my first priority is always to the new mother. Often, I start shifts by making you some breakfast or lunch (depending on the start time) and we can chat about how things are going. This is a great time to get information you may be needing about schedules, growth, baby care tasks like bath time, breastfeeding, or anything else on your mind. Then we get the babies fed. At this point, many new moms find they are exhausted and if babies are settled, it is a great time for you to get a shower or nap. During that time, I’m happy to care for the babies and perhaps work on folding some of their laundry or get dinner in the crockpot. This is just a sample of a shift and I’m happy to help you however you may need!

How Many Shifts Do I Need?

That is a great question! During our free consultation, we talk about what help you will have and their strengths, and come up with a plan of support that is just right for your family. Some families will do one week of care while others will do three months. It is completely up to you.

In addition to working with families, I’ve attended an Advanced Multiples Training which has taught me how to help babies get onto a schedule, feeding support, and helping the new mother recover. Many new families are flooded with people wanting to help right after the birth and offer advice. Much of this can be overwhelming to the new family. Having professional, in-home support is one way many families are starting life with twins/multiples on the right foot. Whatever you’re looking for, I’m happy to be a part of your Twins/Multiples Team!

Multiples Class

Do you wonder how you’ll care for two or more babies? What items are a necessity? How will you carry both babies at once or attend to both of their needs at once? I’ve put together a class just for twins and multiples families based on my experience, information from clients, and various multiples trainings I’ve attended. This class will give you immediate tips and tricks for preparing for life with babies! Are you babies already here? Contact Katie@theiowababylady.com to see if this class might work for you and for the upcoming dates.