Duration of Breastfeeding for Mothers of Twins

Abstract

To describe the incidence and duration of breastfeeding for mothers of twins and identify factors that affected this duration. Secondary analysis of data from a larger longitudinal predictive study of maternal attachment in mothers of twins. Paper and pencil questionnaires once during pregnancy and twice in the first 6 months postpartum. 123 women recruited from a national support group for mothers of twins. Mothers' Information Tool, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Index of Breastfeeding Status. 110 (89.4%) of the sample initiated breastfeeding or initiated a milk supply by pumping. Percentage of breast milk feedings at time 2 predicted whether or not a woman was still breastfeeding at time 3 (odds ratio = 3.63, p < .001). A high percentage of breastfeeding initiation was found despite the increased care burden that has been described for mothers of twins. Mothers who continued to breastfeed at time 3 provided a high percentage of the twins' milk feedings as breast milk. The results suggest that mothers who are able to persist with the difficulties of establishing a milk supply for twins and feeding two infants are able to continue providing a high percentage of the infants' feedings as breast milk.