Since the arrival of my twins last year, I’ve dedicated myself to breastfeeding them. I firmly believe in my choice and never judge others for their feeding decisions, whether they opt for formula or not. But let’s be honest, I can be pretty stubborn.
Since June, I can’t count how many times I’ve been nudged to try formula. Family, friends, and even healthcare providers have questioned my commitment, calling me selfish and causing me to doubt my ability to provide enough nutrition. Coupled with clogged ducts, lip ties, tongue ties, and less-than-ideal latches, it’s been a tough journey. I love nursing and knowing my boys are getting the best food, but the reality has been a challenge.
That’s when I accepted my first bags of donor milk. I was dealing with bronchitis and ended up in the ER. My cousin, who’s also a twin mom, overnighted me 17 ounces—yes, that’s a thing! It helped me survive a day of fever and dehydration. She didn’t think twice; she just called FedEx and made it happen.
Then at a community event, an old high school friend approached me with an offer. I hesitated, wanting to refuse help (who doesn’t?), but I said yes. Tears welled in my eyes as I accepted her generous donation of milk, delivered in 3-to-4-ounce bags. It got me through a significant growth spurt, and I honestly don’t know how I would have gotten through that week without it.
When my best friend had her baby, she started dropping off milk every so often, often with a coffee (I’m lucky to have great friends). When her little one was just six weeks old, she would pump a few ounces whenever I needed it. That’s what I call true friendship and support!
Then another amazing moment happened. A stranger on Facebook reached out after finding me through Human Milk 4 Human Babies. She wanted to help, and I ended up with a huge bag of pumped, creamy liquid gold for my boys. I cried again—this incredible gift didn’t just nourish my twins, it nourished me, too.
I know not everyone is comfortable with the idea of donating milk, and that’s perfectly okay. For me, accepting this support felt like someone holding my hand through the tough times. Motherhood is no walk in the park, and nursing can be an emotional rollercoaster. So to the women who’ve graciously given me this gift, thank you. You may not have realized the impact you’ve had.
You didn’t know how often I’ve felt like I’m “not enough.” Juggling two babies along with my beautiful daughter and wonderful husband has stretched me thin. You didn’t know about the accusations I faced for not using formula or for making different choices than others.
You didn’t know that right after my twins were born, a nurse told me not to be upset if they needed formula, and I wasn’t even off the surgical table yet. You didn’t know that I’ve been challenged in my parenting decisions, often questioning myself.
You didn’t know how much I celebrate when my boys stay above the 5th percentile in weight. You didn’t know that I’ve shed tears over this journey—countless nights nursing and rocking my babies, feeling overwhelmed and worried.
You didn’t know the relief I felt when I opened my freezer to find those Medela, Lansinoh, and NUK bags waiting for us. But now you do.
For more on the journey of motherhood, check out this post on home insemination for additional insights. And if you’re looking for resources on pregnancy, the CDC is an excellent place to start.
In summary, breastfeeding twins has been a rewarding but challenging experience for me. The support from family, friends, and even strangers through breast milk donations has been invaluable. It’s a reminder that while motherhood can feel isolating, there’s a community of support out there.