How to Ease the Stress of Having Twins

If you have a large circle of acquaintances you are blessed. Do you have ones that will sit with you and help change diapers? Do you have anyone who will keep your other children for several days that you can depend on? Don't assume--ask. If you can't get satisfactory answers, then it's time to expand your network. See the Resources section below for a link to the National Organization of Mothers with Twins.

Now that you have expanded your circle of potential helpers, you need to make two schedules. The first one is for shopping. If you are lucky enough to receive contributions for supplies, you still need a list of what you need on hand. You are lucky if this isn't your first pregnancy, the previous ones give you knowledge of required supplies. No one can cope with shopping for all this at once. It's too time consuming and way too costly. From the moment you know twins are coming, you will ease your journey by making lists. Outline what you are going to buy on each pay day until your due date.

The next list is a schedule of helpers for the first few weeks. If you have other young children, they need to be away at least for a week. The only time you have chance to rest is when the babies doze off. Make a list of possible friends to call for each assignment. Don't be satisfied with one. You need Plan B for every detail.