Twins Triplets and More

Twins, Triplets, & More!
Resource Guide for Multiple Pregnancy & Parenthood

June 2011 Edition www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf
Used with permission from http://multiples.about.com
Linda G. Leonard, RN MSN

Associate Professor, Emerita Multiple Births Specialist
Multiple Births Support Program University of British Columbia School of Nursing T201 2211 Wesbrook Mall Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5 CANADA E-mail: [email protected]
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http://community.babycenter.com/pcphoto/1873707
Parents-toDear Parents-to-be and Parents of Multiples

Before and after a multiple birth, you will likely have many questions. You may ask: How do I look after myself during a multiple pregnancy? How do I care for multiple infants? How will family life change for us? What kinds of help and support will we need? What is available? How do I find it? What equipment and supplies do we need? Are there any multiple-birth support groups, special prenatal classes, books, DVDs, websites, and organizations? This resource guide is designed for multiple-birth families living in Canada, particularly those in British Columbia and the BC Lower Mainland. The information provided augments your medical and health care. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have questions or concerns about what action to take, please seek the advice of qualified health care providers. Examples of products and businesses appear in the Guide for information purposes only and are not intended as an endorsement. I welcome your comments and suggestions about the Guide.
With best wishes,
Linda G. Leonard
Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011
Contents of the Guide

Dear Expectant & New Parents .. Before Your Babies Arrive Where can you get information & support? . Multiple Birth Statistics ................. Multiple Birth Support Groups ....................................................... Contacts for Multiple Birth Support Groups in British Columbia............... Triplets & More ................................................................................................. Nutrition and Multiple Pregnancy .............................................................. Massage, Relaxation, Physio etc. Employment Leave & Benefits Home Support & Childcare before and after the births ................ Car Seats . Need Equipment & Supplies? .................................................
Strollers, maternity & baby clothes, equipment, free samples
i 1 2 3 4 5 5 6 6 7 8 9 10 11 11 12
Infant Feeding Pillows & Breast Pumps .. Pregnancy Home Care Programs ............................................ Banking Stem Cells The Babies Arrive! .................................
Telephone Support & BCNurseLine ................................................................. 12 Parenting & Infant-Feeding Support from you community health team......... 13 More Breastfeeding Help while in hospital and at home . 14 Are they Identical or Fraternal? DNA testing ...................................................... 15 Special Circumstances & Multiples ..................................................................... 16
Lone Parents, Special Needs Children, Francophone Support Network, Bereavement Support, Adult Multiples
Sadness, Depression, Anxiety, Feeling Overwhelmed... there is help ............... 17 Home Safety for Multiples 18 National Multiple Births Awareness Day and Year ..
Multiple pregnancy 19 Parenting multiples 21 Parenting Triplets + 23 Breastfeeding . 24 Preemies . 25 Bereavement .. 25 PsychoSocial, Medical Aspects 26 For Health Professionals 27
18
Books ..................................................................................................................... 19
Videos/DVDs ......................................................................................................... 28 Online Resources ............................................................................. 30

Organizations, consultants . 30 Information, support sites ... 30 Triplets and more. 31 Breastfeeding 31 Complications 32 Special Needs.. .32 Depression, anxiety..33 Loss Bereavement ..33
Newsletters & Magazines ....................................................................................... Organizations ..................................................................................................... Multiples-Related Research ..... About the Author .
33 34 36 36
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Before Your Babies Arrive

Sources of information & support Parents of Multiples
Parents of multiples and multiples groups (p.4) provide needed information and support about multiple pregnancy, caring for oneself and the babies, and securing needed help. Your community health nurse (pp.13-14) may know of families with multiples living in your area.
Education Prenatal Education and Breastfeeding Classes

* Marvelous Multiples: Prenatal Education Classes for Expectant Multiple Birth Parents https://edreg.cw.bc.ca/Prenatal/Courses/MarvelousMultiples.aspx Series of 6 classes (includes breastfeeding class and class reunion) at BC Womens/Childrens Hospital. Offered 3-4 times/year. Register early; space is limited. $185. * Breastfeeding Multiples Single class at BC Womens/Childrens Hospital for expectant parents. https://edreg.cw.bc.ca/Prenatal/Courses/Breastfeeding.aspx $35. (Free if taking prenatal ed. classes) Register online or call 604-875-2169. [email protected] * Private prenatal classes for multiple birth parents (incl. 1 breastfeeding session for Vancouver/Richmond area residents) by Lower Mainland Childbearing Society 604-8781031, [email protected], or www.childbearing.org. Doula service available. * New Multiple-births prenatal classes 2009 3 hrs. DVD Developed by Lynda Haddon of Multiple Births Canada. $25 US funds. Free online preview. E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com * New Online Course: Babies in belly: for families expecting twins, triplets or more. 2009 Canadian. 5 classes with e-mail support for 9 months Developed by Vera Teschow, certified teacher (Ontario) and mother of twins. $97 US funds. Free online trial. Details: www.babiesinbelly.com/twins-prenatal-classes/ * See DVD/Video section (p. 28-29); Books; Internet Resources; Organizations * General prenatal & breastfeeding education classes are offered by several hospitals, community health offices, community colleges and private agencies throughout BC. * Expectant Patients in BC Womens The Prenatal Instructor will provide prenatal education or breastfeeding information at the bedside: ask your nurse to page her. www.bcwomens.ca/Services/PregnancyBirthNewborns/default.htm. For a Lactation Consultant call 604-875-2282. www.bcwomens.ca/Services/PregnancyBirthNewborns/HospitalCare/Breastfeeding.htm
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Multiple Birth Statistics

Number of births annually Canada (2008): 11,816 live multiple birth babies. British Columbia (2008): 1,252 live twin births (~630 twin pregnancies) and 38 live triplet or more births (that is, approx. 13 higher order multiple pregnancies). Percentage of births Multiple births (2008) account for 3% of live births in Canada and BC. In BC (2008), 1/35 births was a twin birth and 1/1,162 was a triplet+ birth. On a typical day in BC, 4 multiple-birth infants are born. Average length of pregnancy Twin pregnancy: ~36 weeks. Triplet pregnancy: 32-33 weeks. About 43% of multiples are born at term (37 completed weeks of pregnancy).. About 57% of multiples are born before 37 weeks. Preterm birth rate has risen, mostly because of early labour induction and an increase in preterm Caesarean delivery. Average weight at birth 48% of multiples weigh at least 2500 gm (5lb-8oz) (each baby) The average twin baby weighs about 2400-2500 gm (5lb 5oz- 5lb 8oz) The average triplet baby weighs about 1700-1800 gm (3lb 11oz- 4 lb). 10% of multiples weigh less than 1500 gm (3 lb) (each baby) Majority of multiple births in BC 67% occur to women 30 years and older and 8% to women 40 years and older. Multiple-birth rate Multiple-birth rate in BC dropped slightly in 2008. See Figure 8 below for trends 1986-2008.
FIGURE 8 MULTIPLE BIRTHS AS A PERCENTAGE OF LIVE BIRTHS BRITISH COLUMBIA, 1986-2008
Percent
5.0 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0
Multiple Births
Trend
0.5 0.0 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Year
BC Vital Statistics Agency (2010) Selected Vital Statistics and Health Status Indicators: Annual Report 2008
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MultipleMultiple-Birth Support Groups

MultipleWho Can Attend Local Multiple-Birth Support Groups?
Expectant parents & families with multiples (moms, dads, babies, siblings, grandparents). Note: Some groups are more family-oriented than others.
Multiples Why Should You Contact a Multiples Group?

Meet expectant and new parents, get information and tips on multiple pregnancy and parenthood, and receive the support that all parents of multiples need. Each group is different. Some have informal meetings and invite guest speakers. Others hold swap meets and sell used infant clothing and equipment. A few have a library of books & DVDs/videos for members use.
Is There a Fee To Join?

Yes, a small fee. Some groups are also members of the national organization Multiple Births Canada (MBC) or the regional Northwest Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs. Other groups are not affiliated. Families who do not wish to join a multiples support group can still become a member of MBC and benefit from their many services.
Multiples How Do I Find a Multiples Group Near Me?

See page 4. Or, contact Multiple Births Canada, a community (public) health nurse, or other health care providers.
What is Multiple Births Canada / Naissances Multiples Canada ?

Canadas national non-profit organization supports multiple-birth families during pregnancy and after the children are born. Services include printed materials, Multiple Moments newsletter, several support networks, advocacy, research, real life stories Connect and share through Facebook. NEW! Father Support Network -- [email protected] (Eric Novak) NEW! Declaration of Rights and Statement of Needs of Twins and Higher Order Multiples www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/documents/Declaration2010.pdf Great gift: Annual membership includes free electronic subscription to Multiple Moments and access to MBCs resources ($20 if not a member of a MBC affiliated group). MBC www.multiplebirthscanada.org Details throughout this guide. (Temporary address) PO Box 432, Wasaga Beach, ON, Canada L9Z 1A4 Toll free in Canada: 866-228-8824 NEW Local (Ottawa area): 613-834-TWIN (8946) E-mail: [email protected].
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MultipleB.C. Multiple-Birth Group Contacts

Vancouver & Burnaby
Updated September 2010
Nancy ([email protected]) 604-733-7549 General e-mail: [email protected] Web: http://vancouvertwins.ca Natalie ([email protected]) 604-987-0629 Sally ([email protected]) Web: www.northshoremoms.ca Gabby 604-894-6554 or 604-892-8454 Early Learning Centre Terri-Lynn ([email protected]) 778-395-3200 Web: www.fraservalleymultiplemiracles.org Charlene 604-592-9106 E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Web: www.richmonddeltamultiples.ca General e-mail: [email protected] Debby: [email protected] 604-468-8596 Sally: [email protected] 604-524-0589 Web: www.momsoflotsoftots.com
North Shore
North & West Vancouver, Horseshoe Bay & Squamish
Sea to Sky (Pemberton) Squamish Fraser Valley Multiple Miracles Association

Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Aldergrove, Abbotsford & Mission
Richmond-Delta
Richmond, Delta, Ladner, Tsawwassen & White Rock
PoCoMo Moms of Multiples

Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Burnaby, Port Moody, Maple Ridge, New Westminster
Vancouver Island Multiple Births E-mail: [email protected] Web: Association http://sites.google.com/site/vanislandmultiplebirthsassn/ Kelowna area Sharlene 250-769-7997 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.kelownamultiplebirths.ca Conni ([email protected]) 250-260-4388
Vernon Multiple Blessings Kamloops area Prince George area
Nancy ([email protected]) 250-372-0901 E-mail: [email protected] Karen ([email protected]) 250-964-4425 Or [email protected] Web: www.multiplebirthscanada.org/~princegeorge Web: www.nwamotc.org
Fraser Valley & POCOMO are members of NWAMOTC
Northwest Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs
Rest of Canada Multiple Births Canada Toll Free in Canada 1-866-228-8824 or Tel: 705-4290901 Fax: 705-429-9809 [email protected] Web: www.multiplebirthscanada.org
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Triplets & More...

Higher Order Multiples Support Network of Multiple Births Canada offers support, information and links to other expectant and new parents of triplets, quadruplets and more. Toll-Free in Canada 1-866-228-8824 E-mail: [email protected]. MOST (Mothers of Supertwins [email protected]), Triplet Connection [email protected], NOMOTC (National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs [email protected]) are USA-based organizations that offer information and support to Canadians. Parents of triplets, quadruplet and more, despite their hectic lives, are pleased to talk with expectant and new parents of higher-order multiples. Contact your local multiples group, Multiple Births Canada, or the US organizations listed above to link up with other parents. Books, Newsletters, Online Resources, & Organizations listed in this guide.
Nutrition & Multiple Pregnancy
Nutritional needs during a multiple pregnancy and while breastfeeding multiples are greater than those for a singleton pregnancy or when nursing one baby. Free counseling for BC residents: Childrens & Womens Health Centre of BC: Prenatal Nutrition Receive specialized and individualized counselling for multiple pregnancy by a registered dietitian/ nutritionist (RDN). No referral needed. Call 604-875-2330 Mon-Thurs 9 am-3 pm for information and appointment. www.bcwomens.ca/Services/PregnancyBirthNewborns/Clinics/NutritionCounselling.htm Dietitian Services at Health Link BC (formerly Dial-a-Dietitian--Funded by BC Ministry of Health) A registered dietitian will answer your questions Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm Call 8-1-1 or (604) 215-8110 Service available in 130 languages. Lots of nutrition information. www.healthlinkbc.ca/dietitian/ Books & Guides:: Calgary Health: Nutrition When You Are Expecting Twins, Triplets: (NB:
recommended weight gain and pattern of gain needs revisingtoo low)
www.calgaryhealthregion.ca/pem/PublicSearch?direct=displayPdf&number=605730; Canadas Food Guide: www.healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide; Food Safety During Pregnancy www.healthlinkbc.ca/dietitian/pdf/Food%20Safety%20During%20Pregnancy.pdf ; Luke & Eberlein: When You Are Expecting Twins, Triplets etc. Healthiest Babies Possible/ Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program (CPNP) Focus is on having a healthy pregnancy. Includes nutrition support for women. Offered in many languages. Vancouver 604-877-4672 or www.vch.ca/women/pregnancy/healthy_babies.htm; Richmond 604-877-4673 or www.rhss.bc.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=101-196-475 Surrey, Delta, White Rock: 604-5831017 or www.options.bc.ca/program_info.php?cat_id=10&program_id=17. Other areas: check CPNP: http://cpnp-pcnp.phac-aspc.gc.ca/src/canada.php?language=English, click on province, then on nutrition counseling.
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Exercise xercise, Massage, Relaxation, Yoga, Physiotherapy, Exercise, Pelvic Girdle Pain
Expectant mothers of multiples may benefit from services such as massage, yoga, physiotherapy, or a specially designed exercise program. Check with your health care providers first. Registered massage therapists specializing in pregnancy and postpartum: Lori Johnson RMT,
Soma Studio, 604-738-1502, www.somastudio.net ; Paula Jaspar RMT 778-896-3727 www.paularrmt.com
Maternity Support Bands/ Postpartum Support Binders Various abdominal/back support devices are available. Bands helpful to some expectant women with pelvic girdle discomfort, especially when walking. Contact: local physiotherapist or maternity hospital physiotherapist, medical supply stores. In Vancouver, e.g., Cross Roads Physiotherapy
www.crossroadsphysiotherapy.com or Care Centre www.mycarecentre.ca/maternity.html
Employment Leave & Benefits

Expectant and new parents may take extended periods of paid/unpaid leave from their places of employment.
Canada: Employment Insurance Parental Benefits

Parents may be eligible for a maximum of 65 weeks of combined sickness, maternity, and parental benefits instead of the normal combined maximum of 50 weeks of EI. If one or more of the babies is hospitalized, benefits can be extended further. Details: www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/ei/types/special.shtml, or call your nearest Human Resources Development Canada office. NB: The recent challenge of EI by a father of infant twins, resulted in the EI Board of referees ruling that both parents were eligible for EI benefits after the births because both had left their jobs to care for their babies and each could make separate claims, he for one baby and she for the other. However, the EI Commission is currently appealing this decision. www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/documents/MR-GovernmentAppealsEIDecision_000.pdf
BC Employment Standards Act: Pregnancy and Parental Leave

Expectant mothers in BC are entitled to up to 17 weeks unpaid pregnancy leave which can begin no earlier than 11 weeks before the expected birth date and in certain situations, can be extended 6 weeks. Details: www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/igm/esa-part-6/igm-esa-s-50.htm Birth mothers are entitled to 35 weeks of unpaid parental leave or up to 37 consecutive weeks unpaid parental leave if pregnancy leave is not taken. Birth fathers and adopting parents are entitled to up to 37 consecutive weeks unpaid parental leave. If a child has a physical, psychological or emotional condition requiring parental care, a parent can apply for an additional 5 consecutive weeks of unpaid leave beginning immediately after the parent leave. The 52 week maximum reflects the situation where a birth mother takes the maximum normal pregnancy leave of 17 weeks and the maximum parental leave of 35 weeks. The 52-week leave can be extended for special circumstances for a total of 63 weeks. Details: www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/igm/esa-part-6/igm-esa-s-51.htm Call 1-800-663-3316 or if in the Prince George area (250) 612-4100.
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Home Support & Childcare
before and after the births
Parents of multiples will tell you that reliable help on a regular basis is needed in the early months after the babies are born. Relying on friends and family to volunteer on an occasional basis is rarely effective. Multiple birth parents have tips on how to manage parenting, how to find help, and how to screen potential caregivers. They may also know of someone suitable. Government-subsidized help? There is little government-subsidized home or childcare assistance available to families with multiples. The Canada Universal Child Care Benefit provides eligible families with $100 per month per child under age six years ($1,200 annually/child). It is taxable in the hands of the spouse with the lower income: www.universalchildcare.ca/eng/home.shtml . If you havent completed a Child Tax Benefit Application for your eligible children, you will likely need to apply for the Child Care Benefit. BC families with low income may be eligible for some financial help: BC Childcare Subsidy: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/subsidy_promo.htm. If you have few support resources, contact your community health nurse, social worker, or physicianthey may be able to help you get some short-term assistance. Contact the Social Services department of your hospital or your local Ministry of Children & Family Development office (Blue pages of phone book). How can people HELP? People can assist before and after the births by preparing and freezing meals, housework, grocery shopping, doing laundry, walking the dog, looking after older children, preparing the babies room, holding/caring for the babies, keeping photographs up-to-date, watering/cutting the grass, shoveling snow, volunteering to drive, helping you get out for a break or appointments, and moral support. Ways to achieve extra help? Explore your own sources of family, friends, church, and community support. You can hire fulltime, part-time, live-in or live-out help for daytime and/or overnight. Some parents share caregivers with another parent. Others employ a nursing student or responsible teen during afterschool hours or on weekends. Some hire help from an agency or hire a nanny from overseas. See below for tips on hiring a babysitter; using in/out-of-home child care. Where can you find extra help? Nannies, birth doulas or postpartum doulas, sitters, childcare agencies, and home support agencies assist families with new babies. Check local universities/colleges for students enrolled in programs, e.g., nursing, doula, and early childhood education--Instructors may be willing to post an Ad for you. Responsible high-school students with baby-sitting experience can lend a hand. Check where nannies get together in your community e.g., community center, family place, local park etc. Some are seeking work and have posted Ads at these locations. The following are examples and not an endorsement of a particular business. Greater Vancouver doulas with twin/ triplet experience: Rose Hilton, postpartum doula: 604-733-7673, [email protected], www.vandoula.com; Mother Me Postpartum Doula Agency 604-524-1793, [email protected], www.motherme.ca ; Vancouver Postpartum Doulas 604-529-BABY (2229) [email protected]. General: Doula Services Association: www.bcdoulas.org/ DONA International (search for BC listings) www.dona.org Canadian Nanny: www.canadiannanny.ca
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and Canadian Sitter (college/university level sitters): www.canadiansitter.ca provide a free 2 month extension to multiple birth families. Live-in Caregiver Program (Govt. of Canada): www.cic.gc.ca/ENGLISH/work/caregiver/index.asp. International nannies: www.internationalnannies.com Yellow Pages and online-classifieds e.g., Craigslist. Choosing Child Care: www.healthlinkbc.ca/kb/content/special/aa43308.html#tk4023 and Parents Guide to Selecting & Monitoring Child Care in BC (2009): www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2009/Parents'_guide_child_care.pdf Licensed, registered, and unlicensed out-of-home care for children, including infants, is available. Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre provides info and referrals to Vancouver child care settings: 604-709-5651 Toll-Free: 1-877-262-0022, [email protected] or www.wstcoast.org.
Inquire about a caregivers background experience with infants and multiples, & approach to infant care. Check references yourself (even if hiring from an agency) and request that a potential caregiver undergoes a criminal record check. NB: If you are hiring a caregiver on a regular basis (not through an agency), check with Employment Insurance and Workers Compensation regarding the right of your employee to certain benefits.
Car Seats
All infants in BC must use an age-appropriate car seat, starting when they leave the hospital. 80% of child car seats are improperly installed or used. Have yours checked by personnel qualified to carry out an inspection. New and Used Infant Car Seats Use caution when buying new or used car seats. Ensure that they comply with the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS), New Transport Canada child seat regulations, have not been recalled http://sycs.bcaa.com/pdf/childseatrecall.pdfa nd are within the expiry date, Yes, car seats have an expiry date! Idea: check Consumer Reports for ratings. Preterm and Low Birth Weight Babies Many infant car seats are not designed to safely transport a premature baby that weighs less than 2275 gm (5 lb.) or that www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com/pic.asp?ID=216&type=1 has breathing or other difficulties. Your neonatal care team will advise you on safe transport of your preterm babies. Safe ride for children with special health needs:
www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/injury/roadsafety/Car%20Seats/SafeRideChildren_SpecialNeeds.htm
Infant/Child Car Seat Checks BC Womens Hospital, by appointment: 604-875-3273 or 604-875-3458. BCAA/ICBC Child Passenger Safety Program: Car seat workshops and inspections. Toll Free: 1-877-247-5551; www.childseatinfo.ca/11.aspx/ and BC inspection locations and dates: www.tsfbcaa.com Other locations: Checks with local health units and hospitals.
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Need Equipment & Supplies?

Talk with parents of multiples about their recommendations and places to purchase. * Recalls: Be aware that consumer product recalls due to safety concerns are common for all types of baby equipment. http://hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/advisories-avis/index-eng.php Strollers for Multiples: There is no one ideal stroller as circumstances vary for each family. Some models convert into different positions or have detachable car seats that can also be used as baby carriers. The Double Snap N Go frame accepts certain car seats (bottom). Guidelines for choosing a stroller: e.g., www.stroller-advisor.com. Check manufacturers sites: Baby Jogger, BOBgear, Chariot, Graco, InSTEP, Maclaren, Peg-Prego, Schwinn, Valco, etc.
Sources of maternity/ baby clothing, cribs, car seats, new and used multiples strollers Check department stores (e.g. www.sears.ca), maternity and baby specialty stores, multiples swap meets, children's consignment stores, online businesses, and for-sale listings e.g. BuySell.com, Craigslist. Contact local multiples groups to let them know of your needs. Cribs, mattresses and equipment Ensure that new and used baby equipment (e.g., cribs, high chairs, baby carriers, toys etc.) meet current safety standards (www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/childenfant/equip/index-eng.php). Avoid the risk of infant entrapment, suffocation, and SIDS: Do not place infants on an air mattress, waterbed, soft mattress, sofa etc.; do not use crib bumper pads (they restrict air flow); and do not use baby carriers or recliners inside a crib. Caution! Infant deaths have been reported: Certain cribs with drop-down sides pose a danger as an infant can get trapped between the mattress and rail and suffocate or fall from the crib when the crib-side drops accidentally due to worn plastic fittings. Sling-style baby carriers pose a potential suffocation risk to infants (especially those under 4 months, born prematurely or at a low birth weight, with breathing problems such as colds). For correct positioning of a baby in a sling: www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10165.html
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Clothes for Premature & Micro-preemie Babies Examples: (Canada) Ever So Tiny www.eversotiny.ca USA: Nurture Place Preemie Clothes Outlet www.nurtureplace.com, Discounts and freebies Check stores for discounts they offer on twin, triplet+ purchases; Google Search: e.g., free samples, coupons for Canadian babies. NB: Some companies sell your name/address to other companies.
Infant Feeding Pillows & Breast Pumps

Breastfeeding of multiples is strongly encouraged. The babies can be fed one after the other or at the same time at the breast and/or receive expressed breast milk. Breast & bottle feeding pillows especially for multiples. Various types and sizes of U-shaped pillows are available to support the babies when feeding. Many parents of multiples find the pillows helpful, others prefer to support the babies during feeding with what is already available in their home or to use a smaller-size nursing pillow. Sources: Check local maternity and baby specialty stores, multiples groups. Examples (CAD prices may not include shipping, tax) My Brest Friend Twins Plus Nursing Pillow ~ $110 www.mybrestfriend.com/products/twins-plus-pillow San Diego Bb Twins Nursing Pillow (Eco friendly, includes a privacy screen) $95 replaces theEZ-2-Nurse Twins Pillow www.twins2feed.com or [email protected] Parrish Twin Supply (Victoria) or www.bosum-babies.com or [email protected] $100 (Edmonton) Two-At-A-Time Nursing Pillow (Toronto) $95 http://nursingpillow.ca or [email protected] Ever So Tiny Nursing Pillow (Ottawa) $75 www.eversotiny.ca or [email protected]
www.doubleblessings.com
Baby Buddy Twin Nursing Pillow $175 Canada www.thebabybuddy.ca
Breast pumps are used to express breast milk when the babies are unable to suck effectively at the breast or when you want to offer breast milk via a bottle. Purchase or rent. Breast pumps vary in their effectiveness and convenience to use. A hospital grade electric pump (e.g., made by Hollister/Ameda/Egnell, Medela) with double collecting kit is optimal. Discuss options with lactation consultants, community health or maternity nurses, childbirth educators, and parents of multiples. Tax deductible when rented or purchased from a hospital. Safety Warning: If you plan to rent, borrow, purchase, or sell a used electric breast pump, consider acquiring a multiple-user pump versus a single user pump. Reason: With single-user models, there is a low risk of transmission of infectious diseases if any of the breast milk from the previous user has entered the pumping mechanism, even if you sterilize the parts or purchase new parts. Breast Pump Rental or Purchase BC Children & Women's Breast Pump Rental Service Tel: 604-875-3020, e-mail: [email protected]. Pumps are also available from selected pharmacies, maternity specialty stores, medical supply stores. For a list of rental sites, check with prenatal educators, maternity departments, and community health centres/units. Tax deductible if rented or purchased from certain agencies.
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Pregnancy Home Care Programs

The following programs provide home care and support to women expecting multiples who have certain complications of pregnancy, thus decreasing the need for hospitalization before the births. The expectant woman and her family are taught about the health problem and how to manage care at home. Womens Health Centre of BC Antepartum Home Care Program Women must live within 30 min. of BC Womens and be registered to deliver there. Daily contact and routine visits are made by the program nurse who closely monitors the mothers and unborn babies health. www.bcwomens.ca/Services/PregnancyBirthNewborns/HospitalCare/AntepartumCare.htm or 604-875-3557, 8:30 am-4:30 pm daily, for information.
Program Fraser Health Antepartum Care at Home Program is modeled after the program at BC
Women's. In addition, women who have severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy will be assessed and treated initially in the Family Birthing Unit at Surrey Memorial Hospital and will continue their treatment at home on the program. Women must live within 30 min. of Surrey Memorial Hospital, Langley Memorial Hospital, or Peace Arch Hospital. Call 604-587-3908, 8:45 am-4:15 pm, for details.
Royal Columbian Hospital Antepartum Home Care Program Women who are residents of
New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, & Port Moody, and live within 30 min. of Royal Columbian Hospital are eligible. Call 604-520-4182, 8:45 am-4:15 pm daily for information.
Banking Stem Cells from Umbilical Cord Blood after the Births
The umbilical cord blood of a newborn contains a high concentration of stem cells the building blocks of human organs, tissues and cells. Stem cells are capable of regenerating tissues and hold promise for treating serious diseases and injuries. During pregnancy, discuss with your health care providers the advantages and drawbacks of saving the umbilical cord blood at the birth of each of your babies and then banking it with a private agency. Check out companies qualifications and cost. Stem cell basics: http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics
Blood stem cells taken from an umbilical cord after delivery. From:
http://nature.ca/genome/03/d/20/03d_25_e.cfm
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The Babies Arrive!!

The in-hospital care team will help you with your medical and health care needs, introduce you to your babies and their care, offer breastfeeding, bottle and other feeding assistance (see p. 12-14), and help you plan for your and your babies homecoming.
Support ortwhen Telephone Supportwhen you are home

Information and support is as close as your telephone. It is provided by community health nurses with expertise in parent-infant health.
NEWBORN HOTLINE
604-737-3737
8:30 am-5:30 pm 7 days/wk
Residents of Vancouver & Richmond

Have your BC Care Card available. You can also contact your community health centre to reach a community health nurse (See p. 12-13). After 5:30pm you will be transferred automatically to the BCNurseLine.
NORTH SHORE 604-983-6700 FRASER HEALTH
8:30 am-5 pm Mon-Fri After hours, weekends & holidays: call BCNurseLine (see below) 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Mon- Fri
Contact your local health unit (See p. 14) After hours, weekends and holidays: contact your local health unit number for instructions on the number to call. Or call BCNurseLine (see below)
OTHER COMMUNITIES
Contact your community health office or hospital to obtain parent-information telephone numbers. Or, call BCNurseLIne.
BC Nurse Line 24 hours 7 days a week

Anywhere in BC
Toll free: 8-1-1
TTY/TDD: 7-1-1
BC Ministry of Health: HealthLink Registered Nurses will assist you with non-emergency health concerns of any family member. The RN will discuss symptoms, tests and procedures; provide information about health services/resources in your community; and recommend whether you should see a health professional. A pharmacist and dietitian are also available to answer questions. Translation services for over 130 languages. Have your BC Care Card available. More health information: www.healthlinkbc.ca, Tel: 8-1-1 or free copy of BC Health Guide.
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Parenting InfantParenting & Infant-Feeding Support

from your community health team
www.breastfeeding.com/helpme/helpme_images_twins.html
Your community (public) health nurse is notified by the hospital when you deliver your babies. The nurse will phone you, usually within 24 hours of your coming home from the hospital. Home visits and revisits can be arranged to assess how you and the babies are doing, weigh the babies, answer questions, and provide needed support. The nurse will tell you about new parent and infant services in your community and where they are offered (e.g., health centre, community center, churches). Before attending any drop-ins or groups, please confirm the days/times. Your community health centre, office, or health unit offers a wide variety of health services such as: . breastfeeding & bottlefeeding support by community health nurses and/or lactation consultants . newborn follow-up clinics; weighing, infant assessment, parenting information, and immunization of infants (+ older children, adults) . parent drop-ins and support groups, . home visits by community health nurses, . referral to Infant Development Program (for babies with developmental delays)
Centres/Offices s/Offices/Units Contact Details for Community Health Centres/Offices/Units

Vancouver

Mon-Fri
www.vch.ca/community/community_health_centres.htm
2110 West 43rd Ave. 1292 Hornby St. 2450 Ontario St. 3425 Crowley St. 6045 Knight St. 200-1651 Commercial Drive 604-261-6366 604-736-9844 604-709-6400 604-872-2511 604-321-6151 604-253-3575 604-233-3150
Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre Three Bridges Community Health Centre Raven Song Community Health Centre Evergreen Community Health Centre South Community Health Office North Community Health Office
Richmond
Mon-Fri
www.richmondhealth.ca/bins/index.asp Click on Infant. www.nscg.ca/services/maternity.cfm

604-983-6700 604-904 6450 604-904-6200 604-886-5600 604-885-5164 604-892-2293 604-932-4911 604-894-6939 604-485-3310 Contd
Richmond Population Health 7000 Westminster Highway
Vancouver Coastal HealthCoastal/Rural Mon-Fri

Central Community Health Centre, North Vancouver Parkgate Community Health Centre, North Vancouver West Vancouver Community Health Centre Gibsons Health Unit Sechelt Health Unit Squamish Health Unit Whistler Health Care Centre Pemberton Health Centre Powell River Community Health Centre
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Fraser Health www.fraserhealth.ca/find_us/services/our_services?program_id=9130

Burnaby TriCities (Coquitlam, Port Moody Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Delta-North Surrey-Guildford Surrey-North Surrey-Cloverdale Mission Chilliwack Hope 604-918-7605 604-949-7200 604-476-7000 604-507-5400 604-587-4750 604- 587-7900 604-575-5100 604-814-5500 604-702-4900 604-860-7630 New Westminster 604-777-6740
Port Coquitlam 604-777-8700 Delta-South & Ladner 604-952-3550 Surrey-Newton 604-592-2000 White Rock/South Surrey 604- 542-4000 Langley & Aldergrove 604-539-2900 Abbotsford Agassiz 604-864-3400 604-793-7160
Other Communities Call your community/public health office/centre or hospital for parenting support services in your community. See Health Authorities listing in the blue pages of the phone book.
More breastfeeding help

while in hospital and once you are home
Nutrition while Breastfeeding See p. 5 in this guide for sources of assistance. Lactation Service @ BC Childrens & Womens Hospital If you have unresolved breastfeeding or pumping difficulties while in hospital, ask your nurse to contact one of the lactation consultants (LCs) or call 604-875-2282. After discharge from BC Womens, the LCs will assist you with breastfeeding problems that dont resolve. For an appointment, call 604-875-3135. Other Hospitals If you are having breastfeeding difficulties while in hospital, ask to see a lactation consultant or a health provider with special breastfeeding preparation. Inquire about breastfeeding assistance in your community, preferably before the births. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants BC Lactation Consultants Association: www.bclca.ca Multiple Births Canada Breastfeeding Support Network E-mail: [email protected] and support via Facebook www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/me ssageforums.php/ Your local multiples group (p. 4) Karen Gromada, Breastfeeding multiples expert and author of breastfeeding book Mothering Multiples (USA) E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Web: www.karengromada.com/
triplets www.breastfeeding.com/art_gallery/Mom_photos_41.html
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Newman Breastfeeding Clinic & Institute: Dr. Jack Newman (Ontario) Info sheets and video clips www.drjacknewman.com See also in this guide: Books & Online ResourcesBreastfeeding Breastmilk Bank at BC Childrens & Womens Hospital Babies in BC who need supplements of breast milk beyond what their mother is producing may receive pasteurized donor breast milk from the Breastmilk Bank. Donors are also always welcome. For info: 604-875-2282 or [email protected].
www.doubleblessings.com/servlet/Page?template=testimoni als
La Leche League Canada BC Lower Mainland: 604-520-4623. Toll Free: 1-800665-4324 or www.lalecheleaguecanada.ca
Vancouver Breastfeeding Centre UBC: Dept. Family Medicine (Staffed by family physicians) For unresolved breastfeeding problems. Community health nurse, midwife, or physician referral required to make appointment. Visit cost covered by BCMSP. Suite 340 - 943 West Broadway, Vancouver. Tel: 604-738-1912 Email: [email protected] Web: www.breastfeedingclinic.com/index.htm
Fraternal nalWant Identical or FraternalWant to know?
With permission: Vera Teschow
Zygosity testing (examination of the DNA or chromosomal material) can be done to discover if twins, triplets or more are monozygotic (identical) or dizygotic, or trizygotic (non-identical or fraternal). Or, within a unit of triplets, quads, or quints some babies could be monozygotic and others non-identical. A fact sheet is available from Multiple Births Canada. Testing is conducted by a multiple births specialist Dr. Fiona Bamforth, Dept. of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Alberta Hospital for a reduced fee ($100 for infant blood or placenta testing; $190 for infant cheek swab testing). For more information, contact her @ 780-407-8851, FAX: 780-407-8599 E-mail: [email protected]. Private biotech labs also do the testing but for an increased fee.
16/36
Support Networks & Special Circumstances

HIGHER ORDER MULTIPLES FATHERS LONE PARENTS FRANCOPHONE SUPPORT SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN LOSS OF MULTIPLES ADULT MULTIPLES
Multiple Births Canadas Support Networks enable you to get needed information and contact other families: www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/networks.php Higher Order Multiples Support Network E-mail: [email protected]. Other sources of support and information for triplets+ are found throughout this guide. Lone Parents of Multiples Network (lone parents through divorce, military posting, widow/widower, financial demand or by choice). Multiple Births Lone Parent Support Kit available. E-mail: [email protected]. Special Needs Network (a multiple birth child or sibling with a physical or developmental disability, or a health condition; challenges of raising a gifted child). E-mail: [email protected]. Fathers Support Network especially for fathers, including expectant. E-mail: [email protected] Rseau froncophone dappui/Francophone Support Network (for families seeking French language support, connections, resources) E-mail: [email protected]. Adult Multiples Support Network E-mail: [email protected].
BEREAVED PARENTS & FAMILIES Sadly, some parents and families are faced with the death of one or more of their multiples during the pregnancy or after the births. Excellent bereavement support is available. Multiple Births Canada has a Loss of Multiples Support Network with excellent information and contacts for grieving parents and family members. There is a Bereavement Information Kit and newsletter: Forever Angels. E-mail: [email protected] See also: Statement of Rights and Needs of Deceased Multiple-Birth Infant(s) and Their Grieving Parents www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com/articles/ber_q29.shtml Lynda Haddon of Ottawa and Multiple Births Canada, has worked extensively with bereaved multiple birth families and provides excellent support. Telephone: 613-722-3325, E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. Web: www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com/bereavement.html/ See her Useful Web Links. CLIMB (Center for Loss in Multiple Births) www.climb-support.org, or [email protected]. See also Books & Online Resources for resources on the loss of multiples.
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Anxiety, Overwhelmed... Sadness, Depression, Anxiety, Overwhelmed...

Depression and anxiety may affect as many as 20-45% of expectant and new parents of multiples (moms and dads). Parents may experience a few or several of the following:
loss of pleasure and interest, feelings of emptiness, loneliness, going through the motions prolonged feelings of sadness, crying for no apparent reason loss of control of emotions, intense anger, feeling as if you are going crazy disturbed sleep and eating, loss of memory, difficulties with concentration feeling totally overwhelmed, life is out of control, highly anxious, having panic attacks feelings of helplessness, inadequacy, besieged with insecurities, sense of failure obsessive thinking: disturbing and frightening thoughts which keep recurring and which you cant put our of your mind, even when you try to fall asleep
feelings of guilt, fear thoughts of hurting yourself or the babies, contemplating death of self or babies. . Parents find it very difficult to tell others about these thoughts and feelings. . Many feel ashamed, fearful, or embarrassed. . It is important to realize that it is not your fault or that you are a bad person or parent. . Being a parent of multiple-birth children does not have to feel this way. . Excellent help is available.
Please contact: A supportive family member, friend, parent of multiples, health care provider Pacific Post Partum Support Society Tel: 604-255-7999 FAX: 604-255-7588 Web: www.postpartum.org List of resources, support groups & an excellent book: Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Self-Help Guide for Mothers, 4th edition. Your community (or public) health nurse, physician, other health care providers, Newborn Hotline (604-737-3737), BCNurseLine 24hrs 7 days/wk (604-215-4700 or Toll-free 1-866-215-4700) or a Crisis Line (number is on inside cover of phone book). Reproductive Mental Health (for depression, anxiety, other mood disorders) Web: www.bcwomens.ca/Services/HealthServices/ReproductiveMentalHealth/default.htm BC Womens Clinic 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver BC M-F 9am-4pm Enquiries and appointments 604-875-2025 Physician or midwife referral required for an appointment. See also Online Resources in this Guide
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Home & Outdoor Safety for Multiples

Multiple birth children are at considerable risk for accidents due to caregiver fatigue, difficulties in keeping an eye on two or more, and the creativeness of multiple minds working together to solve a challenge! Safety Tips for Parents of Multiples is available from Multiple Births Canada. BC Childrens Hospital Safety Station web site has excellent infant/child and home safety information and products for sale: www.bcchildrens.ca/KidsTeensFam/ChildSafet y/SafetyStation/default.htm. Click on icons near top of web page for specific rooms (e.g., bathroom, kitchen).
With permission: www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com
BC Childrens Home Safety Shop & Resources Centre: Get advice and purchase household safety equipment in Hospital lobby: M-Sun. Tel: 604-875-2244. Canada Toll free 1-888-331-8100.
National Multiple Births Awareness Day
With permission: www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/gallery1.php
Each year on May 28, Multiple Births Canada raises public and governments awareness about the distinct challenges and concerns faced by multiple birth individuals and their families. Theme for 2011: Prenatal education and professional support must reflect the unique needs of Canada's multiple-birth community www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/awareness.php or [email protected]
International Multiple Births Awareness Week

An initiative of the International Council of Multiple Birth Organization (ICOMBO). Celebrated 1st week of November on the years when the Congress meets (Next one 2013). E-mail: [email protected] Mom and newborn twins, Togo.
Photo A. Gabriel: www.soschildrensvillages.ca Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011
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Books Aplenty!
Where to Purchase? Check local bookstores. Some available from Multiple Births Canada www.multiplebirthscanada.org, Chapters/Indigo www.chapters.indigo.ca, Parentbooks www.parentbooks.ca/Twins.html or 1-800-209-9182. US Multiples Organizations, Twins Magazine. Online booksellers such as Amazon www.amazon.ca or www.amazon.com Some as Kindle edition. Where to Borrow? Multiple-birth support groups; public, college, or university libraries; BC Childrens Hospital Family Resource Library.
Alphabetically within the following sections: p. 24 p. 25 p. 25 PsychoSocial, Medical Aspects p. 26 For Health Professionals p. 27
How are the books listed in this Guide?

Multiple pregnancy Parenting multiples Triplets and more p.19 p. 21 p. 23 Breastfeeding Preemies Bereavement
Multiple Pregnancy
denotes also suitable for triplet, quad & more pregnancy. See also: ParentingTriplets and More, below
Before Pregnancy
Steinman, G., & Verni, C. (2007) Womb Mates: A Modern Guide to Fertility and Twinning Astoria: NY:
Baffin Books Considerations for women and their partners contemplating fertility treatment. Bit technical.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy: Twin, Triplet & More

Agnew, C., Klein, A., & Ganon, J. (2006) Twins! Pregnancy,
Birth & the First Year of Life 2 edition New York: Harper Collins By 2 MDs (USA) specializing in the care of high-risk pregnancies. Includes discussions with parents of twins.
nd
Birch, K. & Bleyl, J. (2001) Exceptional Pregnancies: A

Survival Guide to Parents Expecting Twins. Triplet Connection. Available: Triplet Connection.
Birch, K. & Bleyl, J. (2001) Exceptional Pregnancies: A

Survival Guide to Parents Expecting Triplets or More. Triplet Connection. Available: Triplet Connection.
Bowers, N. (2001) The Multiple Pregnancy Sourcebook:

Pregnancy & the First Year with Twins, Triplets, and More Chicago; Contemporary Books. www.marvelousmultiples.com .
3D Ultrasound of Twins during Pregnancy: www.babysdebut.com/3dultrasound-photos.htm
Cooper, C. (2004) Twins & Multiple Births: The Essential

20/36 nd Parenting Guide from Pregnancy to Adulthood, 2 Ed. London UK: Vermillion. Straightforward, by a UK MD & mother of twins.
Curtis, G., & Schuler, J. (2005) Your Pregnancy: Quick Guide To Twins And Multiples (Your
Pregnancy Series) Cambridge MA: Da Capo Pub. 1 author is obstetrician (USA) Have not reviewed.
st
Fierro, P. (2005) The Everything Twins, Triplets, And More Book: From Seeing The First
Sonogram To Coordinating Nap Times And Feedings -- All You Need To Enjoy Your Multiples Avon, MA: Adams Media Corp. http://multiples.about.com. Have not reviewed.
Franklin, R. (2005) Expecting Twins, Triplets, and More: A Doctor's Guide to a Healthy and
Happy Multiple Pregnancy New York: St. Martin's Griffin. Author (USA) is MD and mother of twins.
Lage, C. (2006) Twinspiration: Real-life advice from pregnancy through the first year. Lanham MD:
Taylor Trade Pub. Author is host of http://twinsights.com. Have not reviewed.
Le-Bucklin, K.-L. (2008) Twins 101: 50 Must-Have Tips for Pregnancy through Early Childhood From
Doctor M.O.M. San Francisco: Jossey Bass. Concise, easy to read. Author is pediatrician and mother of twins. Website: www.TwinsDoctor.com. Have not reviewed.
Leitner, G. & Kranz, R. (2000) Everything You Need to Know to Have a Healthy Twin Pregnancy New York: Dell Author (USA) is
obstetrician and mother of twins.
Lorenz, L. & Dieterichs, S (2007) The Multiples Manual: Preparing & Caring for nd Twins or Triplets, 2 Ed. 1002 tips from
multiples groupspregnancy to preschool. Author is identical twin and mother of triplets. JustMultiples.com www.justmultiples.com/
Have not reviewed.
Luke, B. & Eberlein, T. (2010) When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets or Quads: Proven http://community.babycenter.com/pcphoto/1848667 Guidelines for a Healthy Multiple Pregnancy 3rd ed. New York: Harper Based on current medical research. Nutrition and diet advice. Dr. Luke:
www.drbarbaraluke.com/multiples.cfm.
MOST (2010) Expecting Multiples: A Comprehensive Guide MOST (Mothers of Supertwins) Everything
you need to know about a triplet, quad or more pregnancy. Authors: MOST & Dr. J Elliott, specialist. www.mostonline.org Recommend.
Multiple Births Canada. Multiple Birth Parents Information Kit and other publications including
Special Delivery: Handbook for Parents of Triplets, Quadruplets and Quintuplets.
National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs-- Moskwinski, R. (Ed.) (2001) Twins to Quints:
The Complete Manual for Parents of Multiple Birth Children Nashville TN: Harpeth House. Sevenyear project with over 125 mothers (and spouses) producing the text.
Noble, E. with Sorger, L. (2003) Having Twinsand More: Every Parents Guide to Pregnancy,
Birth and Early Childhood, 3 Ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. Updated, revised. Recommendations for care are backed with research findings. Some controversial material.
rd
Rapley, Sandra Watson (2005) Intended Parents: Miracles Do Happen: A True-Life Success Story of
Having Children through Surrogacy. Lincoln NEB: iUniverse. One womans account of twin pregnancy through surrogacy. Have not reviewed.
Sparks, Brett (2009) Two or More-A Guy's Guide to Infertility Treatment, Pregnancy and Multiple
Births. Eloquent Books Real life experiences of father of triplets. Have not reviewed.
21/36
Bedrest during Pregnancy

McCann, M. A. (2006) Days in Waiting: A Guide to Surviving Pregnancy Bedrest, 3rd Ed. St. Paul
MN: deRuyter-Nelson Pub. Have not reviewed.
Tracy, A. (2001) The Pregnancy Bed Rest Book: A Survival Guide for Expectant Mothers and
Their Families New York: Berkley Pub. Very positive reviews.
Parenting Multiples
See also: Multiple Pregnancy; Triplets and More denotes suitable for parenting triplets, quads etc.. Blau, L. Bobbit, J., Carter, S., Davis, N., de Montesquiou, Gilbert, C., Mark, H. & Buccieri, L. (Ed.) (2005) Heart Two Heart : Words of Wisdom from the Real Experts: Seven Mothers of Twins on Raising
Twins the First Year Lincoln NE: iUniverse, Inc. Have not reviewed.
Bowman, K. & Ryan, L. (2005) Twins: A Practical Guide to Parenting Multiples from Conception to
Preschool Rev. Ed. St. Leonards NSW, Australia: Allen & Unwin. KB is mother of identical twins & LB is mother of non-identical twins conceived by IVF. Have not reviewed.
Boyle, C. & Stahl, C. (2008) Twin Set: Moms of Multiples Share Survive and Thrive Secrets. New York: Three Rivers Press. Have not reviewed. Canfield, J., Hansen M. & Heim, S. (2009) Chicken Soup for the Soul: Twins and More: 101 Stories Celebrating Double Trouble and Multiple Blessings. USA: Chicken Soup for the Soul Pub. Short stories, easy to read. Have not reviewed. Fierro, P. (2008) Mommy Rescue Guide Twins, Triplets, and More: Lifesaving Techniques and Advice
for Surviving Life with Multiples Cincinnati OH: Adams Media Corporation. Recommended by MBC.
Fierro, P. (2005) The Everything Twins, Triplets, and More Book: From Seeing the First Sonogram to
Coordinating Nap Times and FeedingsAll You Need to Enjoy Your Multiples (Everything: Parenting and Family. Cincinnati OH: Adams Media Corporation. Have not reviewed.
Flais, S. V. (2009) Raising Twins: From Pregnancy to

Preschool. American Academy of Pediatrics MD (Pediatrician) & mother of twins. Have not reviewed.
http://multiples.about.com/od/picturesphotos/ig/MultipleMultiples/blgal872.htm
Friedman, J. (2008) Emotionally Healthy Twins: A Books.
New Philosophy for Parenting your Twins as Unique Individuals. Cambridge, MA: Da Capo Lifelong
Gillespie, J. (2010) Magical Multiple Moments: Parents of Multiples Share Stories and Advice on Raising Happy, Healthy Twins, Triplets, Quads, and More! Deadwood OR: Orsi-Gillespie Pub. Mother of triplets, physical therapist, website http://triplettales.net Based on 250 moms stories. Have not reviewed. Gottesman, K. (2006) Raising Twins After the First Year: Everything You Need to Know About Bringing Up Twins--From Toddlers to Preteens. New York: Marlowe & Co. Have not reviewed. Gromada, K. K. & Hurlburt, M. (2001) Keys to Parenting Multiples, Rev. ed. New York: Barron's
Education Series. Concise, guidelines for pregnancy through to adolescence.
22/36
Heim, S. (2007) Its Twins: Parent-to-Parent Advice from Infancy through Adolescence. Hampton
Roads Publishing. Advice from many parents of twins/triplets. Positive comments from reviewer for Multiple Births Canada.
Heim, S. & Byrne, J. (2006) Twice the Love: Stories of Inspiration for Familieswith Twins,
Multiples and Singletons. Compilation of 82 inspiring stories written by parents and other family members about the joys and challenges of raising multiples. Publisher: Twins Magazine. Have not reviewed.
Lyons, E. (2007) Ready or Not Here We Come! The REAL Experts' Cannot-LiveWithout Guide to the First Year with Twins, nd 2 Ed. New York: Finn-Phyllis Press. Experiences and solutions from a group of friends (all twin moms) for the first year of parenting. Humorous.
Lyons, E. (2006) Ready or Not There We Go! The REAL Experts Guide to the Toddler
Years with Twins New York: Finn-Phyllis Press
Have not reviewed.
Mahony, E. (2003) Double Trouble: Twins

and How to Survive Them. London, UK: Thorsons. Authors experiences as a twin, mother of twins, and writer of monthly column in the Times: Double Trouble. Lighthearted guidepractical, down to earth, easy to read.
Going home after 3 months in the NICU http://bloggingboys.com/blog/category/nicu/
Malmstrom, P. & Poland, J. (1999) The Art of Parenting Twins: The Unique Joys and Challenges of
Raising Twins and Other Multiples New York: Skylight Press. 1st author is twin specialist. Raising twins, with emphasis on practical information for multiple birth families.
Mascazine, J. (2004) Understanding Multiple-Birth Children and How They Learn: A Handbook
for Parents, Teachers, and Administrators Author is university educator and [email protected]. Self-published: Authorhouse Print or electronic version. Have not reviewed.
McCarthy, M. (2005) 101 Indoor Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Triplet Tested! Pub:
Maria Skantzaris\McCarthy. Paperback: Amazon. Have not reviewed.
McCarthy, M. (2004) Potty Time for One, Two, or Three: A Parent's Survival Guide for Toilet
Training One Child, Twins or Triplets! Pub: Maria Skantzaris\McCarthy. Mother of triplets tells all. Paperback: Amazon or E-book from author: http://mysite.verizon.net/pottytime123 Have not reviewed.
National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. Moskwinski, R (Ed.) (2001) Twins to Quints: The Complete Manual for Parents of Multiple Birth Children. Nashville, TN: Harpeth House
Medical research, expert advice, practical "been there, done that" tips from numerous parents.
Pearlman, E. & Ganon, J. (2000) Raising Twins: From Birth through Adolescence New York: Harper
Collins. Written by a family, marriage and child therapist specializing in multiplespractical information for parents about twins physical, emotional and intellectual development.
Regan-Loomis, M. (2008) Juggling Twins: Tricks and Strategies from Pregnancy to the Toddler
Years. Sourcebooks, Inc. Practical, easy read. Have not reviewed.
Ryan, L., & Bowman, K. (2003) Twins: A Practical and Emotional Guide to Parenting Twins. St. Leonards NSW, Australia: Allen & Unwin. Based on interviews with 34 parents. Have not reviewed.
23/36 Saunders, B. (2006) Twins: Tips on Having TwoBirth to the Toddler Years Victoria, Canada :Trafford Publishing. Practical tips from a mother of twins. Have not reviewed.
Scalise, D. (2008) Twin Sense: A Sanity-Saving Guide to Raising TwinsFrom Pregnancy through
the First Year. USA: Amacom. Health care journalist and mother of twins. Have not reviewed.
Tinglof, C. (2006) Parenting School Age Twins and Multiples New York: McGraw Hill. Have not reviewed. Tinglof, C. (2009) Double Duty: The Parents Guide to
Raising Twins, from Pregnancy Through the School nd Years, 2 Ed. McGraw-Hill Concise, down to earth collection of insights and shared experiences from a variety of parents.
Tomlin, T. (2008) Chaos 2 Calm: The Moms-of-Multiples

Guide to an Organized Family. Texas: Sorted Out Pub. Parent teamwork, dividing up the work. Have not reviewed.
Free! Twin Magazine (various authors) Twins Guide to the First Year: Special Edition (2004) 40 pages of articles for
new parents of twins, triplets or more. Contains advertisements. Download at:
www.twinsmagazine.com/images/pdfs/2004_guide.pdf
also, see the site for Special Reports.
www.thisislondon.co.uk
Weissbluth, M. (2009) Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Twins: A Step-by-Step Program for SleepTraining Your Multiples. New York: Ballantine Books. MD (Pediatrician), child sleep specialist, author.
Parenting Triplets + More

Angelin, (2010) ADHD to the Power of Three: A mother's story of raising triplets Australia: Sid
Harta Pub. Also has website: http://adhd3.com Forthright, open, humorous.
Bedell, D. (2011) Raising Triplets: Our Journey from Surrogacy through Two Years Outskirts Press
Have not reviewed.
Clune, J. (2007) Extreme Motherhood: The Triplet Diaries London, UK: Macmillan Authors personal
experience: the rollercoaster of bringing three lives into the world. Have not reviewed.
Dilley. B. & Dilley, K. (1998) Sixty Fingers, Sixty Toes: See How the Dilley Sextuplets Grow New
York: Walker & Co. Photos of infancy to 4 years of age with simple, upbeat text.
Gaston, L. & R. (2009) Three Times the Love: Finding Answers and Hope for Our Triplets With
Autism Avery Pub. Challenges, joys, interventions, therapies. Have not reviewed.
Gosselin, J. Gosselin, K., Carson, B. (2008) Multiple Bles8ings: Surviving to Thriving with Twins
and Sextuplets Grand Rapids Michigan: Zondervan. Have not reviewed.
Hanselman, Jennifer (2006) Party of Nine: The Triumphs and Traumas of Raising Sextuplets+One Hudson, OH: Saddle Point Publishing Survival skills blended with humorous account of raising 7
children under age five (sextuplets born Ohio Feb. 2004).
Heim, S., Ed. (2007) Twice the Love Stories in collaboration with TWINS Magazine Heim, S., Ed. (2007) Its Twins: Parent-to-Parent Advice from Infancy Through Adolescence Stories
in collaboration with TWINS Magazine.
24/36 Kirbo, H. (2008) Triple Treasures: Our Journey from Infertility through the First Year with Triplets Selfpublished. Have not reviewed.
Koning Keelan, V. J. (2009) And Babies Make Seven Ontario: Septimal Publishing Memoir of a
mother with a brain injury from a car accident and her reflections and struggles on parenting a toddler and spontaneously conceived quadruplets. Recommended by MBC
Laut, W., Laut, S. & Benit, K. (1999) Raising Multiple Birth Children: Surviving the First Three
Years of Twins and Supertwins Worcester, MA: Chandler House Press Practical ideas on how to prepare for and cope with twins and higher-order multiples by a mom & dad of triplets.
Lyons, S. (Ed.) (2001) Finding Our Way. Life with Triplets, Quadruplets & Quintuplets Toronto:
Triplets, Quads & Quints Association 150 stories by Canadian parents and articles by health professionals. Pregnancy to adulthood. Highly recommend.
McCaughey, K. & McCaughey, B. (1998) Seven from Heaven: The Miracle of the McCaughey
Septuplets Nashville, TN: Nelson Pregnancy & first year with 7 babies & a 2 yr old.
McCaughey, B. (1999) Celebrating the Wonder of Motherhood: Intimate

Moments With My Daughter Mikayla and the Septuplets Nashville TN: Thomas Nelson
MOST (2010) Expecting Multiples: A

See Multiple Pregnancy section.
Multiple Births Canada (1998) Special Delivery: The Handbook for Parents
of Triplets, Quadruplets and Quintuplets 63 pages of helpful & practical information.
With permission from www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/gallery1.php
Multiple Births Canada: Higher Order Multiples Support Network: Higher Order Multiples Information Kit. Comprehensive info. on higher-order multiple pregnancy and parenthood. Schakelford, L. (2001) Triple Fun: From Infertility to Triplets Publisher: Schakelford House.
Family's story of overcoming infertility to becoming new parents of triplets. Emphasis on managing the babies and their lives without hired help Web: http://home.att.net/~lgshack/. Have not reviewed.
Stockler, Bruce (2003) I Sleep at Red Lights: A True Story of Life After Triplets New York: St.
Martins Press One fathers view of triplet pregnancy and the first three years.
Breastfeeding Multiples
Australian Breastfeeding Association Breastfeeding Twins & Breastfeeding Higher Order Multiples. PO Box 4000 Glen Iris, Victoria 3146 Australia Telephone: 61 03 9885 0855 E-mail:
[email protected] Online: www.breastfeeding.asn.au Booklet
Gromada, K. K. (2007) Mothering Multiples: Breastfeeding and Caring for Twins or More! 3rd Rev.
Ed. Franklin Park, IL: La Leche International Pub. www.karengromada.com. Excellent resource.
La Leche League International (2004) The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding 7th rev. ed. Franklin
Park, IL. Section on breastfeeding multiples plus other excellent breastfeeding advice.
McCarthy, M. (2004). Breastfeeding for One, Two, or Three: A Nursing Mother's Survival Guide for One Child, Twins, Triplets, or More Publisher: Maria Skantzaris\McCarthy. Mother of triplets
experiences and advice about breastfeeding three. Simply presented. Have not reviewed fully.
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MOST: Breastfeeding Multiples, 2 ed. Booklet Mothers of Supertwins. www.mostonline.org Multiple Births Canada www.multiplebirthscanada.org
Click on Publications: Booklets and Fact Sheets.
nd
Rudat, A. (2007) Oh Yes You Can Breast Feed Twins!: Plus More Tips for Simplifying Life with
Twins. Registered Dietitian, mother of twins, Self Published. Have not reviewed.
Sears, J., Sears, M., Sears, R., & Sears, W. (2004) The Premature Baby Book:
www.breastfeeding.com/art_gallery/art_images/album196/John.html Everything You Need to Know About Your Premature Baby from Birth to Age One New York: Little Brown & Co. Helpful breast/bottle/cup feeding info.
Preemies
Davis, D., & Stein, M. (2004) Parenting Your Premature Baby: The Emotional Journey. Golden,
CO: Fulcrum Pub. Two psychologists (USA) on pregnancy & parenting, including multiple births. Emotional experiences of parents, & suggestions.
Gunter, J. (2010) The Preemie Primer: A Complete Guide for Parents of Premature Babies from Birth
through the Toddler Years and Beyond. Author is ObGyn/mother preemie triplets.
Linden, D., Paroli, E. & Doron, M. (2010) Preemies:

The Essential Guide for Parents of Premature Babies, 2nd Ed. New York: Pocket Books. By 2 parents & a neonatologist (MD). Very positive reviews.
Sears, J., Sears, M., Sears, R., & Sears, W. (2004) The Premature Baby Book: Everything You
Need to Know About Your Premature Baby from Birth to Age One New York: Little Brown & Co. By 3 MDs & RN (USA). Informative, sensitively presented, excellent preterm feeding info.
Westby, J. (2002) They Will Know They Are Loved: A Familys Life with Premature Twins
1 month old: Kangaroo care by mom http://bloggingboys.com/blog/category/nicu/
rd
Minneapolis, MN: Kirk House. From premature birth to elementary school. Have not reviewed.
Zaichkin, J. Ed. (2009) Newborn Intensive Care:

What Every Parent Needs to Know, 3 Ed. Elk Grove Village, Illinois: American Academy of Pediatrics. Very positive reviews.
Bereavement & Loss of Multiples

Case, B. J. (Updated 2001) Living Without Your Twin Portland, OR: Tibbutt Pub.
0438 S. W. Palatine Hill Road, Portland, OR 97219 USA or from Multiple Births Canada.
Diskin, S. (2001) The End of the Twins: A Memoir of Losing a Brother New York: Overlook. Memoir of a
brothers 20 year battle with leukemia. Have not reviewed.
Hayton, A. (2007) Untwinned: Perspectives on the Death of a Twin before Birth UK: Wren Pub. Written
by a cousellor and researcher who is a wombtwin survivor www.wombtwin.com. Have not reviewed.
26/36 Howser, C. (2001) A Different Kind of Mother: Surviving the Loss of My Twins First Books Library. Personal account of the deaths of newborn twins.
Wegner-Hay, M. (1998) Embracing Laura: The Grief and Healing Following the Death of an Infant
Twin Omaha: NE Centering Corporation www.centering.org 20 pages.
Woodward, J. (1998) The Lone Twin: Understanding Twin Bereavement and Loss London: Free
Association Books. Based on the authors extensive therapeutic work with lone twins.
Woodwell, W. (2001) Coming to Term: A Father's Story of Birth, Loss and Survival University Press
of Mississippi A fathers story of the early birth, death of a twin, ideas for coping. Have not reviewed.
Psychology, Social, Cultural, Educational, Psychology, Social, Cultural, Educational, Medical Aspects
Arce, E.-M. EdD. (2010) Twins and Supertwins: A Handbook for Early Childhood Professionals St.
Paul MN: Redleaf Press. Consultant. Excellent guidelines for educators (and parents) re preschool.
Case, B. J. Exploring Relationships- Is Being a Twin Always Fun? (1996) and We are Twins, But Who Am I ? 1991) Tibbutt Pub. Co. Portland, Oregon or from Multiple Births Canada. Dreger, A. D. (2004) One of Us: Conjoined Twins and the Future of Normal Cambridge MA: Harvard
University Press Have not reviewed.
Byrnes, E. Stenzel, & Stenzel, A. (2007) The Power of Two: A Twin Triumph over
Cystic Fibrosis Columbia MO: University of Missouri Press An amazing story about living with a chronic health condition.
Friedman, J. (2008) Emotionally Health Twins: A new philosophy for parenting

two unique children. Philadelphia: DaCapo Press Psychotherapist specializing in treatment of twin issues is a twin and mother of twins. Received positive reviews.
http://multiples.about.com/od/dadsofmultiples/ig/Father-s-Day-PhotoGallery/blgal1056.-0eL.htm
Jussim, D. (2003) Double Take: The

Story of Twins New York: Viking. Stories about various twins, growing up as a twin, twins separated at birth, conjoined twins.
Have not reviewed.
Klein, B. S. (2003) Not All Twins are Alike: Psychological profiles of Twinship. Westport CT: Praeger.
Have not reviewed.
Kohl, S. (2001) Twin Stories: Their Mysterious and Unique Bond Berkeley, CA: Wildcat Canyon
Press Emotional, physical, and social dimensions of being a twin. Have not reviewed.
Mundy, L. (2008) Everything Conceivable: How Assisted Reproduction is Changing our World New
York: First Anchor Books. Raises the issues rather than drawing conclusions.
Piontelli, A. (2002) Twins: From Fetus to Child London UK: Routledge Development and behavior of 30
pairs of twins from early life in utero to their 3rd yr. Fascinating.
Piontelli, A. (2008) Twins in the World: The Legends They Inspire and the Lives They Lead New
York: Palgrave Macmillan Worldwide exploration of how various cultures regard twins. Excellent and distressing. [email protected]
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Pogrebin, A. (2009) One and the Same: My Life as an Identical Twin and What I've Learned About
Everyone's Struggle to Be Singular New York: Doubleday.
Quigley, C. (2003) Conjoined Twins: An Historical, Biological and Ethical Issues Encyclopedia
Jefferson NC: McFarland & Co. Have not reviewed.
Schein, E. & Bernstein, P. (2007) Identical Strangers: A Memoir of Twins Separated and Reunited.
New York: Random House. Separated as infants, adopted, part of a secret study on separated twins, reunited more than 30 years later.
Segal, N. (2005) Indivisible by Two: Lives of Extraordinary Twins Cambridge MA: Harvard University
Press. Joys and real-life traumas of twelve sets of twins, triplets, and quadruplets.
Segal, N. (1999) Entwined Lives: Twins and What They Tell Us About Human Behavior. New York:
Dutton Press Intelligence & personality, developmental & rearing issues affecting twinsand more.
Shapcott, T. (2001) Twins in the Family: Interviews with Australian Twins Melbourne, Australia: Lothian
Books, Available: Twins Magazine 50 interviews with twins from all walks of life. Have not reviewed.
Stewart, E. (2003) Exploring Twins: Towards a Social Analysis of Twinship, 2nd ed. Houndmills,
UK: Palgrave Macmillan. Have not reviewed.
Wagner, P. Spiro & Spiro, C. (2005) Divided Minds: Two Sisters and Their Journey Through
Schizophrenia New York: St. Martins Press. PSW has schizophrenia & C Spiro, MD. Have not reviewed.
Especially for Health Professionals

Blickstein, I. (Ed.) & Keith, L. (Ed.) (2007) Prenatal Assessment in Multiple Pregnancy New York: Taylor & FrancisInforma Healthcare. Blickstein, I. & Keith, L. (Ed.) (2005) Multiple Pregnancy: Epidemiology, Gestation, and Perinatal
Outcome, 2 Ed. New York: Taylor & Francis. Have not reviewed.
nd
Bowers, N. (2005) Care of the Multiple-Birth Family: Pregnancy to Birth. Nursing Modules. March
of Dimes. Excellent resource.
Gromada, K., Bowers, N. & Wieczorek, R. (Ed.) (2004) Care of the Multiple-Birth Family:
Postpartum through Infancy. Nursing Modules March of Dimes. Excellent resource for RNs, LCs et al.
Kilby, M., Baker,P., Critchley, H., Field, D. (Ed.) (2006) Multiple Pregnancy Royal College of
Obstetricians & Gynaecologists Press, London UK Multi-disciplinary contributors.
Leonard, L. G. (2006) Breastfeeding Multiples: Perinatal Care Guidelines

www.perinatalservicesbc.ca//sites/bcrcp/files/Guidelines/General/Gen3CBreastfeedingMultiplesNovembe r2006.pdf
Multiple Births Foundation (1997-2001) Guidelines for Professionals London, UK: MBF
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Keith, L., Blickstein, I., Oleszczuk, J., & Keith, D. (Eds.) (2002) Triplet Pregnancies and Their Consequences New York: CRC Press-Parthenon Publishers. Useful reference. Multiple Births Canada (2003) Professionals Support Kit Resources for professionals. Quintero, Rubn (Ed.) (2007) Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome London, UK: Informa Health Care Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (Dec. 2008) Management of Monochorionic Twin Pregnancy Green-top Guideline 51 http://www.rcog.org.uk/files/rcog-corp/uploadedfiles/T51ManagementMonochorionicTwinPregnancy2008a.pdf
Sandbank, A. (Ed.) (1999) Twin and Triplet Psychology: Professional Guide to Working with
Multiples London: Routledge. Series of articles by multiple birth researchers, clinicians.
Twins Magazine (2005) Childbirth Educator CD-ROM Contains 30 articles of interest to expectant and
new parents of multiples. www.twinsmagazine.com/childbirth_educator.html. Have not reviewed.
DVDs / Videos
updated 5/2011
To purchase, see Organizations for addresses not listed here. Videos that can be viewed at BC Womens Prenatal Ed. Dept. (604-875-2169) are indicated by W . Not for loan. Videos indicated by F-V or R-D are available to members of Fraser Valley or Richmond-Delta multiples groups. Check out YouTube.com for twin birth stories. Multiple-births prenatal classes 2009 3 hrs. DVD Developed by Lynda Haddon of Multiple Births Canada. $25 US funds. E-mail: [email protected] www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com Your Babies Journey: Twins, Triplets, Quads. 2006 100 min. DVD . Made for National Geographic. The first beginnings through to birth and
beyond --uses3D and 4D ultrasound. $25. Available: Rocket Rights: Web: www.rocketrights.tv/catalog/journey-to-life/journey-tolife/twins-triplets-and-quads or Amazon.com
Expecting More Than One: Pregnancy, Birth &

After (2003) Twins and Multiple Births AssociationTAMBA UK) 35 min. 16.50Follows several expectant 36 months pregnancy www.babycenter.com/fetaldevelopment-twins-images-gallery and new parents of twins, triplets. E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.tamba.org.uk/html/home.htm. W
29/36 Multiple Birth Video Guide (2001--Australian Multiple Birth Association--AMBA) 51 min. Twin & triplet pregnancy, parenting, breastfeeding. Detailed, realistic, graphic++ vaginal & Caesarean delivery, helpful hints from parents of multiples. Contact AMBA ($27 Aus+ postage) Web: www.amba.org.au or Birth International ($45 Aus) www.acegraphics.com.au/product/video/vt100.html. W
Multiples in the Womb: The Incredible Journey (2009) National Geographic Channel Videos. Womb Series= 4 DVDs (2 on multiples) $40 US.
http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/ngs/product/dvds/national-geographic-channel-dvds/science-andtechnology/in-the-womb-dvd-collection
Multiples: More of Everything (2009) Vol. 1: Prenatal through Birth 26 min. Vol. 2: At Home $
Breastfeeding 29 min. DVD $350 US www.injoyvideos.com/product.php?proid=102&page=Multiples
Your Multiples and YouConception to 6 months (1995); & Toddlers (1998) Nat. Org. Mothers of Twins Clubs, USA) 27 min min. & 35 min. DVDs $18 each (US). www.nomotc.org/ F-V Robyns Births (#B403 12 min.) & Nancys Births (#B 107 13 min.) Vaginal. Available: W Triplets: Putting the Pieces Together (Updated 1997-- USA) 27 min. Triplet pregnancy, hospitalization, Caesarean delivery, life at home with three babies. Available: W 1, 2, 3 Go! A Video Survival Guide for Expectant Parents of Triplets and Quadruplets (2004-- USA) 95
min. DVD ($20 US) & VHS ($10 US). Care during pregnancy and afterward with 13 couples and 5 health professionals providing information, stories and tips. (Have not reviewed.) Web: www.tripletsvideo.com/
Expecting Multiples (1999--USA ($40 US)

151 min.DVD By Leslie Montgomery. USA Web: www.expectingmultiples.com/ Pregnancy, labour/delivery, parenting, parent panel. Have not reviewed.
In Production! Finding Our Way - Life

with Twins, Triplets, Quadruplets and Quintuplets. Multiple Births Canada & Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto DVD
blogs.babycenter.com/momformation/files/2009/03/breastfeeding_twins.j pg
DVDs Breastfeeding Multiples DVDs /Videos

Side By Side: Breast Feeding Multiples (1992
Foothills Hospital Calgary) 16 min. VHS. W F-V & RD.
A Premie Needs His Mother: First Steps To

Breastfeeding Your Premature Baby (2002( DVD. Part 1: 35 min & Part 2: 21 min. Includes 2 sets of twins born at 29 weeks and followed for 5 months. Positive reviews. Author: Jane Morton, MD Clinical Prof. Pediatrics, Stanford Univ. Medical Center. ($125.00 US) www.breastmilksolutions.com/premie_needs.html
1 day old
http://bfino.wordpress.com/category/twins/
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Online Resources
CAUTION ! Some multiple birth information on the Internet may not be reliable or recommended by your health care providers. Last update 4/ 2011
Organizations & Consultants

See also: Triplets + More Information and support organizations for multiple pregnancy and parenting
Multiple Births Canadathe national organization www.multiplebirthscanada.org
http://multiples.about.com/od/picturesphotos/ig/TwinSibling-Photo-Gallery/blgal1187.-7Vy.htm
Multiple Births-Prenatal Education, Bereavement Support (Can.) www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com Sunnybrook & Womens Hospitals (Toronto) Multiples Pregnancy Health Centre www.womenshealthmatters.ca/centres/pregnancy/multiples/index.html Ottawa Coalition Prevention Low Birth Weight (Click on Multiple Births LBW ) www.lbwinfo.ca Best Start (Ontario): Prevention of preterm term multiple births (for service providers) www.beststart.org/resources/lbw_aware/index.html Motherisk Toronto Sick Kids-- Helpline nausea/vomiting, drug/alcohol, herbal and medication safety www.motherisk.org One at a Time: Better Outcomes for Fertility Treatment www.oneatatime.org.uk/index.htm National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. (USA) www.nomotc.org Marvelous Multiples Inc. (USA) (prenatal care info) www.marvelousmultiples.com Dr. Barbara Luke (multiple pregnancy researcher, dietitian) www.drbarbaraluke.com/index.cfm Multiple Births Foundation (UK) www.multiplebirths.org.uk Australian Multiple Birth Association www.amba.org.au l'association Jumeaux et plus (France) www.jumeaux-et-plus.asso.fr/ International Society for Twin Studies (click on Links : lots of info) www.ists.qimr.edu.au Center for Study of Multiple Birth (USA) www.multiplebirth.com Organization Teratology Information Specialists USA (effects of drugs, medications, chemicals on the fetus) http://otispregnancy.org/ Twin Services Consulting (P. Malmstrom, US twin specialist) www.twinservices.org Twinsight (E. Pearlman USA psychologist/therapist) Articles etc. www.twinsight.com Northwest Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs www.nwamotc.org Adoptive Families Association of BC www.bcadoption.com
More Information & Support Sites

New Declaration of Rights and Statement of Needs of Twins and Higher Order Multiples www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/documents/Declaration2010.pdf Medline Plus: Nat. Inst. Health Info: Twins, Triplets Multiple Births (USA) www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/twinstripletsmultiplebirths.html Preparing for Multiple Birth (Nemours Foundation, USA) http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/pregnancy/multiple_births.html March of Dimes (USA) www.marchofdimes.com/printableArticles/681_4545.asp
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Multiple Life: Online Community (Canada) http://multiplelife.ning.com/ Multiplicity-Dr. E. Pector (extensive resource list) www.synspectrum.com/multiplicity.html http://multiples.about.com Parenting of Multiples (P. Fierro USA) www.twin-pregnancy-and-beyond.com Twin Pregnancy & Beyond Twins Magazine www.twinsmagazine.com www.brandnewdad.com/engine/multiples.asp Brand New Dad Babies Today: Multiples articles (see dads) www.babiestoday.com/articles/raising-multiples www.raising-twins.com Raising Twins (pregnancy and beyond) Baby Center www.babycenter.com/twins/ & www.babycenter.com/baby/babytwins/index Twin Doctor (Dr. Kanh-Van Le-Bucklin) www.twinsdoctor.com www.twinstuff.com/default.htm Twin stuff Twins Today (informative articles: pregnancy-adulthood) http://twinstoday.com www.talk-about-twins.com Talk about Twins (C. Tinglof, author USA) http://mypage.direct.ca/c/csamson/multiples.html Facts about Multiples Twinslist.org (Articles, resources, useful links) http://www.twinslist.org/ Premature Baby/Child ( links to support, research) www.prematurity.org Stork Net www.storknet.com/ip/reproductive_years/high_risk/multiple_pregnancy.html Baby Zone: (In Search, type Twins etc. ) www.babyzone.com Get It Together! & Keep It Together! (Canada) Multiples prenatal & postnatal consulting/ workshops S. Ontario www.verateschow.com/twins
Triplets, Quadruplet ruplets Triplets, Quadruplets + More

Multiple Births Canada www.multiplebirthscanada.org Mothers of Supertwins--MOST (triplets and more) www.mostonline.org Triplet Connection www.tripletconnection.org Triplettales.net http://triplettales.net Families: twins septuplets http://dmoz.org/Home/Family/Multiple_Births/Personal_Pages
Breastfeeding Multiples
www.eversotiny.ca twins1.html www.raising-twins.com/breastfeeding-
Multiple Births Canada: Breastfeeding Support Network www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/breastfeeding.php Breastfeeding Multiples (Linda Leonard: Extensive guidelines) http://www.perinatalservicesbc.ca//sites/bcrcp/files/Guidelines/General/Gen3CBreastfeeding MultiplesNovember2006.pdf Karen Gromada (breastfeeding multiples specialist) www.karengromada.com La Leche Breastfeeding Multiples www.lalecheleague.org/NB/NBmultiples.html La Leche League Canada www.lalecheleaguecanada.ca
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Breastfeeding-Attachment Parenting http://breastfeedingtwins.tripod.com/MainPages/index.html Twin stuff ( 4 part article) www.twinstuff.com/breastfd1.htm Breastfeeding.com (In Search, type in twins, triplets or) www.breastfeeding.com Australian Breastfeeding Association www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/index.html Breastfeeding Higher-Order Multiples www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/higher.html MOST: Breastfeeding Higher Multiples www.mostonline.org/faqbf.htm St Johns Breastfeeding Alliance http://members.tripod.com/~sjba/articles.htm#twins Allaitement-Jumeaux et Plus (France+ Italian) www.allaitement-jumeaux.com Pumping Moms www.pumpingmoms.org Human Milk Banking Association of North America, Inc www.hmbana.com BabyCenterbreastfeeding special needs babies www.babycenter.com/refcap/8481.html www.bfar.org/ Breastfeeding After Breast Reduction and Nipple Surgeries LACTNET Listserv (info. & discussion for health professionals) http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
2 Days Old http://multiples.about.com/od/picturesphotos/ig/Triplet-Photo-Gallery/blgal512.--8D.htm
Complications
Sidelines: Support for Women with Complicated Pregnancies www.sidelines.org Selective Reduction Loss Support Multi-Fetal Reduction)Message board for families http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SelectiveReductionLossSupport U. Calif., San Francisco Medical Center: Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome & Treatment (very informative site) http://fetus.ucsfmedicalcenter.org/twin U. South Florida Fetal Therapy Center (Dr. R. Quintero) http://fetalmd.hsc.usf.edu/index.html Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation (USA) www.tttsfoundation.org Twin 2 Twin Transfusion Syndrome Association (UK) www.twin2twin.org Australian TTTS Support Group www.twin-twin.org/home.htm Monochorionic Twin Pregnancy (Royal Coll.Obs.&Gyn.) www.rcog.org.uk/womenshealth/clinical-guidance/management-monochorionic-twin-pregnancy Monoamniotic Monochorionic Support Site http://monoamniotic.org Conjoined Twins (Mayo Clinic) www.mayoclinic.org/feature-articles/conjoined-twins.html Conjoined Twins (Univ. Maryland) www.umm.edu/conjoined_twins/facts.htm Vanishing Twin Syndrome www.vanishingtwin.com
Multiples with Special Needs

Multiple Births Canada Twins/Multiples (AUS) www.multiplebirthscanada.org/english/specialneeds.php www.twinsandmultiples.org/special_needs/index.htm
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Depression & Anxiety before & after the birthsmoms & dads
Pacific Post Partum Support Society (Canada) www.postpartum.org Reproductive Mental Health at BC Womens www.bcwomens.ca/Services/HealthServices/ReproductiveMentalHealth/default.htm www.postpartum.net Postpartum Support International (PSI) USA Excellent links www.depressionafterdelivery.com Depression After Delivery (DAD) USA Postpartum Dads (postpartum depression help for dads) www.postpartumdads.org
Indoor -Outdoor Activities for Babies, Toddlers, Older Kids, & their Parents! Kids,
Kids Vancouver (Greater Vancouver) www.kidsvancouver.com
Loss & Bereavement Information & Support

Bereavement Support (Canada) www.multiplebirthsfamilies.com/bereavement.html www.climb-support.org CLIMB (Center for Loss in Multiple Birth) eLIMBO (electronicLoss In Multiple Birth Outreach) www.groups.yahoo.comgroupeLIMBO www.public.iastate .edu~cjenkslambs.html LAMBS (Loss of All in Multiple Birth Support) Multiplicity Dr. E. Pector: Loss, Prematurity, Special Needs www.synspectrum.com/multiplicity.html Twin & Multiple Birth Loss (New Zealand) www.twinloss.org.nz Australian Multiple Birth Bereavement Support www.amba.org.au/bereavement.php International Soc. for Twin Studies: see Bereavement Links www.ists.qimr.edu.au/links.html Australian Twinless Twins http://australiantwinlesstwins.com Twinless Twin Support Groups http://twinless-twins-support-group.meetup.com Wombtwin (Loss of a twin during pregnancy) (UK) www.wombtwin.com
Newsletters & Magazines

MULTIPLE MOMENTS 4 issues/year. Electronic subscription $5/yr members; $10/yr non-members. Multiple Births Canada PO Box 432, Wasaga Beach, ON, Canada L9Z 1A4 (Temporary address). Toll Free Canada 1-866-228-8824 E-mail: [email protected] www.multiplebirthscanada.org TWINS Magazine 8 Digital issues/yr: $20/yr. US; 4 Print & 4 Digital issues $46/yr US. Also, Sourcebooks I & II and Special Reports: PO Box 271924 Fort Collins, CO 80527-1924 Tel: 970-377-1392. E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.twinsmagazine.com Triplet Connection Magazine 4 issues/year-print ~$29 US includes TC membership. For families expecting or who have triplets or more. P.O. Box 429, Spring City, Utah 84662 Tel: 435-851-1105 Web: www.tripletconnection.org COMBO Newsletter (Council of Multiple Birth Organizations) Free from Web: www.ists.qimr.edu.au/
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Organizations
(see also Online Resources)
Canada
Multiple Births Canada/ Naissances multiples Canada (MBC) PO Box 432, Wasaga Beach, ON, Canada L9Z 1A4 (Temporary address) Toll Free in Canada 1-866-228-8824 NEW Local (Ottawa area): 613-834-TWIN (8946) E-mail: [email protected]. Web: www.multiplebirthscanada.org. Motherisk (Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto) (Helpline for nausea/vomiting, substance and alcohol use, HIV, medication safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding: 1-800-436-8477. Web: www.motherisk.org.
USA & International Organizations

Australian Multiple Birth Association PO Box 105, Coogee NSW 2034 Australia E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.amba.org.au COMBO (Council of Multiple Birth Organizations) Working group of International Society Twin Studies E-mail: [email protected] Web: http://web.mac.com/madcock313/Site/Welcome.html Marvelous Multiples, Inc. Nancy Bowers: Childbirth education for expectant multiple birth families and resources for health professionals. P.O. Box 381164 Birmingham, AL 35238 USA Tel:205-437-3575 Fax 205437-3574 E-mail: [email protected] or Web: www.marvelousmultiples.com. Mothers of Supertwins (MOST) For families of triplets quads and morepregnancy and after. International membership. Articles, booklets, support. P.O. Box 306 East Islip, NY 11730 USA Tel: 631-859-1110 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.mostonline.org. Multiple Births Foundation (UK) Twins and more. 5 Hammersmith House Level 4, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0HS. UK Tel: 0208 383 3519 Fax: 0208 383 3041 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.multiplebirths.org.uk.
http://community.babycenter.com/pcphoto/12584
National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs Inc. Twins and more. Executive Office, 2000 Mallory Lane Suite 130-600 Franklin, TN 37067-8231 USA Tel: 248-231-4480 [email protected] Web: www.nomotc.org. Northwest Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs NWAMOTC Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington & British Columbia Web: www.nwamotc.org/.
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Triplet Connection Consultation re triplets, quads etc. with Janet Bleyl. International membership. P.O. Box 429, Spring City, Utah USA 84662 Tel: 435-851-1105 Fax: 435-462-7466 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.tripletconnection.org. Twin Services Consulting (USA) Consultation with Pat Malmstrom. E-mail: [email protected] or Web: www.twinservices.org Twinsight Consultation with E. Pearlmanpsychologist and therapist. 1137 Second Street Suite 109 Santa Monica, CA USA 90403 Tel: 310-458-1373 FAX: 310-4518761 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.twinsight.com.
Special Circumstances & Complications

Human Milk Banking Association of North America, Inc Screened, tested & pasteurized breast milk is available. 1500 Sunday Drive, Suite 102 Raleigh, NC 27607 USA Tel: 919-861-4530 e-mail: [email protected] or Web: www.hmbana.org Monoamniotic-Monochorionic Support Site e-mail: [email protected] Web: http://monoamniotic.org. Sidelines National Support Network (USA) For women with complicated pregnancies & their families. P.O. Box 1808 Laguna Beach, CA 92652 Toll Free: 888-447-4754 (HI-RISK4) Fax: (949) 497-5598 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.sidelines.org. Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) Foundation Inc. See List of treatment centers. 411 Longbeach Pkwy, Bay Village, OH 44140 USA Tel:440-899-8887 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.tttsfoundation.org.
Abby & Belle, conjoined twins were separated successfully at Mayo Clinic www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12905838/
Bereavement
Center for Loss in Multiple Birth, Inc. (CLIMB) c/o Jean Kollantai P.O. Box 91377, Anchorage, AK USA 99509 Tel: 907-222-5321 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.climb-support.org. Parent-to-parent support for those who have experienced the death of one or more multiple birth children from conception to early childhood. Also, to assist extended families, caregivers, twins and multiples organizations Twinless Twins PO Box 980481, Ypsilanti, MI USA 48198-0481 Toll-free: 1-888-205-8962 Email: [email protected] (Linda Pountney, Vice President)
36/36
MultiplesMultiples-Related Research ples

Two types: 1 research to increase our understanding of multiple pregnancy, twin & triplet development, parenting multiples; 2 research to uncover the origins of health problems and human behaviour by using twins etc. as research subjects: genetic or environmentalnature or nurture?
1
Center for Study of Multiple Birth Suite #464, 333 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL USA 60611 Tel: 312-926-7498 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.multiplebirth.com/
Twin Studies Nancy L. Segal, PhD Professor of Psychology & Director of Twin Studies Center, California State University, P.O. Box 6846 Fullerton, CA 92834 6846 USA Tel: 657-278-2142 Email: [email protected]. Web: http://hss.fullerton.edu/psychology/facultypage/nsegal.asp. Twin Study at Harvard S. Pinker, PhD and J. Ganger, PhD. Long-term study of language development in monozygotic and dizygotic twins to determine importance of nature and nurture in language development. E-mail: [email protected]. Web: http://twins.wjh.harvard.edu/ UBC Twin Project Largest in Canada. Several infant and adult studies. Kerry Jang, PhD UBC Department of Psychiatry, Tel: 604-822-7957 or 604-822-7969 e-mail:[email protected]. Collaborative work with Dr. P .A. Vernon, Dept. Psychology, University of Western Ontario. Check: Multiple birth organizations for research projects. E.g., NOMOTC: www.nomotc.org Click on Research on side bar. International Society for Twin Studies: www.ists.qimr.edu.au/links.html#Twin%20reg University of Colorado Research Links: http://ibgwww.colorado.edu/lts/links.htm
2 1&2
about the Author

Linda Leonard developed and operates the UBC Multiple Births Support Program which provides informational support to families expecting or raising multiple birth children and to their health care providers. She is a member of the Advisory Board of Multiple Births Canada and has published extensively in the professional and parent literature.
The Guide is updated twice annually with web support provided by the UBC School of Nursing. The Guide is copyrighted but may be reproduced in its entirety without the authors permission when used for parent reference or educational purposes.

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Twins, Triplets, & More!

Resource Guide for Multiple Pregnancy & Parenthood

Used with permission from http://multiples.about.com

Linda G. Leonard, RN MSN

Parents-toDear Parents-to-be and Parents of Multiples

With best wishes,

Contents of the Guide

Videos/DVDs ......................................................................................................... 28 Online Resources ............................................................................. 30

Before Your Babies Arrive

Education Prenatal Education and Breastfeeding Classes

Multiple Birth Statistics

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

MultipleMultiple-Birth Support Groups

Multiples Why Should You Contact a Multiples Group?

Is There a Fee To Join?

Multiples How Do I Find a Multiples Group Near Me?

What is Multiple Births Canada / Naissances Multiples Canada ?

MultipleB.C. Multiple-Birth Group Contacts

Updated September 2010

Sea to Sky (Pemberton) Squamish Fraser Valley Multiple Miracles Association

PoCoMo Moms of Multiples

Vernon Multiple Blessings Kamloops area Prince George area

Northwest Association of Mothers of Twins Clubs

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Triplets & More...

Nutrition & Multiple Pregnancy

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Employment Leave & Benefits

Canada: Employment Insurance Parental Benefits

BC Employment Standards Act: Pregnancy and Parental Leave

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Home Support & Childcare

before and after the births

Need Equipment & Supplies?

Infant Feeding Pillows & Breast Pumps

Baby Buddy Twin Nursing Pillow $175 Canada www.thebabybuddy.ca

Pregnancy Home Care Programs

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

The Babies Arrive!!

Support ortwhen Telephone Supportwhen you are home

8:30 am-5:30 pm 7 days/wk

Residents of Vancouver & Richmond

NORTH SHORE 604-983-6700 FRASER HEALTH

BC Nurse Line 24 hours 7 days a week

Toll free: 8-1-1

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Parenting InfantParenting & Infant-Feeding Support

Centres/Offices s/Offices/Units Contact Details for Community Health Centres/Offices/Units

www.richmondhealth.ca/bins/index.asp Click on Infant. www.nscg.ca/services/maternity.cfm

Richmond Population Health 7000 Westminster Highway

Vancouver Coastal HealthCoastal/Rural Mon-Fri

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Fraser Health www.fraserhealth.ca/find_us/services/our_services?program_id=9130

More breastfeeding help

Fraternal nalWant Identical or FraternalWant to know?

With permission: Vera Teschow

Support Networks & Special Circumstances

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011

Anxiety, Overwhelmed... Sadness, Depression, Anxiety, Overwhelmed...

Linda G. Leonard; [email protected]. www.nursing.ubc.ca/pdfs/twinstripletsandmore.pdf June 2011