What to Anticipate After Welcoming Triplets

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By: Jessica Lane

Updated: December 2, 2016 | Originally Published: August 26, 2012

During my pregnancy with triplets, I eagerly devoured the book What to Expect When You’re Expecting. I found a brief section at the end that touched on multiple births and read it repeatedly, desperate to absorb every piece of information. When my water broke at 34 weeks, I felt prepared and empowered, ready to take on the delivery room with confidence.

However, I quickly realized that there was a significant chapter missing from my reading—one that dealt with the challenges faced by mothers in the weeks following the birth of multiples. Having experienced this firsthand, I can now share insights that aren’t often discussed. Here’s what you can expect after giving birth to triplets:

1. Initial Separation: You may only get a fleeting five-second glimpse of your babies before they are whisked away to another room for evaluation. It’s completely normal if you can’t hold them right away; they’re receiving the care they need. You will get to see them soon.
2. Memory Lane: In the recovery room, you may spend hours trying to recall those brief images of your little ones. What color hair did they have? Was one of them already showing hints of curls? These fleeting thoughts will help you pass the time.
3. Post-Delivery Reality: Once you’re taken to your room, you may still be connected to an IV and catheter, and you might feel a pang of envy as family members, who have already met the babies, share their thoughts on who they resemble. You’ll hold onto the Polaroid photos from the NICU like they’re priceless treasures because, to you, they truly are. Don’t hesitate to assertively protect those photos from anyone trying to invade your space.
4. The Journey to NICU: It may take several hours before you feel strong enough to sit in a wheelchair and visit your babies in the NICU, IV stand and catheter bag in tow. At this point, you might be willing to do anything to see them—perhaps even driving your hospital bed if necessary!
5. Navigating the NICU: Picking up your babies will require careful maneuvering through monitor wires and possibly breathing tubes. The environment will be bustling and noisy, with an orchestra of beeping monitors. But the moment you’re holding your little ones in your arms will be worth it.
6. Different Terminology: While mothers of full-term babies might discuss milestones like meconium and baby weights, your experience will likely involve terms like bradycardia and oxygen levels. You’ll have regular meetings with the NICU staff, which may feel overwhelming, but remember that you’re doing something incredible by being a triplet mom.
7. The Discharge Dilemma: Being wheeled out with flowers and balloons while leaving your babies behind can be one of the hardest emotional challenges. It’s common to feel a wave of sadness as you wait for your partner to pick you up. Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions; crying can be cathartic.
8. Emotional and Physical Strain: You might find yourself stretched thin, balancing recovery from your C-section with daily trips to the hospital. The physical strain of sitting in uncomfortable chairs for hours will make you yearn for your own soft bed at home. Take it one day at a time; this phase will pass.
9. Staggered Discharges: It’s unlikely that all your babies will be discharged simultaneously. This can heighten the emotional and physical demands on you. As you continue healing and managing nighttime feedings at home, don’t hesitate to ask family and friends for help. They will want to support you.
10. Breastfeeding Challenges: The NICU staff will emphasize the importance of providing breast milk, but the reality is that breastfeeding may not be an option initially due to your babies’ condition. You might feel pressure to pump, but exhaustion may hinder your supply. Remember, it’s okay to consider formula as an alternative; your well-being is important too.

While some of these experiences may be daunting, knowledge is empowering. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare mentally.

The good news is that things will improve sooner than you might think. Once your babies are all home, you can establish a routine. When family offers to help, don’t hesitate to delegate tasks like laundry or dishwashing instead of solely focusing on baby care. Enjoy those rare moments of uninterrupted rest; it is essential for your recovery.

In no time, your triplets will be seven years old, and you may find yourself reflecting on how quickly time has passed. You might even wish for just one day to hold those small, precious bodies in your arms again.

For more information on pregnancy, visit this excellent resource, Healthline. And if you’re looking into home insemination options, check out this post about home intracervical insemination syringe kits and explore fertility boosters for men to enhance your journey.

Summary

Expecting triplets can be a life-altering experience. From the initial separation after birth to the emotional struggles during recovery, it is essential to prepare for what lies ahead. While the journey may be challenging, seeking support, managing expectations, and prioritizing your well-being will help you navigate this unique chapter of motherhood.