Been feeling that I’m not my best self for months now. I feel overwhelmed but I know I can give more. I catch myself at times trying to think but my mind is just blank. I speak and frequently lose my train of thought. I would second guess myself even with the things I used to do well.
So the other day while the twins were nursing, I asked my knowledgeable friend if having twins sort of double postpartum symptoms and what these symotoms are. “Giving birth to twins does not necessarily double postpartum symptoms, but it can intensify or increase the likelihood of certain physical, emotional, and psychological challenges.”
- Physical recovery is more intense. There’s greater fatigue from labor especially if C-section. Increased blood loss is more common with twins, increasing the risk of anemia. There’s also a longer healing time.
- Hormonal shifts is not exactly doubled, but more turbulent. It affects mood, lactation, and sleep.
- There’s higher demand but not necessarily double supply of milk. With two babies ,your body adjusts eventually but it can take a toll physically and emotionally.
- Emotional and mental load is often significantly increased. Caring for two newborns can feel overwhelming. Sleep deprivation is often more severe, especially if both babies wake up at different times at night. Greater risk of burnout, stress, and emotional overwhelm.
- Practical challenges exist too—less time for self-care. Double logistics takes a toll too: diaper changes, feedings, soothing, carrying, medical appointments, and the list goes on.
I realize that even with two helpers, my body and brain are recovering from the physical trauma of birth, sleep disruption (night wakings, late feeds, hormonal shifts) that’s extended compared to having a single baby, and cognitive strain (“mom brain” from the extended sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and mental overload), among other things that go on with life.
The fragmented attention is also a reality, having an 8yo and 3yo on top of newborn twins. It feels—if not actually—impossible to give enough to everyone all the time. It’s like I could always give more, but no more.
How do all these show up? The same knowledgeable friend, ChatGPT, articulated basically what was going on—”brain fog, forgetfulness, physical exhaustion even after a full night’s rest (if that ever happens), short temper or emotional reactivity, feeling ‘guilty for not doing more’ despite doing everything, a sense of disconnection from self, spouse, or even from God at times.”
Don’t feel too bad for me though! Recently I also shared what I’ve been going through with seasoned parents who have at least four kids. It was reassuring that what I’m going through is normal for working moms with young kids (with twin babies!) and that it’s nothing more than the reality of our current season. Now that I finally articulated what’s been going on, I get to make practical solutions and glean from the experiences of those who have been through the same experience. Will share soon what’s been working. 🙂
