We've Got Answers For You

Here are some answers to questions we received.

Since you are breastfeeding as well as bottle-feeding, how do you keep track of who is next and what they get? Do you nurse two at a time (tandem) or just one at a time?
We keep a log of feedings and diaper changes. The babies are rotated. One baby is nursed and the other 2 receive a bottle. At the next feeding, the nursed baby is rotated out and another baby rotated in for nursing. The other 2 receive bottles. If the nursed baby still acts hungry after finishing, it gets a bottle just to help fill them up. All are supplemented with a higher calorie formula because they were premature. I tried nursing tandem, but it didn't work that well. Right now, it's one at a time.

How many diapers are you using?
We go through a minimum of 24 diapers each day. Three babies changed at least each time they eat (every 3 hours). If necessary, they are changed more often, therefore increasing the number of diapers.

How much are they eating?
Each baby eats approximately 3 ounces at each feeding. Eight feedings a day. Approximately three hours between each feeding.

How much formula do you use?
We're currently using Similac Neosure Advance formula. It's the higher 22 calorie formulation. It's sold as a powder in a 12.8 ounce can. We've been buying it by the case - 6 cans at a time. Those 6 cans don't last more than 5 - 6 days. As you can see, that's a lot of formula in a week.

Can you tell the babies apart?
Yes, we can.

Do they have different personalities yet?
Those are slowly starting to emerge.

Do you get any rest or naps?
Not as often as we would like.

How do you keep things going during the day?
We have a schedule to follow. It makes it easier to have things planned out and know what will be happening when.

Does one crying baby wake the others?
Sometimes, but not always. The other babies might wake up and cry too, but we've also seen them look at their sibling with a "Why are you crying?" look on their face.

Email us with more questions and we'll get them answered.