Breastfeeding more than one: multiples and tandem breastfeeding.

The concurrent breastfeeding of two or more infants is associated with multiple births or non-twin siblings, which sometimes is referred to as tandem breastfeeding. In these situations, the "supply and demand" production principle of lactation is a compensatory mechanism. It ensures the availability of adequate amounts of human milk, no matter how many infants are breastfeeding. A lack of time for the increased number of breastfeedings, physical and emotional difficulties associated with caring for more than one infant, and a lack of social support generally are greater hindrances than an inability on the part of the mother's body to produce milk for all infants. The nurse helps by explaining the process of milk production adaptability and sharing intervention strategies to help the mother minimize the obstacles to breastfeeding more than one.