Pregnant w/ triplets! Any tips on coping...

Bella - posted on 10/22/2012

it is hard work i was sixteen when we had a first set of tripplets four and a half years a go we had a struggle especially as we had gcse to complete to you always find a routine and a way round it for every couple the routine is a bit different and as they get older it changes more and more as for us when they were two and a half it changed cause we had twins and now its changed for them all a bit more as we are expecting tripplets at the end of december dont worry and just go with the flow that what i did and am doing and i am only twenty five years old and still with the dad of them all.

Mirna - posted on 05/17/2011

Hi,
I really enjoyed reading this post, since I am also 12 weeks pregnant with triplets. I'm scared about the triplets being born early, but I am also scared because I have 2 kids already. I will have 5 kids under 5 years old!!!! Anyone out there have 5 little ones, and how do you manage?

Majd - posted on 04/29/2011

Congratulations.. I was blessed with triplets in my first pregnancy, I was able to keep them in for 35 weeks and 4 days. My advice is to follow your docotr's instruction. I stopped working when I was five months pregnant, drank lots and lots of water, get all the rest you can. Never carry anything. Avoid intercourse and keep positive. Trust me you can do it!
As for taking care of them don't do my mistake and ask for all the help you can get, and if you can afford hiring a nurse at least for a month go ahead you will need the help. But once they start recognizing you and smile you will be beyond happiness and forget everything else!!!

Amanda - posted on 05/27/2010

make sure you listen to your dr, my triplets were born at 32 and 1/2 weeks, i was on bed rest, i had some contractions a few days before and drank some water and rested and got them to stop, them my water broke! they were all 3 just fine, all just in the special care nursary, no real problems, just had to stay in the hospital long enough to breath and eat at the same time, and then they came home!

fyi, when they came home they were so used to being together, we had to put them in the same crib for awhile to keep them happy.

good luck!!!

Dee - posted on 05/26/2010

My babies will be here in a few weeks!!

Amanda - posted on 05/21/2010

get boppies! they were a blessing!

Dee - posted on 05/17/2010

I haven't responded to my thread since I deactivated my original account under "Danyella A." But just an update for you:

I'm not just a few days past 32 weeks. Dr says the babies and I are doing very well & has pushed the delivery to sometime during 35 weeks. The babies are very active. Extremely active. Still on bedrest, but getting pregnancy messages to deal with the pain in the groin area.

As for exercise, I am forbidden to do any. I am now forcing myself to eat b/c I do not have an appetite. We have the grandma's lined up to help out once the babies come home.

Jessica - posted on 05/16/2010

I had alot of complications with my pregnancy and was on bed rest for 21 weeks. All I can say is take good care of yourself, now you a living breathing incubator for 3 little lives, put them before your desires of cafine and unhealthy foods. If you can, get exercise but don't push it. As far as bringing them home from the hospital... Orginization and stability are the keys to a less stress inviroment.

Danyella - posted on 04/07/2010

Just a little update...almost 27 weeks. Just went to the doctor yesterday. The babies continue to do well. Our girls are 1lb 15 oz and their brother is 2lbs 30z!! He's in the 65%tile for his weight! To believe, he was once the smallest of the 3!!

Danyella - posted on 04/07/2010

Starla--I am so down for riding on the Larks at the stores! lol My Dr. just advised me that I need to be riding around in a wheelchair. I totally agree. My poor legs, knees, feet, and pelvic joints are so weak & sore. I've gained 43lbs to date & I'm only 26 weeks 4 days.

Denise, I am so jealous b/c you will be giving birth soon & you're still working! I'm on bedrest, which is so hard for me to do. I have an irritable uterus and am taking Rx for contractions. I really want the babies out by the 33rd week! lol I can't take it anymore! I want life back! Well, I guess it won't be mine for a minimum of 18 years! lol

Starla - posted on 04/05/2010

Rest, rest, rest. Don't pick up stuff. When you go to the store, ride on the carts! It is less pressure on your cervix! When you are home lay down to where it takes the pressure off most of the way! It is hard if you are like I am... I hate to lay down and take it easy, but it is the best think to keep those babies in longer!!! I went into labor at 30 wks. My goal was 34, but my daughter decided it was time earlier! lol Hang in there!
They are such a blessing, but lots of work! Let others take great care of you. You will be the caretaker soon, and then will wish they could take care of you again!

Denise - posted on 03/27/2010

Hi Danyella,
Pregnant with triplets here as well, 33 weeks and 3 days, and scheduled for a c-section on May 3rd, if all goes well... Try to arrange for delivery at a hospital equipped with a level III NICU at least. Most of the nausea and mood swings are gone by now, just trying to cope with the weight and girth... I'm still working part time (desk job) at a radiology lab, so it can be done, just go easy on your body... My Braxton quivers have started by now, so I hope I will make it to May.... :) I do intend to breast feed them as well, although it seems like a daunting task... Best wishes for now... You can do it... :)

Jennifer - posted on 03/17/2010

LOVE IT!!! So glad you are doing well. I bet that tummy is rapidly expanding!

Danyella - posted on 03/16/2010

My nausea has gone away for the most part. Occasionally, I will puke up food my body doesn't like. I am taking folic acid, DHA, prenatals, and I did buy Omega-3, but the fish taste is so disgusting! And they're the kid gummies. We're doing well. 11 weeks and counting...

Jennifer - posted on 03/12/2010

How is your nausea/vomiting? I had to be on Zofran, and I could not take prenatal vitamins until 26 weeks! I hav to get IV fluids as well. I found that "Emergen-C" helped me get some vitamins. It's just a small packet of B vitamins, minerals, and a powershot of vitamin C that you dump into a shot of water, it's sour and fizzy and for the most part, it stayed down. My docs told me that nausea and vomiting are good because it means that the babies and their placentas are doing great - even though you are not!

Danyella - posted on 03/11/2010

I am hoping that we are able to move prior to the baby bears being born. If so, I will invite someone to come stay with us for a bit. Other than that, we have 3 grannies who said they'd help. I don't want too many people around my babies, so I am going to be picky w/ miscellaneous people and friends helping. Someone on here said not all help is good help!! I'm finding that out now! lol

Cris - posted on 03/09/2010

I know that I could not have done this without help! Who do you have in your life that could take on a task or two? My across the street neighbor came 3 times a week to help bathe the triplets for almost 18 months. My Jazzercise students and neighbors brought dinners and filled the freezer. My sister-in-law came to play with my 2 older sons . . . and then moved in with us. Once I was finished breast-feeding, we took turns at night so that my husband and I could each get at least one night's rest before it was my turn again - not a bad thing to do even with one baby, really! Find a system that allows you to feel like a human being whether it's a schedule, or a baby-sitter that comes and gives a chance to shave your legs once a week . . . don't forget about yourself even though you are about to become SUPER MOMMY to all of your friends! Keep a sense of humor and don't let how busy you are get the best of you and don't be afraid to be specific about what you need. If someone says they want to help . . . tell them what you need! God has blessed us abundantly as triplet mommies! Lean on him and you will be AWESOME - even if you need to do a little stress crying now and then!

Jennifer - posted on 03/03/2010

That pelvic pain you are feeling is called "symphasis diastasis" and it is from your pregnancy hormones relaxing all of the muscles and ligaments in your body, this means that there is a gap in the front of your pubic bone! Mine felt like a hatchet in the crotch bone and felt especially painful whenever I was getting in and out of bed.

Jennifer - posted on 03/03/2010

I had full term twins and the best advice I can give you is to listen to your body. My doc told me to stay hydrated, eat lots of protein, take frequent naps, no house work. I had my family help me clean and get our nursey ready for me. I folded clothes on my bed and only got on my feet for doctor's appointments, making something to eat, or going to the bathroom. Floating in the pool was amazing, but I needed a lot of help getting in and out. Not even octomom will be able to tell you how you can handle your babies once you get them home! Good luck sweetie! You will be in my prayers for a 36 week triplet pregnancy and no NICU stay!

Danyella - posted on 02/28/2010

Hello everyone! I've been away for awhile. Things have been a bit up and down. I was on strict bedrest for a week. Now I'm on light duty. I am finding that I am unable to stand and walk for periods longer than 20 minutes. If so, I feel like someone has crushed my pelvis & can barely walk! My husband asked my Perinatologist for a Handicap placard, which I got last week! Thank Goodness for that!!

The babies continue to grow well. I felt them kick for the first time in the wee hours of Valentine's Day! It was so exciting. Yesterday, I saw them kicking though my shirt for the first time. They're getting quite ferocious in there! lol I have a Dr. appt tomorrow, so hopefully, everything's still going well. I am 21 wks, 1 day today. I'm doing a countdown to make it to 28 wks, then 32, and so forth!

Does anyone remember having any of their triplets pushing real hard on their lower pelvis that it hurt really bad? My daughter on the bottom tends to do that a lot. If I kind of push on that area or put a warm pack on, she moves away & starts kicking! lol

Keep the advice coming and any updates on your trips!! I love to hear everyone's stories!! You can add me on FB is you'd like! I post daily & have sonogram pix up, too!

Ashley - posted on 02/27/2010

I have 2 year old triplet sons and it was kinda the same for us.....twins run in both families....the best advice I have for you while ur pregnant is to relax as much as possible....I was actually laid off early on in my pregnancy which turned out to be a God send...Try and keep yourself laughing...you cant stress yourself thinking about all the what ifs and leave it in God's hands...our boys were delivered 9 weeks early because I developed help syndrome just all of the sudden at 31 weeks.. they were born March 08 and weighed in at 3lb 11oz, 3lb 12oz and 3lb 7oz...they stayed in the NICU 26 days and although it was difficult make sure to take in as much as you can in whatever situation comes about....they came home with no monitors nothing and have been doing wonderful ever since. The best thing I can tell you for when they come home is make sure you and ur hubby work together...that is the key...the first couple months is quite foggy although try to keep them on a schedule and trust me u will be glad u did. My boys have always napped at the same time and ate so its made the last 2 years alot easier...I wont tell u its not hard at times but trust me theres nothing like it. Not many people get the blessings that we have been blessed with....would love to hear update and just remember God doesn't put you in any situation you can't handle....theres a reason WE are triplet mamas!!

LaRhonda - posted on 02/25/2010

Hi Danyella. I'm glad to hear that the pregnancy is going well and the babies are growing. That's absolutely wonderful. I've been coping pretty well since my three girls have been out of the hospital. They all came home at the same time which was very scary, but my new nickname is "Super Mom".

Here's a word of advice for once your babies come and think someone else may have mentioned it as well. STAY on a schedule. I have found that the lack of a schedule makes everything so much harder. My girls will be 4 months next Wednesday and their schedule consists of feeding every 3 hours beginning at approximately 4:00 am. Their last feeding of the day is around 10:00 pm, so I am able to wind down and get around 5 straight hours of sleep every night. I'm still not working (and probably won't go back for a couple of years), but my husband takes the "night shift" on Fridays and Saturdays so that I get a little more sleep on the weekends (he works Monday - Friday). I noticed that if my girls did not eat every 3 hours during the day, then they woke up for the 1:00 am feeding.

Another thing that I realized is that all help is not good help. It may be because I am very picky about how things are, but people tend to do what they want to do instead of what you ask them to do when they are babysitting. For example, the pediatrician will want to know how well and how often each baby is eating as well as how often they are peeing and pooping. It's not so hard to keep track of that for one baby, but when you have three, no amount of memory is going to help you. I created a spreadsheet that allows me to track those things. Each baby has her own sheet and all I have to fill in is the date, time, and amount of food. This has been very helpful for the doctor because all I have to do is hand her the spreadsheet when she asks about those things. There will be so many people that want to tell you how to handle your children. Listen to their advice, but do what you feel is best for your children. What may have worked for them may not work for you and since you will be spending the most time with your triplets, trust that you will know better than anyone else.

Also, I don't think I will EVER be able to take them to the doctor by myself while they are still babies. It is very difficult. Being organized does make it a lot easier though. When you need to get away, get away. You will be no good to the babies if you're going crazy. Trust me!

I'll keep you updated on my girls' progress.

Danyella - posted on 01/25/2010

Hey Melissa! The babies are doing great! I just went to the Dr.'s on Friday (15wks, 6days), and he said they are doing wonderful. He said they are about 5.5 inches long, 4 oz, and are the size of a singleton baby. My son continues to be quite the show off during all sonograms! This guy never stops moving! So, I know I am in for it w/ him! lol The girls, are pretty mellow. One is a sleepyhead and has to be woke up during sonograms. The other one is shy & tends to suck on her thumb, turn away when we're trying to look at her. As a result, we've seen her booty & it was so cute! Lil' baby butt-crack!

They're all pretty busy once you wake them op for the sonogram. I'll be having another one in 2 wks and another one in about 3 wks. The 3 wk one is to check them for heart problems. The nuchal translucency I had earlier this month found that all the babies are developing fine and no birth defects were detected, as in mental retardation (trisomy).

It seems as if they have personalities already! I've been able to figure this out b/c I have sonograms at least twice a month & they're always in the same arrangement (pyramid), and always have the same behavior.

Michaelle - posted on 01/24/2010

Rest as much as possible, and do not travel w/o dr approval. I had twins two years ago, and am convinced that the last trip to visit my husbands parents is what caused me to deliver early. The boys were two and a half months early, and had to stay in the NICU for a month. They are healthy strong little guys, and you wouldn't know that they were early by looking at them.

As far as handling three, well, I was only blessed with two, but I would strongly suggest keeping them on the same eating, and sleeping schedule. If you do, you will get to rest when they rest. Life will be much easier fore everyone if you get to sleep....also, sleep when ever they sleep when they come home. The house may go to shambles, laundry may not always be cleaned, there may not be three square meals on the table, but you will keep your sanity with sleep!

Congratulations, and good luck!

Lindsay - posted on 01/20/2010

Hey there Danyella, congrats on the pregnancy, I'm so sorry that it had to happen in the summer tho....ugh...I went thru the same thing and almost passed out from heat exhaustion!!! STAY COOL! I think I went thru gallons of water a day....lol

My guys are 17months old now, and they were only 4 weeks early. We were kicked out of the hospital in 5 days, and they were in the room with me immediately. I hope the same doesn't happen to you!!
- All I can say is get as much sleep at the hospital as you can...and you and your husband need to tag team it. I am a single mom, and did this on my own, and the best advice is to take shifts. One of you take days, one nights. Atleast for the first month at home. You may only see each other for a few hours during the day, but TRUST ME, it works.
- I also separated mine to sleep until they were 6 months. That way they didn't wake each other up.
- I pre-made bottles the day before and kept them in the fridge, juice jug at a time.
- Invest in some fans to block out noise, it's a good way to keep them sleeping longer!
- I'm not sure where you live, but my community centre really helped me out with volunteers. I still have a lovely lady that still helps me to this day. You just have to pick and choose who comes into your home, but the more hands you have the better!!
- Have you looked up the Multiple Birth Association in your Area?? They are great at bringing meals, and passing down items, clothes, cribs, strollers....
- If you are looking for a good stroller, I bought the RunAbout...ended up being the best tandem kind, if you want to fit thru a doorway! If you would like any more info, feel free to email me! milesthekat@hotmail.com

Melissa - posted on 01/20/2010

"Knowing me, I'm sure I'll have dry erase boards everywhere. And I am not turning down any help!! I'll just have to limit help from smokers, however...Yuck!"

Get note books for each of them. When you carry them to the doctor they will want to know 1) how many oz.'s they are eating 2) How many wet diapers 3) how many poopy diapers 4) how long they are sleeping. Also it helps to have a record of what meds and when they took them. The bad thing about the dry erase boards - once they are erased - it is gone. Something else you will need - 3 large storage boxes - for the outfits you want to save and all the other little things you can't stand to part with. I started out with 3 small ones and soon had to get the large ones. I also put their notebooks in them when I quit using them - some day they might enhoy looking at them!
Hope you are doing good! How big are the babies now?
Melissa

Kathleen - posted on 01/17/2010

Congradulation!! I delivered at 32 weeks and my kids were in the NICU over two weeks. I agree with Melissa, make sure you hospital has a level 3 or up nicu. Listen to your body and your doctor. Everyone you know will be telling you what to do and how their pregnacy went, etc. Unless they had mulptiles don't bother listening to them. The nurses in the Nicu are great and take their advice on feedings etc. When we got our littles ones home they were on a three hour feedings. My middle one had reflux and it was holy hell. We had about half an hour to ourselves between feedings.
The best advice I would give you is take all the help offered. My hubsand took off from work, and I did the day feed and he did the nights. Don't turn down any offers. We were lucky that my cousin and his wife would stay over one night a week and this is when we both got a full nights sleep. I use to count down the days till they came! You are having your little ones in the summer which is great, have them outside. It will be good for them and most importantly good for you. The first six months is hard, but later on you will look back and wonder how you guys got thru it.
Have a routine, so when people come over to visit they can help with feedings, b ath and laundry!!! Make a spreadsheet with the babies names for times of feeding, bottles (how much they took), and bm's. Believe me you could feed the same baby twice, and someone could forget to change one of them! If you do powder formula later, boil a large pot of water and keep it in a container, so that all you have to do is put the formula in.
Everyone in you lives will tell you about their babies, what type of diapers, wipes and bottles to use. This got on my nerves!!! What worked for some people sometimes doesn't work for you. Don't forget you will have three babies with different personalities and needs. We didn't have any children till our trio came along, and the best motto we had was " we don't know any different and we just have to get on with it". Take everyday as it comes because it is hard work. Don't let that scare you and I'm not trying. When you have three smiling babies looking up to you, it is well worth it. Hope this helps you....
Kathleen

Cristie - posted on 01/17/2010

Congrats on your triplets! I know firsthand how overwhelming, exciting and scary the news can be, but just stay positive! Rest when you can stay off your feet as much as possible and drink lots and lots of water. I carried my trips to 34w5days they stayed in the NICU for only 11 days and that was to gain a little weight. No oxygen no monitors. They are 18 months now and running around just like singleton 18 month olds. I was never on bedrest never hospitalized nothing and I believe it's because I tried to eat right and take it easy. I also have a 4 year-old so trying not to move around so much was a challenge since she was 2 at the time, but you can do it. My advice for when they come home is simple. Keep them on the same schedule. They all need to eat and sleep at the same time or you will never get a break or any rest. That was what worked for me and helped keep my sanity. Good luck to you and if you have any other questions you can always email me at cristie@Handsoffbaby.com

Angie - posted on 01/15/2010

My Triplets were born at 28 weeks. My advise is to do EXCATLY what your Dr. tells you to do! EAT and REST! You can check out my littles at www.thelynntriplets.blogspot.com. The blog has not been updated since Mothers Day because thats when they became mobile (crawling) and I have never been so busy! No time to blog right now. I do have some good prego storeys and how life was for their first 10 months.

Brenda - posted on 01/06/2010

I started feeling better at about 14 weeks so hang in there!

As for your helpers, we had ours wait until all three girls came home from the NICU before having our help start. I was going back and forth from home to the hospital everyday so there wasn't much people could do for us then, but once we got all three home we needed the help! My MIL was able to come two days a week (and stay the night in between) to help out for about 10 weeks. She was a huge help with the girls and she also did all our housework for the two days she was there. We had other helpers on other days and I kept a white board with the help schedule. Now that I'm on my own, the housework (and a shower, dinner, or anything else) may or may not get done depending on how the girls are that day. They keep me super busy, but they are so much fun now.

Lindsay - posted on 01/02/2010

I have 5 month old triplets. I found out at 10 weeks along that there were three. My husband and I decided to transfer my care to a hospital with a NICU so that the babies and I would be in the same hospital after the birth. I had no restrictions until 30 weeks and that was only because I started to feel contractions. I carried the babies until 33 weeks and 1 day, they were in the hospital for 2 weeks and have been healthy ever since. I didn't have much help after we got home except for my husband. So just remember the first couple months are exhausting but it does get better. I promise. If you have any other questions feel free to ask.
Lindsay

Danyella - posted on 12/31/2009

Joy, I found this wonderful journal thing on clearance at Babies R Us. You right down everything, the feedings, changing, etc. I guess I better go back and get 2 more since they were only $9 from $20! lol

Knowing me, I'm sure I'll have dry erase boards everywhere. And I am not turning down any help!! I'll just have to limit help from smokers, however...Yuck!

Joy - posted on 12/31/2009

I have 4 year old triplets and the memories are flooding back. This was my second pregnancy and the first was such a breeze I didn't know how to handle things like morning sickness that last all day. I had to have IV fluids 3 different times for dehydration. I never did find a solution for the morning sickness it just went away about 15-16 weeks, so hopefully that will happen for you. You're almost there.
I read the book you mentioned. It helped some, but it was scary too. Every visit to the Dr. seemed like there was always more infromation than I could absorb for awhile. Then it just settles in, this is real, we are having trips. Rest as much as you possibly can. I was so big and miserable at the end I just wanted them out, but after 1 visit to NCU I knew they were much better inside me than out there. I wish I would have gone earlier.
The schedule that the others have mentioned is vital to your sanity and your ability to let people help. We got a white board and charted their ounces eaten, wet diaper and dirty diapers. If someone gets sick and you haven't been the one to change them or feed them for a few hours it's hard to answer the dr's questions. It was also a great reference point for everyone. One feeding they might take a lot and the next one not much but you can see that they have had a good amount overall.
Stay positive, read some good books, get hooked on some crazy tv show anything to keep your mind occupied. We made it to 33 weeks, with the last 4 days in the hospital trying to keep them in. The weighed 3, 3-15, and 4-11, we spent 3 weeks in the NCU learing how to stay warm and eat and breath. The girls are identical and figured things out first. The boy had the hardest time breathing, but the nurses all told us that it just takes boys longer. All of my girlfriends loved that, my husband didn't find it so funny.
Hang in there, it was one crazy ride from now until forever. Enjoy it.

Leigh - posted on 12/30/2009

Congratulations!! Don't be scared. I can pretty much guarantee that you will not make it to June. My boys were 9 weeks early and spent 4 weeks in the NICU. This is a great time for you to heal and recover. ONce they are hope take one day at a time and anyone willing to help. Let them. It gets old but is definately worth it.

Danyella - posted on 12/28/2009

Thank you to all of you who have posted advice!! It makes me feel like I can really do this when they babies are born and come home. Your kind words are giving me the needed strength and will-power to be a super mom!

Brenda--you had me cracking up w/ the Curves for babies line! That is so cute! We live in a small home, so I am not sure how the heck we're going to fit all this baby equipment in our greatroom! I am thinking, we may have to sell our dining room table to set up shop for the Baby Curves! lol

Beth--My OB/Gyn referred me right away to the specialist. I still see my regular OB/Gyn dr, which is how I want it to be. So I have a lady ob and a man specialist. They're both great. Having 2 doctors, I'll be going to the dr's a lot more often, but at least I get to see my babies at all appts!

Kris--I am definitely going to Babies R' Us to invest in a good body pillow! I was wondering where to get those. I don't know why I didn't think of that!

Alana--I will definitely remember to ask the RN for the sleep schedules! That is very good advice. People have said they will help me and it looks as if I may have help lined up for 2-4 wks. Things happen & I don't want to depend on others helping me if the help falls through. I am thinking my hubby will take paternity leave or FMLA.

Melissa--thanks for the advice on feeding. I keep wondering how this can be done w/ 3. I have looked up sites about breastfeeding triplets. It can be done, but only if I have the time, patience, and milk! lol

As for me, I am about 12 weeks now and the morning sickness continues to keep my head in the toilet, trash can, or sink! Ugh! I am having an extremely hard time eating/drinking and then keeping that food in. More than likely, I will be making 2-3 trips a week to the Dr. for IV hydration drip. I have little desire to eat or drink. And liquids trigger me to throw up.

My babies are so picky about food! lol I swear they already have lil' personalities just judging by the sonograms I've had every week! Although I've been puking a lot, the babies' heartbeats continue to be strong and they are active. Every time I go, I can't believe my eyes how big they've gotten since the last sonogram! I have one hyper child, my lil' show off; my lazy one that is always sleeping upside down, sucking on it's thumb; and my shy one that always turns away & hides during the sonograms.

My hubby is really warming up to the fact that we're having triplets and is taking good care of us. We're not reducing our babies. I thought about it, but the thought of possibly reducing and losing a gender, didn't sit well w/ me. I am thinking it's 2 and 1. I think it's 2 girls, 1 boy. With that, how could you possibly predict at 12 wks which child you're going to give the boot? I know it will be hard, but we worked so damn hard to get pregnant, we're keeping them all!

If any of you would like to be in my circle or add me as a friend to KIT, please feel free!!

Keep the advice coming! Thanks everyone!

Danyella - posted on 12/28/2009

Quoting Alana:

OK Just read that your doctor sugested a reduction. This angers me!!!! They told me the same thing and my children are the most beautiful healthy kids you would ever meet. For me it was not even a choice but I really could not live with out one of my wonderful kids. PLEASE DO NOT REDUCE!!!!

We didn't reduce!! I kind of wanted to b/c the thought of having a child w/ cerebral palsy scared my to death. But I kept thinking about it. My hubby was against the reduction from the beginning. I couldn't think of going behind my hubby's back to reduce. The thought of possible losing all of them didn't sit well either. I will have trust in my faith that the babies will be born healthy. 

Danyella - posted on 12/28/2009

Quoting LaRhonda:

Hi Danyella. Congratulations!! I just had my triplet girls in November at 33 weeks and 5 days. I was told the average delivery time for triplets is 32 weeks, so your doctor is right in saying you may not make it through June. I am 4 ft 9 inches tall and at the time that I became pregnant, I was 105 lbs. Due to my size, my doctors didn't think I would make it to 28 weeks. Throughout my pregnancy, I was never placed on bed rest or any other types of restrictions which was amazing. I went into labor spontaneously - I think because I had a weekend filled with walking.

In my opinion, I was able to do so well because I was not working. The stress from my previous job was completely eliminated. I spent a lot of time resting in bed or at least with my feet up. I only went places when I absolutely had to. Although I was driving until the very last day. The best thing you can do for your babies is eat well, get plenty of rest (at least an additional 2 hours during the day if you can), and don't do too much.

Good luck with your pregnancy and the babies.

OMG! You're super tiny to have carried triplets for that long!! Congrats on your new baby girls!! If you don't mind, can you keep me informed on how your handling things at home? I would love advice from everyone. And since you just gave birth, who better to ask for current info, than a mom of newborns! I am finding that I must take it easy or I get sick. Housework isn't getting done as usual! lol I find that even doing 3 things, like going to the store, and then another store, and an appt is just too much for me and I end up sidelined to the bed/sofa. I am not used to this at all! So most of the time, I have no choice but to rest!

Danyella - posted on 12/28/2009

Quoting Chasity:

Danyella,

My pregnancy went very well, no bed rest, no hospital. I was very active though - student teaching and graduated from college 5 months pregnant with them. I gave birth at 36 weeks and 2 days. They were all between 4 and 5 pounds and only 1 was in the NICU during our 4 day stay at the hospital. We all went home together without monitors or medication. We were very fortunate.

OMG! You're babies were a very good weight! Congrats on that! That's wonderful! I also teach, but I teach in the roughest school district in the city! So, I am not sure if my doctors are going to let me go back once Winter Break's over. I've been so sick with morning sickness all day, practically everyday,  I don't know if I can return.

Ruwaida - posted on 12/26/2009

I agree 100% DO NOT REDUCE! We were told the same thing by our gynae and guess what, if we had taken his advice we would have aborted our ONLY son as he had the lowest weight. Today our son Imraan is a strapping 12 year old, healthy as they come and doing brilliantly at school,as are my two girls.

Melissa - posted on 12/22/2009

Before the triplets arrive, drink lots of water and eat plenty of protein. Listen to your doctor about bedrest. I know it is hard to stay in bed all day but it will be worth it to have healthy babies. I did everything the books and the doctors said to do and went in for a scheduled C-Section at 36 weeks.

After your babies arrive, have a schedule. We found it easier to feed all of the kids at the same time. They were on a 3 hr. schedule so I would feed two then the next one would get fed. At night, when the first one woke up, all got up to eat. It makes things easier. It helps to have them all on the same nap schedule too so that you can nap or get things done around the house.

Don't be afraid of formula. People acted like I was horrible for not breast feeding but I didn't have a choice I never had milk come in. Our pediatrician put the kids on a special formula to help them catch-up on their growth. They are now bigger than (height not waist) then their cousins who are the same age or the kids they go to church with.

Take all the help you can get. You will be very busy with three babies and extra hands are always helpful. Saying that, you can do this on your own. I was so nervous to be left alone with them when they were little. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to handle it. I did fine and so will you. These are your babies. No one will ever know better than you how to take care of them or what is best for them.

Alana - posted on 12/16/2009

OK Just read that your doctor sugested a reduction. This angers me!!!! They told me the same thing and my children are the most beautiful healthy kids you would ever meet. For me it was not even a choice but I really could not live with out one of my wonderful kids. PLEASE DO NOT REDUCE!!!!

Alana - posted on 12/16/2009

First a Congrats to the both of you!
My husband and I had our 3some 2 years ago and they reached 36 week. The fact that you are off work already is good as you will be needing all the rest you can get in the next few months but do not let your self get lazy. I found that a daily walk really made a big difference. It lowered my back ache and kept up my strength for caring for the 3 miniature people I would be responsible for.
Also massage! I went for massages once a month the last 4 months. It was wonderful as they have special pillows to take the pressure off your huge tummy and it feels nice to be off the pressure points for an hour.
My cousin is expecting twins really shortly and she is crazy about having her back adjusted by chiropractor. She has already had 3 kids and has do this with each of them. She says that it reduces pain during delivery and back labor.

After they are born. TAKE ALL THE HELP YOU CAN GET!!!! For the first while anyway until you get your footing back under you. But be brave and try to figure out ways to do things on your own for when you need to. As for feeding 3 (after 2 months)I used nursing pillows in a half circle around me. I then lay the babies in the in the pillow and proped the bottle with a receiving blanket. I then rotated burping and caring for each babies needs.
ROUTINE, Routine ...doing all the feeding, sleeping, bathing, dressing at once saved my life. I know that once one thing was done I did not have to worry about it for another couple hours and I could move on to the next thing. You will find out what works best for you. BUT get them on to a really good sleeping schedual right away. They will be in the hospical for a few days atlest so ask the RN's what schedual they had been using a stick to that to no end. Also use your free time now to read up on sleep methods to see what works best for you. But remember you can not sooth 3 babies at the same time so choose something you can stick with. We did the cry to sleep method. It sounds harsh but they really learned quickly (2 months) to fall asleep on their own. Which meant my husband and I got more sleep to!

I hope this is not an over load for you but I do wish you the best of blessings and know that you can do it just like your family has before you!
Just so you know my kids a 2 now and my life is much easier! The time will come for you too! Try to float through the business with a smile!

Kris - posted on 12/15/2009

Congrats on your babies......First off take ALOT of belly pics. I am so thankful that I did. I just love going back over the pics of my ever growing belly and see how quickly it grew. Second if you dr says that you need to use a wheelchair if you go out shopping or what not, listen to him. Try not to let your pride step in the way, but it will not only help you babies stay in longer but it will also help your back. Get a good body pillow and sleep with it between your knees. I found a great PG body pillow at babies "R" us that was a full length body pillow. It has curves that form with a PG womens belly. It goes under your belly and there is also a part that goes between your knees. I dont know what I would have dont without it. I still use it actually. If your dr puts you on bedrest stay down as much as you can. Bc trust me you dont want to end up in the hospital on bedrest. (I got hospitalized at 24wks and spent 2 and half weeks on bedrest in the hospital before giving brith at 26wks1day.) While in the hospial I was unable to get out of bed except for everyother day to shower and get weighted. But if you do need to be hospialized dont freak out and take it one day at a time. Make sure to bring alot of stuff to keep you busy. Laptop, dvd player if they dont provide you with one, cd player, Ipod, you name it and most hospitals will allow you to bring it.

Once the babies come home the best thing I can think of is take it one day at a time. At first dont try to plan thing to far in advance bc its hard to tell what life is going to be like. If things seem to be getting to stressful...(like all cring at once, all needed to be feed at once) take a couple second to a couple mins to walk away to another room, take a couple very deep breaths and just breath....Its ok to let your babies cry while you are doing this...(unless you know something had hurt them or they are not breathing or something..I am sure you know what I am talking about.) anyways also make sure you always take time for yourself everday or everyother day. Like a hot shower or bath. If you are not able to nap while they are napping read a book, catchup on a favorit tvshow, make phone calls to friends and family or get online. Another big thing to remember is ALWAYS make time for your husband, no matter what. Even if its just 10mins after the babies have gone down for a nap or when they have been put down for bed. This is what is keeping my marriage alive. If someone that you know and trusts offer to take the babies for a couple hrs JUMP at it and if you are able spend it with your husband.



Well thats all that I can think of for now. I hope this is somewhat helpful for you. But honestly once your little ones are here you will just somehow know what do to and whats going to work for you.

GOOD LUCK!

Brenda - posted on 12/15/2009

Hi, I have almost 6 month old triplet girls. Some of this has already been posted, but this is what worked for me. During pregnancy, eat as much as you can and gain as much weight as you can. the bigger you are the more room for those babies. We were given the choice to reduce and I'm sooo glad we didn't. I can't imagine my life without our little girls. Yes, it is very hard at times, but they are precious and healthy. You can handle three, especially since you don't know any different (these were our first babies, too). I worked until 22 weeks then was on light duty so not bed rest, but I had to take it easy. I was healthy and stayed off bedrest the whole time, but at 32 weeks we found out at my routine doctor's appt that baby C stopped growing so we had a c-section that night. All the babies were in the NICU and needed oxygen and feeding tubes, but they're all fine. Their weights were: baby A-3 lbs, 5 oz, baby B-3 lbs, 14 oz, baby C-3 lbs, 0 oz. They stayed in the NICU for 4 weeks (A), 7 weeks (B), and 9 weeks (C). It wasn't that scary for us because my husband and I have both worked in hospitals before, but it is exhausting. The risk of cerebal palsy decreases dramatically each week you keep them in and it's totally out of your control so try not to worry about it. Feeding is definitely one of the hardest things for preemies.

Now that we're all home and growing, things can be rough at times (right now I have 2 crying). My husband works 4 days a week and I'm home alone with the girls. you'll get really good at blocking out crying and learning what their cries mean. Take as much help as you can for as long as you can. If you can get people to sign up for a day a week that is the most help. Also have people bring you meals a few nights a week so you don't have to cook. Get three swings, they're life savers for us. I'd recommend three different ones so they can rotate through them. Bottom line is do what works for you. You don't have to change out of your PJs and your kids can stay in theirs all day, too. Showers are a luxury. Try to nap when you can, but don't expect to nap for awhile. Right now we have 3 swings, 2 exersaucers, 2 bumbos, 2 bouncers, 2 jumpers, and a play mat. They can hold their heads up so when they get cranky they can rotate through the different 'stations'. It's like Curves for babies! We have a pack in play in our dining room so we can put them down and change them on the main floor and we also have a changing table downstairs where we hang out most of the time. As for feeding, you will need at least 2 boppys. I couldn't breastfeed because my girls were too little so I pumped and gave them breast milk in bottles. We're on to formula now because I didn't have the time to keep pumping every 3-4 hours. I usually feed two at a time by putting them in the boppy (one on each side of me) with a blanket on their chest to hold the bottle. I can still hold the bottles, but that way if one of them needs to burp I can have the bottle propped for the other one. I have two Dr. Brown's pitchers that I use to mix up formula and I have a full days worth of bottles (15 for us now). Wash and fill all the bottles in the afternoon and you don't have to mix bottles again. And a word of advice, don't try to go anywhere by yourself! I tried it once and I hope I don't have to do it again any time soon. My girls sleep for 9-10 hours at a time at night and then I feed them and they sleep for another 2-3 hours so maybe that's how I manage it now. They started sleeping through the night at about 3 1/2 months. I'm sure I have more survival tips, but I can't think of them now. Feel free to email me any questions. I feel like it's starting to get a little easier and there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Brenda

Beth - posted on 12/13/2009

Some advice always applies. My triplet girls are 15. One of the best things I did was request an info packet from the Triplet connection! I strongly suggest you see a specialist, not a regular ob-gyn. If your doctor does not wan t to refer you [ after all there is money in multiples ], heres the advice I got from an insurance claims adjuster who is the father of trips... tell your doctor, insurance company [ whoever is giving you a hard time about it ] that you will hold them personally responsible for the life and well being of your unborn children and yourself, if they refuse to refer you to a specialist. It worked for me! I got a call the next day saying they referred me to the specialist and even made the appointment for me. I had to be at near bed rest at 5 months, complete bedrest at 6 months, laying [ not sitting or even reclining ] on my left side only. I was allowed to get up to go to the bathroom when I needed and to take one shower a day. I attached a monitor for an hour twice a day. I would click if I though I felt a contraction. At the end, I would call the center and they would get the transmission over the phone. They would tell me how many I did have that I felt, how many I didn't that I thought I did and how many I had but didn't feel. If I had over 8 in an hour, they would call me and ask if I needed rest, someothing to eat or drink and I would have to remonitor another hour. That only happened once. If it had been over 8 again I would have to go in. never did. I learned it's also important when having three or more babies that you want to be careful and have enough salt [ but nor too much ]. My girls were born 9 1/2 wks early, in hospital 6 1/2 weeks and came home under 5 lbs each. And I agree- have 3 swings - they were a life saver! Yes I propped bottles, but don't leave the room when they have them propped! And though some may think it old fashioned, swaddle them! It comforts them. Pregnant with triplets- What a wonderful blessing!

LaRhonda - posted on 12/12/2009

Hi Danyella. Congratulations!! I just had my triplet girls in November at 33 weeks and 5 days. I was told the average delivery time for triplets is 32 weeks, so your doctor is right in saying you may not make it through June. I am 4 ft 9 inches tall and at the time that I became pregnant, I was 105 lbs. Due to my size, my doctors didn't think I would make it to 28 weeks. Throughout my pregnancy, I was never placed on bed rest or any other types of restrictions which was amazing. I went into labor spontaneously - I think because I had a weekend filled with walking.



In my opinion, I was able to do so well because I was not working. The stress from my previous job was completely eliminated. I spent a lot of time resting in bed or at least with my feet up. I only went places when I absolutely had to. Although I was driving until the very last day. The best thing you can do for your babies is eat well, get plenty of rest (at least an additional 2 hours during the day if you can), and don't do too much.



Good luck with your pregnancy and the babies.

Chasity - posted on 12/11/2009

Danyella,

I know that this is prime freak out time. Our triplets turned 2 in September and I remember those Dr. conversations like they happened yesterday. A triplet pregnancy is high risk and I think that the Dr.'s are just trying to make you aware of those risks. They just don't always know how to be personable at the same time.
We found out that there were 3 and a minute later the Dr. was talking about selective reduction. We hadn't even had time to think about what having triplets meant. Spooked my husband, but it was never an option in my mind.
My pregnancy went very well, no bed rest, no hospital. I was very active though - student teaching and graduated from college 5 months pregnant with them. I gave birth at 36 weeks and 2 days. They were all between 4 and 5 pounds and only 1 was in the NICU during our 4 day stay at the hospital. We all went home together without monitors or medication. We were very fortunate.
I don't know what worked for us - we stayed positive throughout and had a great group of Dr.'s really keeping an eye on us.
When your babies arrive (healthy and happy), the one bit of advise that I would stress is sticking to a schedule. They eat at the same time, sleep at the same time, etc...
Goodluck! Every child is a blessing....you have three!

Danyella - posted on 12/03/2009

Thank you everyone for the advice. Keep it coming as you remember more helpful tips. I am so scared & confused right now. I don't have a lot of help from friends and family b/c everyone works and/or lives too far away to assist.

My Dr. said that the babies have a higher chance of having Cerebral Palsy & I can't get that out of my mind. He also mentioned that I could reduce to 2, but I could also carry 3. I am just not sure what to do at this point. I don't see the Perinatologist until next week.
What did your doctors tell you when you were pregnant? Did they suggest to reduce or did they say go for it??

Tara - posted on 12/01/2009

Hi Danyella,
I am not sure that I can give you advice in the triplet department, however I would like to offer you a gift certificate. I am a photographer in San Marcos, Ca. I have had the honor of photographing alot of Maternity and newborns. I have always wanted to photograph triplets. I would love to offer you a complimentary session with me.
Please check out my work on my website and blog. Please contact me and let me know if you would like to set up a session with me. Take Care and I wish you the best of luck with your pregnancy and precious babies.

Tara Vivit
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Amanda - posted on 12/01/2009

Hi, I have 4-year-old triplet girls.

They were 6 weeks early and the best advice is to take it easy during the pregnancy and EAT! The more you eat and rest, the better chance you have for bigger, healthy babies. Be prepared for the NICU experience. It can be a little startling at first, but the NICU ended up being a lifesaver for us. Our girls were there for two weeks. This gave me time to recover from a rough c-section and the nurses force a solid feeding schedule on the babies, which was nice when they came home. I agree with Melissa's comments on making sure you have the right level of care available. The more experience they have with multiples, the better. And the book she mentioned was very helpful for me during the pregnancy.

When they are born, sleep whenever you can and try to mimic the schedule from the hospital. After a while, we started to let them sleep as long as they could make it at night, but that made for a very chaotic night. No matter how much help you have, you can do it because you have to. Our girls weren't easy, but one was much more laid back and required less attention, so to speak, than the other two. Routines become really important. I can't tell you how many people told me they were glad they weren't me. One woman even said she would rather die! Obviously not the right thing to say, but many people simply don't know how to react.

The first few months will go so fast and then after that, it will seem easy! Well, kind of. You get lots of special attention at first and take advantage of it. You get a "free pass" card for just about everything at first - work, family, friends, etc. Again, you learn to deal with the situation and the kids do, too.

Best of luck!