Mothers of Multiples: The More, The Merrier?

Once you've gotten your mind around life with multiples, for many expectant parents, a series of questions and concerns are quick to follow. An article by journalist Terri Sapienza of The Washington Post offers some great ideas for how to cope, resources and some interesting statistics. We've pulled a few of these below, but be sure to check out the article for much more information (http://www.newsobserver.com/105/story/993497.html).

Over the past seven-plus years at Cravings, we have found a notable increase in the number of customers expecting multiples. Hence, we recognize that comes with a whole unique set of pregnancy and parenting questions. We want to help connect you as best possible to some answers. (Be sure to check out the Cravings Cue at the bottom of this article for tips on fashion for moms with multiples!)

We encourage you, our customers and readers, to make Curious Cravings a place where you can exchange ideas and meet other mothers like yourself. Feel free to use our comment button below to post ideas, local resources, and tips you've found helpful in sorting out life with multiples...or expecting multiples. (And if you're not expecting multiples, chances are you know someone who is so please forward this blog to them!)

MULTIPLE BABIES BY THE NUMBERS (From The Washington Post)
Numbers of Wipes Used Annually:
Twins: 6,670
Triplets: 10,000
Quadruplets: 13,333

Number of Diapers Changed Annually:
Twins: 4,533
Triplets: 6,800
Quadruplets: 9.067

Number of Bottles Used Annually:
Twins: 4,420
Triplets: 6,630
Quadruplets: 8.840

RESOURCES FOR PARENTS OF MULTIPLES (From The Washington Post)
National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs: www.nomotc.org
Twinslist: www.twinslist.org
Twinsight: www.twinsight.org
Mothers of Supertwins: www.mostonline.org
Triplet Connection: www.tripletconnection.org
Center for the Study of Multiple Birth: www.multiplebirth.com
Twin Services Counseling: www.twinservices.org
Twins Magazine: www.twinsmagazine.com
1-800-DIAPERS: www.diapers.com
Online Freebies: www.storknet.com/cubbies/freebies/twins.htm

CRAVINGS CUE: While figuring out how to "fit" your pregnant figure can be challenging with one baby, it takes on a new level of uncertainty when expecting multiples. This is when a good maternity boutique can really be your friend! Some do's and don'ts that may help you get started.

• DON'T buy regular clothes in bigger sizes -- it will only frustrate you and waste your good money. You'll still outgrow these clothes quickly and feel frumpy in the process.
• DO try going up a size or two in maternity clothes, especially tops and dresses. These clothes are more proportioned for the changes your body will undergo. With good quality maternity lines, you should not find a huge difference in the shoulders, but you will gain needed inches in the body and length.
• DON'T be afraid to ask your sales assocaite for help with which styles and designers will get you more mileage than others.
  
• DO stick to knits and "stretchy" fabrics and steer clear of wovens (like blouses and structured cuts). More fluid fabrics will be more flattering as your belly blossoms. Tunic length tops are always a great idea for ensuring your belly will stay covered as your belly extends forward.
  
• DO "buy as you go" by picking up a few pieces every two or three weeks. This will make you feel more confident in your purchases and help your sales associate adjust fit as you grow.
  
• DO invest in good quality fabrics and styles. Remember, you will likely wear your maternity clothes for quite a bit after your babies arrive and quality pieces will rebound better with you as your body recovers.