Like many twin moms, having twins was never in my plans. Postpartum was never really planned either. The postpartum recovery period was full of challenges, sleepless nights, surprises, and lessons learned. Recovery after having one baby I’m sure is hard enough, but adding another one into the mix is an entirely different ball game.
To top it all off, I had a section, which brought it’s own set of hurdles. If you’re reading this as a fellow twin mom- or a mom who’s about to become one- just know that I’ve been there, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned through it all.
It sure is a wild ride- but know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to help you navigate through it.
The C-Section Reality
First, let’s talk C-sections. I know many women prefer vaginal births- and both of my babies were head down, so that was definitely an option for me, but in the end I chose a C-section.
I was an athlete my whole life, so I really didn’t think too much about the recovery process. I just figured I’d bounce back the next day. I was wrong.
While still in the hospital, I was sick from the anesthesia, which made the recovery slower. I also felt groggy and loopy for a few hours.
The first few days at home were tough. Just getting out of bed was a process in itself. I still refused to think that I had to take it easy so I was up walking around and doing laundry almost immediately – that was a bad idea. My legs swelled up pretty bad from not resting enough.
Navigating the Physical Challenges
The pain from the C-section incision was constant, especially in the first couple of weeks. Walking, laughing, and even coughing hurt. I remember walking around slowly, holding my belly to ease the pain, but little by little, I felt stronger. I knew that healing would take time, but I didn’t realize how long it would take for me to feel truly “normal” again.
For me, the first couple of weeks felt like a blur. I had my newborn twins to care for, which meant I couldn’t take it easy even when I wanted to. I really didn’t have a huge support system, but my mom came over after work, and my partner was there to help me rest when needed.
Emotional and Mental Recovery
The emotional recovery was just as intense as the physical one. While I loved my twins, I wasn’t “in love” with them yet- this made me feel like a bad mom. But I was still learning them, learning how to be a mom, and learning the new me.
I felt overwhelmed an drained- physically, emotionally, and mentally. Being a twin mom is exhausting, and on top of that, the emotional toll of recovering from a C-section while trying to bond with your babies can feel like a lot to bear.
Some days felt great; other days were harder. That’s okay. What I learned is that it’s important to give yourself grace during this time. You’re doing your best, and that’s all anyone can ask for.
Having twins meant there was double the love, double the excitement, but also double the exhaustion. I had to adjust my expectations. It was okay not to have everything together right away. No one tells you that recovery takes time, especially when you’re dealing with a C-section after birthing twins. But every day, I felt stronger—mentally and physically.
The Road to Full Recovery
Today, almost 2.5 years later, I’m still in awe of how much my body went through and how it came out the other side. Sure, I have some lower back pain and some ab separation, but I also have these two beautiful, healthy toddlers who remind me of how strong I am. They are a constant source of inspiration and motivation.
I’ll admit, postpartum recovery after twins wasn’t the “quick bounce back” I had imagined. But I’ve learned to embrace the process and appreciate the strength it took to get through each stage. Now, I look back and realize just how resilient I truly am—and how much my body did to bring my twins into this world safely.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a twin mom recovering from a C-section or any type of birth, know that you are not alone. The road to recovery can be long, but you’ll get there. Be kind to yourself, ask for help, and take things one day at a time. Your body is healing, and you are doing an incredible job—just by being you.
