The longer the multiple babies stand in utero is better for them just the
same as singletons.In this instant we are talking about the complications
they can have at a particular premature gestational.
In our unit we have always considered multiples to less mature then their
gestational ages.They can act and behave at least 2-4wks less then a
singleton baby of the same gestational age.We don't expect or presume that
they are able to do the same things as a 35wk+ singleton .
When we're talking 3+ babies whether they are 35wks or less,they are
generally small for their gestational age and often immature in their
physical  development.We always treat them as premmies with their own
individual care plan .Whilst one baby may develop and breastfeed earlier
then one of his/her siblings,we might send that one home earlier and the
othes as they are ready.

We are big on kangaroo care in our nursery encouraging both Mum and Dad to
do so as soon as babies are stable enough to tolerate it.Does wondes for
Mum's milk and the parent's confident in handling their little midgets
before eventally taking them home.

Anne Clements RN RM BNS
Brisbane QLD
Australia
(It's Xmas Day here and 28deg Celsius here in my loungeroom at 10am,wishing
Stanta had never given my 3 kids all those noisey  gifts)

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