Being a mom of triplets, I often get phone calls from friends who know someone is expecting multiples. Usually, the conversation goes something like, "Would you mind talking to them? They just found out and don't know what to do first." I'm always happy to pass on whatever wisdom and support that I can. So, for whatever it's worth, here is some of that advice.

First, pick up a copy of When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets or Quads, by Barbara Luke. This is a fantastic resource that spells out nutrition information, limitations, possible complications, and preventative measures. Certain limitations or requirements for increased calorie intake or sleep may seem severe, but I used them as stretch goals to work towards.

Remember, the book is there to help you, not to produce anxiety. I will never know what cosmic forces came together that allowed me to carry my triplets to 37+ weeks, but I give at least some of the credit to this book.

Secondly, get a notebook. As people hear the news of your pregnancy, you will be inundated with offers to help, like "Let me know if you need and help," or, "I'm serious, I'd be happy to help with anything you need!"

When these initial offers of help come, that is the time to write down their names in your notebook. See if you can get an idea of what they are willing to help with, things like grocery shopping, meal preparation, feeding, and changing babies.

I know it is hard to stand there at eight weeks pregnant, able-bodied and healthy, asking for help. However, if you end up on bed rest during your pregnancy, or when you are sleep deprived after bringing home the babies, you will want to have those names and offers available to you.

Another option is to have a close friend or family member coordinate those names and requests. In the midst of needing help, sometimes you don't have the time or the sense to ask for it.

Thirdly, contact your insurance company. Some carriers have programs for high risk pregnancies. With mine, being a triplet pregnancy was enough to qualify for high risk. A nurse came to my house toward the end of my pregnancy to take measurements, check blood pressure, listen to heartbeats, and answer any concerns I had. This was in addition to my weekly visits to my own doctor. These options may not be available, but it is always worth knowing what resources are out there.

Lastly, contact a local support group for twins or higher order multiples. It is wonderful to have a group of people who can relate to your experiences. They can also be a great source of second hand items!

More than anything, though, these groups help you know there are others out there who have walked in your shoes and, like me, hope that they can share some advice and friendship with other moms who are facing the challenges of raising multiple blessings.

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