The challenges of expecting, delivering and rearing triplets

Twenty-one couples with complete sets of triplets aged between four and six years were interviewed about their experiences of being "triplet parents". The diagnosis of triplets had been a shock for most. All triplets were born prematurely, the mean birth weight being 2,000 g. The first time at home was chaotic for most of the parents. They spent more time organizing and arranging their day and less time on emotional care than did parents of single infants. Growing up as a triplet, with constant competition for attention, stimulation and love from the mother (parents), differed a great deal from the situation for singletons and twins. The early relationship between mothers and triplets must be managed differently from that between mothers of singletons and twins. The study shows how important it is for obstetricians, paediatricians and other professionals to understand the specific needs of these families.