Testimony: the unfiltered interview of Laura, alias @ lestriplésdubonheur on Instagram

Parents: Did you prepare for the idea of ​​having triplets?

Laura: Not at all ! Alexandre and I have twins in our respective families, but when I got pregnant, I didn’t think about them at all. I was focused on “the baby I was expecting”. When the gynecologist, at the first ultrasound, took my arm and said “Everything is fine, but I have to tell you something”, I replied “What?” There are two ? “. I found it hard to believe his answer. Alexander saw the three embryos clearly. He was white. We fell from the clouds. Especially since this announcement immediately caused stress with the information on the risks, the possibility of making an embryonic reduction …

How did you organize yourself?

First, we wanted to keep all three. We said to ourselves, “We will manage, we must team up”. Our Insta account helped us. We were able to discuss with other parents, read their experiences. We are also part of the “Twins and more” associative network. Our house was designed for one or even two children, so we did some renovations. We gave our (larger) room to the babies. We took the little one and the third remained available for the guests, because we suspected that we would need to welcome grandparents often …

How did the family react?

They were very surprised! It was announced on Mother’s Day. At the time, my mother still put out a “Ah bah shit!” », But it was in shock. Everyone was happy and full of love. It was very important to feel that they would be there for us.

Three babies is three times more things to plan, buy …

Yes, finding nine names was hard, especially for the second and third (because they each have three)! We had asked the gender in the echo, there was already so much unknown! On the budget side, we mainly bought second-hand items. The family also lent us a lot of equipment and helped with the purchase of a 7-seater car. And we rather ask for milk and diapers than gifts to our loved ones!

How did the pregnancy go?

I had a great pregnancy. Obviously, the first three months I was very nauseous and quickly got out of breath. At work, I have to go up and down floors (I work in a tea room). My leave started at the start of the 2nd trimester (two weeks before the scheduled date). But I remained active (cycling, walking). I also did some yoga and meditation. I could feel their movements, it was awesome. I had follow-up appointments every month. It was a chance to see the babies often, the staff were always impressed. The babies grew well except Mia, who at one point had a small growth arrest (1,7 kg at birth against 1,9 kg for Ellie and 2,5 kg for Malo). I thank my body for doing this crazy thing! I lost the 18 kg again in six months.

What about childbirth?

A few days before the scheduled date, I had the onset of preeclampsia. So I was triggered at 35 and a half weeks. Alexandre was present all the time. We listened to music, it’s important for the atmosphere because the cesarean makes noise and light in all directions. The presentation of the babies was magical. The dad took 4 months parental leave (otherwise it was 18 days!) In addition to his leave. He therefore stayed with us for six months. That was the key to getting through with the three. We took turns all the time. I was able to do my rehabilitation, sleep when I needed it. I haven’t had a baby blues.

How is a day with triplets?

It’s sporty! You have to be very organized. The slightest change and it quickly becomes a hassle. So we go out little. Friends come to us instead! But the babies quickly get into the same rhythm. They have been sleeping since they were 3 months old! We give meals to the three at the same time in the deckchairs. They go to a nap together. We plan to walk in the afternoon. Of course, with all the logistics and care, we have little time for ourselves. Since Alexandre has been working again, I have called my parents for help two days a week (while waiting for daycare places two days a week) to be able to take care of myself a little, get out of the house, play sports. And I delegate certain things. Dad takes care of the laundry. I make ready-made little jars for lunch. Our neighbors are adorable too. They have a little boy the same age. They help us from time to time, bring us a meal.

What is the hardest part?

Not being able to enjoy each baby alone. Sometimes Mia wakes up at night and I give her the bottle (in my arms), it’s a special moment.

What are your projects ?

For now, I’m on stand-by at work. It’s great to watch them grow up. The least of their small gestures fills me.