Studies have shown that when a mom has the support of a great dad, she’s more likely to continue breastfeeding so that both she and baby get the maximum health and developmental benefits.
Why is Breastfeeding so Important?
You hopefully already know that breastfeeding is one of the healthiest things you can do for your new baby. (And can save money!) Breastfeeding (even if it’s not 100% exclusive) for six months or more can offer benefits to the baby and mother that last a lifetime.
Some men worry that so much time is spent breastfeeding, that it will take away their bonding time with the baby. And it’s totally normal to have those feelings, but there are still lots of ways for dads to participate and be supportive.
- Men can still get quality time with their baby. Get lots of skin-to-skin time, help rock, cuddle, and burp the baby.
- Give lots of encouragement during those early weeks. Remind your partner why they chose to breastfeed your baby. Tell her it will get easier.
- Don’t point out the negatives. Your partner knows she is devoting a lot of time to breastfeeding, including waking up at night. She may be second guessing herself, don’t make those little voices in her head even louder.
- I know my husband felt bad because I had to be the one waking up multiple times at night to feed the baby. But when he could, he would take care of our newborn for a few hours in the morning after the baby ate, so that I could catch a few extra hours of sleep.
- Once a mothers milk supply is established, if pumping is something she is comfortable with, dad can feed the baby a bottle of breastmilk.
- Offer to bring your partner a glass of water or a snack, or a pillow for support while she is feeding the baby.
- If mom is worried about supplementing, remind her it is ok to supplement. Talk about it with her. Tell her she should not feel guilty about supplementing.
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