Breastfeeding is Teamwork
Moms whose partners support their breastfeeding efforts breastfeed longer. And they get more benefits from breastfeeding. Here are some ways you can be helpful:
During Pregnancy:
- Encourage mom to make a breastfeeding plan and set goals. Let her know that you’ll be there to help along the way.
- Plan for the delivery together. That means helping choose a doctor and hospital that support breastfeeding, going to doctor’s appointments, and going to prenatal classes.
- Tour hospitals or birthing facilities together and choose one that supports breastfeeding
- Start learning about normal baby behavior so you’ll be prepared when baby comes.
After Pregnancy:
- Support skin-to-skin time for mom and baby during the Sacred Hour, the first hour after delivery. Even babies who are delivered by cesarean can do skin-to-skin in the first hour.
- Request rooming in at the hospital so that you and mom have more time to get to know your baby and settle into a healthy routine.
- Get plenty of skin-to-skin time where you cuddle the baby on your bare chest. This is great bonding time with lots of benefits for both of you.
- Be on standby to get help for mom and baby as they get the hang of breastfeeding. That means asking a nurse or lactation consultant for help. Listen carefully so you can help mom remember the information later.
- Make sure mom and baby have private time to breastfeed and sleep. You may have to ask visitors to come another time, but that’s OK—you’re a dad now!
Help out at home – Prepare Yourself – Newborns eat at least 8 to 12 times a day and sleep only a few hours at a time. Learn what to expect from your baby and how you can adjust your schedule during the early months.
Have a Watchful Eye – Learn to spot early hunger cues and bring the baby to mom when you see them. It’s much easier for babies to latch on and feed before they get too hungry. This will also help her body to make all the milk your baby needs.
Encourage Her – Let mom know you’re proud of her. Breastfeeding can be hard. If she has problems, help her find some help, and remind her that it’s worth it!
Be Thoughtful – Small acts make you a big hero. Bring her a pillow so she’s comfortable during feedings. Make sure she has a glass of water and a healthy snack nearby.
Be Helpful – You can hold the baby after a feeding until she falls sound asleep, change diapers, learn how to calm the baby when she cries, take care of meals and household chores, and give mom a break so she can shower or nap. She will be grateful, and you’ll get more time with the baby!
Call Additional Help – If you can’t be there for mom, turn to family and friends who have offered to help.
No Smoking Allowed – Babies who are exposed to smoke face a lot of short-term and long-term health problems. Don’t let anyone smoke near your baby, and don’t take the baby anywhere smoking is allowed.