Fathers and Breastfeeding:
The Early Weeks

Dads and Breastfeeding

Your support is critical to the success of breastfeeding between your partner and baby. This is especially true during the first few weeks as mother and baby are both learning. If possible, take paternity leave from work to be available to help your partner and baby through this learning process. This does require advanced notice to your employer, so plan ahead. Before baby is born, it is also a good idea to attend breastfeeding classes with your partner. You can learn what to expect and how you can best help her.

Remember that breastfeeding is new to both mother and baby. By helping out, you allow your partner the chance to focus on her important task of breastfeeding.

Here are a few suggestions of how to be encouraging during the first few weeks:

• Your partner may be worried that the baby is not getting enough milk. At time she may also feel like giving up. Always express your confidence in her ability to breastfeed.
• Hold baby, skin to skin, as your partner gets comfortable and prepares to breastfeed.
• Burp baby after your partner is done breastfeeding. This will give your partner a little extra time to rest.
• Be an extra set of hands. As mother and baby learn this new task, be there to help with good latching and positioning.
• Make sure your partner is comfortable. Bring a pillow or blankets to prop up baby or to make your partner more at ease.
• When family and friends are unsupportive, remind your partner of the wonderful benefits she is providing for baby. Be her #1 fan.
• Your partner may be tired due to lack of sleep. Help with household tasks to give her a little more time to rest.
• If your partner has any concerns or problems, contact a specialist.

Though mother and baby do become more comfortable with breastfeeding over time, your continued encouragement and support is needed. This is especially important if there is criticism from others. Let her know you have confidence in her. Continue to remind her of the service that she is providing for baby.