Dads and Breastfeeding

A baby is born! Both mother and baby have help in bonding through maternal hormones and breastfeeding and sometimes Dads can feel “left out”. For older babies, breastfeeding can seem to be the magic potion that calms the baby. What can the father of a breastfed baby do? A lot!

Many breastfeeding moms say that they could not have been successful at breastfeeding without the support and encouragement of the baby’s father. Although men cannot breastfeed, they can support mother and baby with encouragement, sharing in baby care tasks and letting mom know she is doing a great job providing her milk, the best food for their baby.

What else is there to do besides breastfeeding? Dads are great at massaging the baby, holding and soothing babies on their chest or in their arms, burping babies, and giving baby baths. Dads will often find their own unique way to comfort or bond with their baby.

Studies have shown that an involved, supportive, loving father enhances the experience, helping the mother to be successful with breastfeeding. Just a few kind words can make a huge difference to a new mom who is still learning about breastfeeding and her mothering role.

Friends and relatives can also be great support to a nursing couple! A new mom will do well to surround herself with a team of people supportive of breastfeeding. The baby’s Dad and these other supporters can help to reduce the influence of any negative comments or information. Dad may want to take on the role of “defender” of breastfeeding by having an answer ready for any negative comments that might shake the mother’s confidence.

Dads have their own unique relationship with their babies. Treasure that and watch a beautiful relationship grow