Dads Can Breastfeed Too!
Updated: Jun 14, 2022
Ok, maybe not exactly. But now that you've clicked.... while we know that fathers are not equipped with breasts, there's still a LOT that dad can do to support successful breastfeeding.
Here’s 5 things that dad can do right now:
1. Be a cheerleader and play some defense:
Cheer mom on: A well-timed ‘let’s try that again,’ or ‘that’s amazing!’ can be invaluable.
Be a great defender: Head off discouragement and deflect negative comments from friends, relatives, and in-laws.
2. Calm a fussy baby:
Once baby has nursed her fill, dad can take over and burp the baby.
3. Spend time with baby so mom can rest:
Hang out: Cuddle, play on the floor, and relax in a chair while baby naps on dad’s chest.
Go out: Take baby for a walk in a stroller, a sling or a carrier.
and Help out: Burp, Bathe, and put baby down for her nap.
4. Be a breastfeeding concierge:
Bring mom food and drink while she is breastfeeding.
Bring nursing pillows to position baby and make mom comfy.
5. Feed baby:
Bottle-feed baby with breast milk and take over some feeding times (if expressing milk manually or with a pump works for mom). This can also help mom get ready to go back to work!
With Warmth and Wellness,
Your EmmaWell Team