10 ways fathers can support new mothers in breastfeeding

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It is a known fact that breastfeeding is only for mothers but even the male partners can be a part of the journey. Dr Vrushali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, Pune says, "Male partners can ensure that their female partners are comfortable while breastfeeding the child."

With the ongoing World Breastfeeding Week 2023, we list ways in which fathers can make a valuable contribution during breastfeeding by supporting their partners.

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for the baby. It helps the baby to build immunity and keeps him/her away from various allergies, diseases and infections. Breastfeeding can often be challenging for some women. But, as a new father and partner to a breastfeeding mother, it can be overwhelming to navigate the new role and support the breastfeeding partner. Although a male partner is not the one in charge of feeding the baby, there are still many ways that you can be helpful to the female partner.

1. Support your partner:
The new fathers have to support the new mothers by learning the benefits, challenges and importance of breastfeeding. They should know how breastfeeding works in order to support their partner. They should help their partners to develop positive attitudes when it comes to breastfeeding and come up with coping strategies too.

2. Be available for the partner
Breastfeeding is often considered a lonely business. Fathers need to show encouragement through words and actions by also giving emotional and practical support during this crucial time. You can just be there for the partner to cheer her up so that she forgets about the pain and feels better because of your kind words.

3. Help with physical support
It is essential to cooperate and support new mothers by getting involved in day-to-day activities. The fathers can participate in baby care, bathing the baby, diaper changing, dressing, hugging and caring for the baby. This will also encourage bonding between the father and the little one. Fathers must also be proactive in helping their female partners by helping them to get sound sleep while they take care of the baby.

4. Help in latching
This is a matter of concern for a new breastfeeding mother. Hence, help the partner with the correct position when it comes to the baby for a proper latch. With you by her side, she'll feel more empowered to breastfeed the baby.

5. Help with baby duties
Washing burp rags, cloth diapers (if you use them), receiving blankets, pump parts and baby bottles will help the partner get easy access to clean equipment for the baby. It will make your partner feel good as well.

6. Take a stand for your partner
Being a new parent comes with its fair share of challenges - one being the constant influx of unsolicited advice and unexpected visitors. It seems like every passerby on the street, family member, or even casual acquaintance is more than willing to share their own parenting strategies and feeding recommendations with you.

However, it is crucial that you remain steadfast in supporting your partner's decision to breastfeed by firmly addressing those who offer unwelcoming advice or opinions. Furthermore, if your partner is feeling exhausted from the demands of motherhood, it becomes necessary to establish firm boundaries regarding visitation. Understand that during this transition into motherhood, your partner may feel hesitant about asserting herself; therefore, stepping up as her advocate becomes imperative.

7. Try to get up at night with your partner
Support her during nighttime awakenings. If it is feasible for you to join her during nighttime awakenings, she will repeatedly express gratitude towards you. Considering your morning work commitments, it may not always be practical for you to wake up for every feeding session throughout the night, but whenever possible, take the initiative in bringing the baby to her for feedings. Aid in finding a comfortable position. Furthermore, changing diapers and comforting the baby back to sleep are also ways in which you can contribute supportively during these nocturnal motherents. Make an effort to assist and provide reassurance whenever she experiences these nightly interruptions.

8. Keep an eye on her health
Make it your top priority to have daily conversations with her regarding her breastfeeding experience. Display sincere interest in understanding the hurdles she might be encountering. Whether it's struggling with latching difficulties, discomfort, inadequate milk supply or other concerns, make sure you stand by her side and offer your unwavering support. Engage in joint research efforts, consult lactation specialists or doctors together and address any issues as a cohesive team. Remember that various factors can impact a mother's breastfeeding journey, hence ensure you are present for her at every step and take efforts to foster an optimally positive experience.

9. Give her a massage
Massages are highly appreciated by most mothers. The body exerts substantial effort in producing and sustaining milk supply. Additionally, adopting a nursing position can result in considerable pain in the back, shoulders and neck regions. A massage helps to alleviate tension and stress that these mothers may encounter while also promoting relaxation and facilitating better sleep patterns. One could consider offering assistance by massaging them during breastfeeding or providing a comforting back rub at the day's end - any massage offered at any time is an ideal gesture.

10. Be her best cheerleader
Don't forget to express your gratitude towards her and become her number-one fan. Embrace the significance of her role as a mother and above all, express your appreciation for it. Most mothers aspire to succeed in breastfeeding, so acknowledge her commitment and always be there to cheer her on. Breastfeeding demands immense efforts and selflessness in order to provide optimal nourishment for your baby. Hence, assure her that you are fully committed to supporting her at every single step of the way.

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