How Partners Can Get Involved

Partners have a big influence on the breastfeeding journey. Partners can support the breastfeeding journey by preparing even before the baby arrives. Before the arrival of baby, partners may feel nervous about the changes that are about to occur, afraid of being excluded from bonding, and even that they may not be able to help out as much. There are many ways to get involved both during pregnancy and postpartum to ensure that mom and baby are off to a great start.

Before Arrival

  • Take a breastfeeding education course together. This way you both know what to expect in the early days of breastfeeding. Having two sets of ears listening in will help when the time comes to recall information discussed. Also being proactive will take stress away from the mom having to remember information solely, while teaching the partner as well.

  • Prepare beforehand by setting preferences and goals of what you envision the journey to look like. This could be as simple as meeting prenatally with a lactation professional, talking to family & friends about boundaries, and deciding if pumping will be utilized.

  • Create a Birth Preference that supports your desire to breastfeeding. As mentioned, just having a layout of what is desired between everyone will make the journey smoother and creates a united front.

At Home

  • For Mom

    • Make sure mom is fed and has plenty to drink

    • Be The Guard on duty, as discussed in the boundaries discussed beforehand, and filter visitors as needed so that everyone can get rest. Also there may be those who don’t agree or understand what you all have decided on your breastfeeding journey. Keeping those negative comments and feeling away can be helpful.

    • Encourage! Use the love language that mom prefers, words of encouragement or buying gifts to show gratitude and appreciation.

  • For Baby

    • You can also do skin-to-skin! Between feedings, partners can hold baby and still get that bond. Skin to skin from both parents have numerous benefits such lower cortisol levels, stabilized breathing for baby, stabilize blood sugar levels and heart rate. Skin to skin can look like bathing, dancing, singing and snuggling around together.

    • Playful Times. Now is the perfect time to be the fun parent. Spend time creating playtime through tummy time or even gentle games that include music and colors.

Other ways to assist include:

Putting the baby to sleep after feedings

Wearing the baby in a sling or wrap around the house

Bottle feed if mom is pumping

Cleaning pumping parts

Tend to the older children

Research shows that a supportive and involved partner is crucial to successful breastfeeding. Do not underestimate your importance during this journey. By the same token, know when to reach out for support for yourself as well. Never feel like you cannot be as involved, breastfeeding is not just for mom, it is a group effort.

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