The role of the non-breastfeeding parent
The non-breastfeeding parent can often feel left out of a huge part of parenting if their partner is breastfeeding, but that’s absolutely not the case! Looking after your partner enables them to learn how to breastfeed in a supportive, loving environment.
Read on to learn more about the important role the non-breastfeeding parent plays and how they can support their partner’s breastfeeding journey.
Give them the time they need to establish breastfeeding
In the first few weeks, whilst breastfeeding is being established, uninterrupted time between mum & baby is crucial to supporting breastfeeding. It’s a learned skill that takes a little time to get the hang of, so making sure your baby is kept at the breast, close to mum, is the best way you can support your family.
Focusing on things like the house chores, food shopping and cooking means your partner can reast and focus on breastfeeding.
Feed & hydrate
Producing milk burns several hundred calories every day, and many mothers put their own needs at the bottom of the list, including basic needs like food and water.
Make sure she’s always got a snack and water bottle nearby, cook her nutritious meals and remind her to hydrate.
What seems like small things can make the world of difference to her energy levels and wellbeing.
Be the gatekeeper with visitors
Of course lots of people will want to see your beautiful new bundle of joy, but too many visitors can not only be overwhelming, but can disrupt breastfeeding due to too many distractions, baby being passed around instead of kept with mum and feeds potentially stretched or cut short due to visitors arriving of waiting for them to leave.
Boost their confidence
Confidence plays a crucial role in breastfeeding successfully and studies show that, “Mothers feel more capable and confident about breastfeeding when they perceive their partners are supportive”. (Mannion et al, 2013)
Help them get help
If they’re struggling and need support, help them to get it. Do your research in your local area, find someone qualified, ask friends/family for recommendations.
In the meantime, you could research the relevant topics online (from trusted, qualified people/websites) to see if anything can help until they can access 1 to 1 support.
Presenting your partner with different options and figuring our some of that admin means they can focus on feeding your baby through the challenges they’re facing.
Shut down unsupportive opinions and advice
Unsolicited comments and advice can not only be upsetting or your partner, but can really knok their confidence.
Discuss with your partner what they’d like to happen if something does ever get said, to ensure you’re both prepared and comfortable with the way it’ll be handled by the both of you.
If you’d like to feel more prepared to breastfeed, or need some support with any challenges you’re facing – get in touch and let’s have a chat to find the best way to help you.
