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Just for Dads!
The greatest gift you can give an expectant mother is your support in her breastfeeding. Breastfeeding offers a baby the very best in a healthy start. For a multitude of reasons why Mom should breastfeed see Benefits of Breastfeeding. Read on to find out how you can help!
Sometimes dads are uncomfortable with the fact that Mom wants to breastfeed. Remember, this is in the best interest of the baby and will give them the healthiest start possible in life. Breastfeeding is a very natural process that is nothing to be ashamed of. Actually, you should be very proud that Mom is committed to providing the best for the baby and encourage her every step of the way.? Because Mom will be doing most of the feeding (unless she is pumping milk for bottle feedings), here are some things you can do to help:
SUPPORT!! Moms are much more likely to succeed when Dad is excited about breastfeeding and encourages her. Try especially hard in the beginning stages to stay close by so that if Mom needs something while nursing she doesn’t have to strain to get your attention. After getting a baby latched on well, the last thing Mom wants to do is jump up to get the phone or a Kleenex or a burp cloth!
Burp the baby! When Mom finishes on one breast, take the baby on your shoulder and burp him or her. Walk around and try to stimulate the baby to keep them awake for the next round. This will give Mom a brief break allowing her to prepare for nursing on the other side, while giving you some one-on-one time!
Change baby’s diaper! After mom is done feeding (or before, or during!!), baby may need a diaper change. Be close by and offer to change your little one when the time comes. Again this will give you some one-on-one time to gaze into your precious little one’s eyes and talk Daddy babble!
Offer a Night Feeding! Mom will surely be pumping and storing milk at some point to cover unexpected time away from baby. Offer to take the night shift once in awhile to let Mom get a good nights rest. You will be amazed at what 6-7 hours of uninterrupted sleep will do for Mom! Again this will give you some one-on-one time with baby.
Bath time! If you are feeling a little left out of the whole baby scene, with Mom nursing every couple of hours, try taking on the responsibility of bath time! Babies need to be clean and you already know how soap and water work, so there is very little learning curve here. The main things to remember are NEVER EVER leave baby alone near any amount of water, ALWAYS test the water temperature with a wrist or elbow before placing baby in water, and save the diaper area for washing last. E-A-S-Y!! This will give Mom time to rest and you some much needed bonding time with baby.
