Yes it is true that formula feeding babies can be fed by their daddies, and maybe that can help with building a connection between the two. But guess what? Fathers can still develop a strong, loving relationship with a breastfed baby…and help a ton in the process!
By taking the time to learn about breastfeeding, a father can be a breastfeeding mom and baby’s biggest support. If a father knows about breastfeeding, including the benefits for baby and mommy, along with how breastfeeding can help society in general, he will automatically be more able to understand and support his partner’s decision to breastfeed. (Added Bonus for dads: It saves $$$!) By being a good support partner, a weight will be lifted off of the mother’s shoulders and he can enjoy the benefits of knowing their baby is receiving the best start in life.
Bringing a new baby into the world is an exciting event that everyone wants to be a part of. Feeding baby is no exception. Some fathers may feel left out of this special time with baby if baby is breastfeeding. While a father can’t necessarily “breastfeed” his infant, there are several activities he can do that will bond the two just as much. The father can cuddle, bathe, burp, change diapers, take baby on a walk in a stroller, and bottle feed baby mom’s breastmilk (after breastfeeding is well established, typically sometime around four weeks of age, so there is no nipple confusion).
Ultimately, one of the best ways that daddy can help with breastfeeding is by encouraging and supporting his partner. Sometimes, moms and babies experience challenges with breastfeeding and by simply being there for mom and new baby, breastfeeding might come a lot easier. When mom is tired or feeling discomfort, she may feel overwhelmed or frustrated. At that moment, her partner’s words of encouragement, “Good job! Hang in there!” may be all she needs to hear to overcome an obstacle. When mom is going back to work or school and isn’t sure if she can continue breastfeeding, dad can reassure her of his confidence in her and assist in figuring out the plan that will work best for their baby to continue to receive mommy’s milk.
Being a new father can be hard, but in the end, being educated about breastfeeding, spending special “daddy and baby” bonding time, and being mom’s source of support and encouragement can make all the difference in breastfeeding baby.
Kelsey Munn
Dietetic Student at
University of Northern Colorado