Your partner has decided to breastfeed your child – and that’s amazing! Breastfeeding has many benefits for the physical and mental development of the baby. You may think that, as a dad, you don’t have any place in this process, but there are many ways that you can help:
Be Prepared – You can help your partner prepare for breastfeeding by doing as much research on the subject as you can. You can even sign up for a breastfeeding class with your partner. Being knowledgeable on the subject will help you help your partner.
Offer Support – Your partner needs to know you are there for her. Verbally tell her that you support her decision to breastfeed, and offer encouragement when it gets difficult. Breastfeeding is a learning experience for moms, and every child is different. Your support will help her be more confident in her decision to breastfeed.
Be There When She Needs You – If you can take paternity leave, you should do so. Or at least take a few vacation days around the time that the baby is born so that you can assist your partner. It’s essential that she not feel alone during this time.
These are just three of the ways you can be there for your partner during the breastfeeding process. Stay tuned for our next post, where we will provide even more advice for navigating this very rewarding and challenging time.
Did you know that your partner can get a free breast pump with insurance in Texas? Contact us today at (210) 591-1818.
