What was the role of your partner in your breastfeeding journey?

What was the role of your partner in your breastfeeding journey?

When it comes to breastfeeding, you might wonder what you can do to support your partner and baby. The truth is you can make a huge difference.Many parents see breastfeeding as a natural process but it can take time for mum and baby to learn this new skill together. It might take around six weeks to get the hang of it fully.Accept the commitment: Time, emotional and sometimes financial commitments — let’s be honest: breastfeeding can sometimes require a little boost. It can require some extra energy and loving care at the beginning if a baby doesn’t latch right away, falls asleep while breastfeeding, or simply takes a while to empty the breasts. The first few weeks of breastfeeding — and mothering in general — can be emotionally taxing as well. Also, depending upon your health care coverage and what area of the world you live in, in the event of an extraordinary breastfeeding challenge, your doctor may recommend you seek out an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant requiring a fee. In addition, renting or purchasing a breast pump or other equipment might prove helpful to overcoming a specific hurdle. A partner can accept this initial commitment to breastfeeding, knowing that in the long run, breastfeeding takes less time than bottle feeding, supports the postpartum adjustment, and saves money.Be a gatekeeper: A partner can maintain boundaries when others may demand the time or attention of the breastfeeding parent. The partner can answer the door or the phone, and can let others know that the new mother needs time alone or some rest.: I like to think of the breastfeeding mother like a pitcher of water, and her baby as the glass. If the pitcher is filled to the brim with water, it is easy to pour out. When the pitcher is empty, it is difficult or impossible to pour out. The partner can help the nursing mother “fill her pitcher” so that she may “pour out” her love, time and attention with more ease. Here are a few ways:  Respect her needs regarding touch. Some breastfeeding mothers feel “touched out” and desire less touch from their partner. Others desire additional affection from their partner because they are giving so much to their baby. Some breastfeeding mothers do not like their breasts touched sexually and others don’t have a problem with it. [5] Keep lines of communication open, and remember that this is all temporary. You will likely return to your former relationship over time.Honor her basic needs regarding eating, sleeping, time alone, bathing/showering and exercising.Facilitate socializing. Being a new parent can feel isolating. When the mother is ready, the partner can make it easier for her to breastfeed with company in the home or while visiting others. Partners can also show that they are comfortable with the act of nursing in public, which in turn can make the mother feel more comfortable. One simple way the partner can do this is by sitting beside her using confident body language, perhaps with a tall back and friendly eye contact with others.