A Dad's guide...

Why dads matter in breastfeeding

Breastmilk is crucial for a newborn’s health and development, creating a special bond between parents and baby. While Mums often receive plenty of advice on breastfeeding, Dads may feel left out. However, Dads can support their partners on this journey in many ways.

Many fathers may not realise just how much they can do to feel involved, helpful, and included in breastfeeding.

There are things that you can do to support your partner and help make things easier for her.

Supporting mum during feeds

Ensure Mum is comfortable while breastfeeding by offering pillows or a footstool. Check if she is hungry or thirsty — has she even eaten today? Did you know that breastfeeding mothers need an extra 500 calories each day? Be sure to keep Mum fed with nutritious foods.

Breastfeeding is also thirsty work, so keep her well hydrated. She may simply enjoy having your company while she is breastfeeding.

Helping during night feeds

Help out during night feeds by changing nappies, getting supplies, or offering snacks and water (snacks are always welcome). Hold baby so she can go to the bathroom. These little things will be so appreciated.

Supporting rest and recovery

At times, Mums can try to do everything, which results in burnout. We forget to look after ourselves. This might be when you, as Dad, offer to give Mum some rest. She may be happy to go and get some much-needed rest while you give the baby a bottle of expressed breast milk.

Many mothers avoid going and resting as they know they have to get back up to feed their baby, so if Dad can take over a feeding session, this can be comforting. However, you don’t have to introduce bottles to feel involved. Feeding your baby is just one way you care for them.

It is recommended that exclusive breastfeeding is established first, and if you want to introduce a bottle, it is best to do this from 6 weeks.

Helping with pumping

If Mum is pumping, learn how to prepare, clean, and sterilise bottles and pumping equipment. Get educated about storing breastmilk safely and how to prepare it.

You can also help prepare the breast pump, ensuring she has all the parts she needs.

Taking on practical support

Take on more housework or enlist outside help, particularly in the early weeks. Ensure plenty of food is in the house so everyone is well nourished.

Babies love to feed frequently in the evenings, so this is a great opportunity for you to cook a nutritious meal for both of you.

Be patient and understanding

Be patient. Understand that breastfeeding can take time, and know it isn’t just about nutrition — it is much more than that. Bonding at the breast is just as important for baby.

Each feed can vary in length, so please don’t rush the process.

Supporting the whole family

If you have older children, spend time with them so they don’t feel left out with a new baby at home. They may feel slightly pushed away because Mum is busy with the baby.

Bonding with your baby

The first few weeks are very important for establishing a mother's breast milk supply and for bonding with baby. Everyone is getting to know each other.

I understand you are very excited and want to bond with your baby too. You can get to know your baby by changing their nappy, playing with them, bathing and massaging them, and cuddling them to sleep.

Take any opportunity to carry your baby in a sling or carrier and enjoy skin-to-skin cuddling to help with bonding and settling.

Be present in the early weeks

Take time away from work. If you have the option to be at home in the first few weeks after your baby is born, then do so. These first weeks are the ultimate love bubble. If you can experience this with Mum, you will not regret it.

This time cannot be recreated — you are an important and essential part of your child’s early development.

Working as a team

Dads need to be involved in the breastfeeding journey, attending sessions with a lactation consultant and setting expectations with their partners. By working as a team and offering support, you can help make the breastfeeding experience a positive and fulfilling one for both Mum and baby.