A father can play a very important role in the success of breastfeeding. He can offer support, encouragement and confidence to a new mother.
Ways that fathers can get involved include attending prenatal breastfeeding classes with an expectant mother and reading a book on breastfeeding. Fathers also can help their partner feel comfortable while breastfeeding by getting extra pillows or bringing a snack or a beverage for mom when breastfeeding.
A father can burp the baby, change diapers, massage mom's neck and shoulders encouraging relaxation, and bring baby to mom when baby is hungry. If mom is away and has pumped breast milk ahead of time, dad can bottle-feed the baby.
Ask your partner how you can help decrease her stress. This may include taking over more of the household tasks such as cooking and cleaning. When she is breastfeeding, ask if you can bring her anything and be sure to look after other children so that breastfeeding time is uninterrupted.
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