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Let’s be honest here. No matter what people tell you, breastfeeding is not easy. There are some women who are natural when it’s time to breastfeed. But for others like us, it is a rough road ahead. There’s no denying that it’s a beautiful phase. It’s the most beautiful experience that you get to share with your baby, but it can be frustrating. And dads don’t have to be just the watchers during the breastfeeding time. Moms could use some support at this point, and we are not talking about moral support here (Of course, that is important too).
Have you ever wondered how your husband can really help you when you are breastfeeding? If you are a woman who wishes to breastfeed her baby but could use some help, this post is for you. And if you are already at a struggling phase but doesn’t want to forfeit yet, we say it’s time to involve your partner. Here, we bring to you 5 ways dads can actually help with breastfeeding:
1. An Extra Set Of Hands Will Always Help
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In the first few weeks or even months, you are still trying to figure out what position works for you and your baby. You might still be on the process of figuring out a comfortable way to sit and hold your baby (while eating some snacks). You both may require some additional support during this time. And that’s when the daddy can swoop in.
2. To Do Some Fetching
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You sit down to feed your baby and realize that the remote or a snack is out of reach. How many times have you found yourself in this dilemma? Instead of doing it all by yourself, ask your husband to lend a hand. Doing too many things at once and then feeling frustrated is not the solution here. Your husband can bring over your juice or remote or whatever it is that you want on your side so that you can breastfeed in peace.
3. Take Care Of Diaper Changes, Especially At Night
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There’s so much a dad can do. Even if he is not directly involved with breastfeeding, doing this will help you tons. And they might be happy to help. Your partner must be taking care of the diaper change duties during the day. But if daddy is in charge of the nighttime diaper duty, you will get more sleep. And sleep is important, ladies!
4. Clean The Pump Pieces
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You cannot expect your husband to do the actual pumping. But the one thing your partner can do is clean the pump pieces. Pumping is the least sexy thing that you might have to do. But hey, if you are working or need a break from breastfeeding to catch up on sleep, it’s the best thing to do. Your husband may also get some bonding time with the baby. But pumping is a lot of work too, especially when you are tired and sleep deprived with an aching body. So, ask your husband to do the cleaning and the sanitizing of the pump pieces. He can also help package and label the milk bags.
Image: IStock
This brings me to my next point. Ask your husband to take over the feedings whenever he can. This way you can catch up on some sleep and find time for something else that you need to do. Your husband might be more than delighted to spend his time with the baby whenever he can. And watching your husband feed your little one is sure to give you an eyegasm.
Mommy, don’t try to be a supermom and do it all by yourself. Unless you are a breastfeeding ninja, of course. Let your husband do some of the work. Taking it all upon yourself is only going to make you frustrated and resentful at the end. And we are sure you don’t want that.
Does your husband help you with breastfeeding? Would you like to suggest some more ways that dads can help? Do let us know in the comment section below.
