Nurturing together: Breastfeeding tips for parents and partners
August 20, 2023By: Tara Lynch, RN, BSN, IBCLC
Categories: Women's Health
When you bring home your new baby, there is so much to learn about caring for your newborn. If you decide to be a breastfeeding parent, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding within the first hour of your baby’s birth. Feeding your baby as soon as they show feeding cues helps build their immune system and encourages a good milk supply in the nursing parent.
Breastfeeding benefits for you
While breastfeeding is beneficial to babies, the breastfeeding parent can also benefit from an intimate connection with their new baby.
- Reduces your risk of developing osteoporosis, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and breast and ovarian cancers.
- Helps contract the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size through the increased production of oxytocin. With contracting the uterus, it decreases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
- Decreases your chances of developing postpartum depression.
Breastfeeding basics for parents
Tips for your breastfeeding journey
Breastfeeding is a journey, and everyone’s journey is unique. Here are some tips to help you through your breastfeeding journey:
#1 Drink fluids: Fluids help increase the milk supply and receive the nutrients your baby needs in the first six months of breastfeeding.
#2 Care for your nipples: Breastfeeding should not be painful. If you experience any pain during breastfeeding, contact your lactation consultant for latching help.
#3 Know when to see a doctor: See a doctor or your lactation consultant if you have a red, sore, or painful spot on your breast, painful engorged breasts, a fever or feel achy.
Supporting a breastfeeding parent
Having a strong support system is essential to the breastfeeding journey. Partners who aren’t nursing can help you by:
- Attending breastfeeding sessions.
- Changing diapers.
- Helping with bath time.
- Giving encouragement to the nursing parent and building their confidence.
- Bringing the nursing parent dinner or a book to read while they're feeding the baby.
Your baby's birth is a life-changing experience. Building community with other breastfeeding parents can help you connect and find support around common concerns, interests, back-to-work issues and offers group problem solving and personalized care as needed. Find a breastfeeding class near you.
