Breastfeeding is a lovely way to connect with your baby. If you're a dad or partner, you might be worried that you might "miss out" on bonding with your baby. Don't worry – there are load of ways to build that special bond with baby too!
How can I support my partner?
As the dad or partner you might think that there isn’t much that you can do to help with breastfeeding – but think again! Here are some tips for supporting your partner through this process.
Tip #1: It's not always instant
Tip #1: It's not always instant
Tip #2: Breastfeeding can be difficult
Tip #2: Breastfeeding can be difficult
Tip #3: Breastfeeding takes energy
Tip #3: Breastfeeding takes energy
Tip #4: Breastfeeding takes time
Tip #4: Breastfeeding takes time
Tip #5: Be the nappy changer
Tip #5: Be the nappy changer
Tip #6: The show must go on
Tip #6: The show must go on
Tip #7: Expressing
Tip #7: Expressing
Will I miss out if my partner’s breastfeeding?
One reason some mums look at other ways to feed their baby is that they want their baby to bond with their partner too. But there are loads of ways you can bond with your baby if your partner is breastfeeding!
- Bring baby to mum when they need to be breastfed. If you can do this at night, it can be a real lifesaver!
- Rub their back for a burp afterwards.
- Placing your baby on your bare chest for skin-to-skin contact. It creates a bond and soothes your baby.
- Bathe your baby together.
- Take them for a walk around the park while your partner has a nap.
- Put them down for a sleep.
- Reading a story is a great way for your partner and baby to spend time together.
- Your baby will grow to recognise and love the sound of your voice.
- Changing nappies! Sing songs, pull funny faces or simply talk to baby: your baby will love the one-to-one attention and you will love the break!
- Put them in a sling and cuddle together.
In this short video, new mum Grace talks about how breast feeding brought her and her partner closer.
Top tips from other parents
Here’s some inside info from parents from around Scotland on how they’ve helped their partners breastfeed.
Tip #1: Wee things make a big difference
Tip #1: Wee things make a big difference
Tip #2: Moral support makes a difference
Tip #2: Moral support makes a difference
Tip #3: Be there to listen
Tip #3: Be there to listen
Tip #4: Do some research
Tip #4: Do some research
Tip #5: Know your facts
Tip #5: Know your facts
Tip #6: You’ll get there in the end
Tip #6: You’ll get there in the end
Tip #7: Focus on baby’s needs
Tip #7: Focus on baby’s needs
Tip #8: Don’t be scared to ask for help
Tip #8: Don’t be scared to ask for help
Tips for supporting your partner
In this short video, new dad Andy explains how he supports his partner while she's breastfeeding their newborn and looks after their toddler.
In this film, dad Ryan shares his tips for supporting your partner in the early days.
How support from a partner can make all the difference
In this film, mum Kat explains how support and encouragement from her partner Ryan helped her overcome her breastfeeding issues.
Want more help with breastfeeding?
Parent Club is full of information to help you know what to expect, spot any issues, and support you at each stage of feeding your baby.
Both you and your partner should feel free to call the National Breastfeeding Helpline (0300 100 0212 between 9.30 am and 9.30 pm) for help and advice whenever you need it.