Breastfeeding and your baby- Partners and support people

Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

Breastfeeding and your baby- Partners and support people

Just as you love, protect, and nurture your new baby, there are many things you can do to support and protect your partner as they are learning to breastfeed. Your role is different but just as important.

Why learn about breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is the normal way to feed your baby. You can help support by learning about breastfeeding. Women are more likely to successfully breastfeed and for longer, if they have a supportive and informed partner.

Why support breastfeeding?

breast milk provides all the nutrients your baby needs
breast milk reduces the risk of many diseases
breast milk is easier for your baby to digest
breastfeeding has health benefits for your partner and baby
breastfeeding is free and convenient
some women may experience difficulties and below are further support options.

How long should my partner breastfeed?

Current research recommends that you:

feed your baby only breast milk for around the first 6 months of life
introduce solids around 6 months of age; and
breastfeed into the second year and beyond.

How can partners get involved?

Your confidence and relationship with your baby will grow as you care for them. Being involved can reduce what some partners describe as ‘feeling left out’. You can:

cuddle, sing, play, read, talk to, and soothe your baby
change your baby’s nappy or bath your baby
lay your baby on your chest (‘skin to skin’)
carry your baby in a sling or go for a walk in the pram.

How can a partner provide support?

Share the experience

talk, ask questions, read, and attend classes
learn about breastfeeding and the changes in your life together
try to attend health visits.

Give emotional support

let your partner know that they are doing a great job. Acknowledge challenges and offer gentle encouragement
each new baby brings a different experience.

Provide practical support

be involved with your baby and everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, and washing
your partner will need time for physical recovery after the birth. Offer plenty of water and nutritious snacks
take your partner and the baby out for a walk or to a café if this is possible. It may help to normalise the experience of a new baby.

Look after yourself

if you feel stressed or are having trouble adjusting to your new role, consider speaking with a health professional.

Communicate

spend time talking with your partner about things that happen during the day
share your experience about breastfeeding with other dads, partners, close friends, or family.

Understand what to expect

it’s normal to experience tiredness, sleep disturbance and a change in your sex life
some days will be filled with joy, and other days may be overwhelming
if you are feeling overwhelmed it is important to seek help from your support network. You can also talk to your GP, midwife or Maternal, Child and Family Health team.

Tips for close friends, relatives, and grandparents

Your experiences and opinions are valuable. Try to:

give positive and encouraging comments
listen and be responsive
offer practical support such as caring for other children, housework and making meals
learn about breastfeeding – what you know may have changed
respect the decisions of the parents.