Fathers Play A Big Role In Breastfeeding
The phrase ‘It takes two to make a thing go right” isn’t just a song lyric— it’s also a parenting truth. Although we often focus on mothers in our blogs, fathers have always played an important role in parenting right from the beginning! It may surprise you to know that fathers even play an important role in breastfeeding.
In fact, research studies indicate that the father’s attitude on breastfeeding has a strong correlation with how successful the mother will be at it. CNN reports that research published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that when fathers support the mother breastfeeding their child, the mom has a 95% chance of initiating breastfeeding, and a 78% percent chance of continuing to breastfeed at 8 weeks. Psychology Today also reports that moms who choose to bottle feed often choose to do so because of the father’s preference.
This is in contrast to participants who reported that the father either didn’t want the mom to breastfeed or had no opinion. In these cases, breastfeeding initiation dropped sharply, with only 69% of moms reporting breastfeeding initiation and only 33% percent of moms continuing to breastfeed for up to 8 weeks. This dramatic difference shines a light on the important role dads play in breastfeeding. So today we want to wish all fathers a Happy and show appreciation for the various ways that great dads are supporting the breastfeeding journey
Taking on Household and Care Tasks
Breastfeeding is a very important and often rewarding part of parenting. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t challenging. Breastfeed babies need to be fed more often and around the clock. For moms with a lot of household responsibilities on their plate, breastfeeding constantly can be an added stressor. For some moms, these additional responsibilities may dissuade them from adding breastfeeding to their already full plate. Dad’s help to take the pressure off mom by taking on some of the responsibilities and chores. In doing so, fathers allow moms the time to breastfeed.
Helping Get Mom set up for Breastfeeding
Some fathers are also helping mom during the breastfeeding process. What to Expect advises that dads can do this by helping to find a good space in the home for mom to breastfeed. As well as making sure mom has the tissues, lactation pads, a glass of water, or anything else she may need. Fathers may also help mom with breastfeeding by helping to position the baby to latch on properly.
Reducing feelings of isolation for mom
While motherhood is a joyful time, moms can often feel isolated and alone in this period. Many moms may feel uncomfortable nursing in public or even just their friends. As the baby will need feedings frequently, and at all hours, this can make socializing challenging for nursing moms. However, La Leche League International reports that when dads have a favorable attitude about moms breastfeeding in public, moms often feel comfortable to do so as well. This allows mom the opportunity to maintain social connections outside the household.
To the fathers who take on the late-night chores, offer a listening ear, and create a calm space for mom to breastfeed—Your support nourishes her spirit. By lightening the load and simply being there, you help her feel seen, supported, and never alone. We just want to say thank you.
Final Thoughts
While breastfeeding is often thought of as mom’s responsibilities, fathers play an important role in its success. They do this by providing an environment where mom feels comfortable breastfeeding, but also has the time and space to do so. In taking on care tasks such as bathing the baby, cuddling skin to skin, bottlefeeding pumped milk, or changing diapers, the father is not only easing mom’s load but also developing a deep and early bond with their baby. If you enjoyed this article, please remember to share. You may also be interested in The Role of Good Fathers In The Breastfeeding Journey – Breastfeeding Perspectives
