12 Ways Partners Can Actually Help With Breastfeeding

Published on 6/27/2016 at 2:44 PM

Even if you aren't the one physically breastfeeding your child, that doesn't mean that you can't share in some of the work. Despite what you might think, it's very possible to help a nursing mama out during her breastfeeding journey without being the one to produce milk. From getting strategic with pumping schedules to being her buffer at all times, these are 12 helpful ways that partners can get involved and make breastfeeding easier on nursing moms.

Don’t Say the F Word

Breastfeeding is a stressful time that takes a ton of dedication. Don't devalue her effort by constantly suggesting an "easier" way out: formula.

Consistently Be Vocal With Your Support

Not only is breastfeeding exhausting, but it can also feel isolating and overwhelming. Constantly remind mom that she's not alone and how proud you are that she's giving your child something that nobody else can.

Be Her Buffer

From the onslaught of opinions and looks from strangers to the guests who overstay their welcome, be her backup and shield at all times.

Read Up So You Can know What’s Going On

Even if you're not the one physically producing the milk, it's still just as important that you be informed and aware of exactly what her body is going through. This not only keeps you more involved, but it also helps her to feel more supported and like she has a partner in this.

Use Your Hands

Different massages and acupressure points can help get her milk flowing.

Be a Team Player

You're both on the same team even if you're playing different positions! Wake up with her during night feedings and be an extra set of hands just to swaddle and burp so it doesn't all fall on her.

She Pumps, You Clean

While pumping can be very helpful in the long run, it can make a big mess in a short amount of time. Be the one who washes all of the parts in between sessions and have things ready to go to help save her time in any way you can.

Create the Space — Without Her Even Having to Ask

Nesting doesn't end when she has the baby. Each time she breastfeeds, make sure that she's set up in a comfortable spot with everything she might need in reach so that she doesn't have to disturb the baby or go without any essentials.

Take Over Other Responsibilities

Whether you decide that because she does the input, you'll take care of the output or are always on dinner and bath duty, even if you can't physically breastfeed doesn't mean you can't pick up the slack elsewhere to make the process less taxing.

Always Have Backup

She is on the baby's schedule around the clock, no matter where she is, so the least you can do is always be prepared with extra clothes, covers, pump parts, and batteries — or anything else that she might need but not always remember.

Bring the Humor

It doesn't always have to be serious or stressful. Lighten the mood (and help with her frustration!) by bringing some respectful humor to this new time in her life.

She Pumps During the Day, So You Can Feed at Night

If late-night feedings are taking a serious toll on mama, take over the after-dark shifts with pumped breast milk to let her get some well-deserved sleep.