Helping with feeds
Having a new child can definitely be a frustrating time – for you, because you've got such a big job to do, and for dads, because they feel a bit like a spare part. But there's actually quite a lot dads can do to help, even though they’re not the one with the on-tap breast milk supply!
• Some mums find expressing breast milk difficult or painful so this isn't always an option, but if you are able to express milk you should wait until your child’s 6 to 8 weeks old and used to breast-feeding before you start letting your partner take over some feeds.
• Getting dad involved with some expressed breast-feed also helps them to bond with the child but give it some time – your child may take time to adjust to this new feeding method, so make sure your partner keeps on trying.
• Taking over one of the night-time feeds if he can, will be the greatest help, as it allows you to have a much longer sleep.
Skin-to-skin contact with dad
A good way for dad to build the bond with your child is to have skin-to-skin contact with them, just as your child has with you during breast-feeds. So try getting dad to put your child on his shirtless chest for a cuddle, or even a quick nap
Once the bond is built with dad, your child may feel more comfortable about taking bottlefeeds of expressed breast milk from him. But don’t let dad take it personally if your child doesn’t take a bottlefeed of expressed breast milk; some children simply prefer the breast.
Getting support from your partner
Breast-feeding can be hard work. You’re quite likely to be emotional in the first few weeks after giving birth with little energy for anything more than looking after your child.
It’s important for dads to be supportive and understanding and to take on the majority of the tasks that need doing around the home, including cleaning, shopping and cooking.