Life as a breastfeeding dad
Before our daughter Beatrix was born, we decided we would attempt to breastfeed her rather than bottle feed her to give her the best start in life. So far, one week in, things are going really well. However, the main problem for me, as the dad, is breastfeeding is not exactly something I can do (no cheeky comments about my figure now!). As I’ve begun to realise though, this doesn’t mean there is nothing for me to do while Shelley is breastfeeding. So far my list of jobs have included:
- Fetching extra pillows to prop her up
- Rearranging the current set of pillows to make her more comfortable
- Fetching a stool for her to put her feet on
- Fetching her drinks - breastfeeding is thirsty work
- Stripping Beatrix before the feed to ensure she is not so cosy she falls asleep while feeding
- Keeping Beatrix awake by tickling her feet or playing with her hands
- Holding Beatrix in position
- Answering the door or phone while Shelley is breastfeeding
- Fetching muslins to wipe up any spillages
- Getting the changing mat, top and tail bowl, cotton wool, nappy and clean clothes ready for a change afterwards if required
- And most importantly - chatting to Shelley and keeping her company
I’m sure there are some things I have forgotten - but hopefully you now understand, breastfeeding is something both parents take part in - not just the mother.
Tags: Life
February 12th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
You could also get one of these…
http://digital–underground.tripod.com/id8.htm
February 12th, 2008 at 11:31 pm
Yeah - perhaps not
February 13th, 2008 at 3:15 am
The best description I’ve ever seen of a dad’s role in breastfeeding -
“Dads teach their babies that there is more to love than food, and that there is a world outside of Mommy.” (http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/362_762.asp)