How to Support Your Partner During Her Breastfeeding Journey

Many people know that breastfeeding is a special time for moms and babies, but you can make a real difference, too, as a partner. Learn how to support breastfeeding mothers so they feel more confident as they navigate this journey.

How Breastfeeding Affects the Mom’s Body

While there are benefits to breastfeeding, it can be physically and mentally taxing to the mom. Here are some of the physical discomforts your partner may experience:

1.    Back Pains

Around 84% of breastfeeding mothers experience back pain at least once a month. When breastfeeding, your partner hunches over to support your baby’s head and see if the latch is good. This poor posture can result in persistent back aches.

2.    Nipple Pains

Some moms experience painful or cracked nipples due to incorrect latching, positioning or sucking. While it’s normal to experience discomfort, some women may have persistent pains that require immediate support.

3.    Higher Risk of Mastitis

Some moms with an oversupply of milk may experience mastitis, a condition that may lead to swollen and painful breasts. The discomfort can be so severe that moms may choose not to breastfeed anymore.

4.    Loss of Bodily Autonomy

Breastfeeding may complicate your partner’s relationship with her body. Her schedule now mainly revolves around your infant’s feeding needs, limiting her time for rest and other activities. She may feel she has lost ownership of her body, which can affect her self-esteem and body image.

8 Ways to Support Your Breastfeeding Partner

Your partner doesn’t have to go through these challenges alone. You can provide strength, transforming this phase into a shared experience. Here’s how you can thoughtfully support a breastfeeding mom.

1.    Pamper Her

Your partner just gave birth and is currently dealing with bodily changes. Make her feel special through simple acts of service — refill her water bottle, massage her back, prop a pillow behind her back while she’s breastfeeding or prepare her breakfast. Keep her company while breastfeeding, and make it a bonding experience for you, your partner and your little one.

2.    Provide Emotional Support

First-time moms may take a while to master the art of breastfeeding. Support your breastfeeding partner through this challenging phase by offering kind words. Encourage her to breastfeed whenever she feels comfortable. Thank her for providing sustenance for your newborn. Write her a note before leaving for work. Positive, genuine words can truly give her a boost during this time.

3.    Set Up a Nursing Nook

A nursing nook is where your partner can pump or breastfeed the baby without distractions. It includes a comfortable chair, nursing pillows, a stool and a table. Creating this safe space for your significant other shows your dedication to keeping her comfortable. You may also add nursing bras, nipple cream, a breast pump or breast milk storage bags to the space.

4.    Make Her Nourishing Meals

Cooking for your partner is a practical way to care for her and your baby. Proper nutrition is essential for a breastfeeding mom, so be choosy about what you make. Prioritize ingredients like spinach which are rich in iron and folate and can help support the physical development of your infant.

5.    Help Take Care of Your Newborn

Offer to burp, change, dress and soothe your infant between feedings. Before bedtime, clean your baby’s gums and teeth to help prevent tooth decay and other dental health concerns. Doing these tasks gives your partner time to take care of herself.

6.    Let Her Sleep

Breastfeeding can occur as frequently as once per hour depending on the baby and even time of day. Therefore, your partner will naturally lack proper sleep. You can help her handle sleep deprivation by taking the baby between feedings so she gets adequate shuteye. Do your best to ensure she gets at least seven hours of sleep daily for her well-being.

7.    Manage Visitors at Home

It’s normal for family and friends to feel excited about your newborn’s arrival. As much as you want them to meet your little one, this can feel overwhelming for your partner who is still going through physical and emotional adjustments. Talk with your other half about a schedule that facilitates socializing and rest.

8.    Do Household Chores

Helping with household chores is one of the best things you can do to give your partner more time to recharge between feedings. Help prepare meals, do the laundry and clean the house. If your household includes other family members, you can also assign tasks to them to make housework more manageable.

You’re in This Together

Now that you know how to support your breastfeeding partner, it’s time to show up. Like all phases of parenthood, this journey is fleeting. Take the initiative when it comes to household chores and offer emotional and physical support. Together, you two can conquer the challenges and cherish the special moments of this exciting journey.