A thread written for DH/DPs to read, so that they can support their breastfeeding DW

[HeinzSight]

I'm having baby number 4 in a few weeks and am determined (again) to make a go of breastfeeding, I couldn't quite manage it with the last three, various problems, the main being post natal depression. DH has always been happy to support me with whatever my decision has been.

I've done lots of research and started many threads on this topic and have realised what a big role DH can play in giving you the determination to continue BF.

The reason I've started this thread is so that men can read it and have more of an insight into their role where breastfeeding is concerned and what a woman needs from him to enable her to stick with it. I'm going to ask my DH to read this when it's full enough

I am usually the one doing the mooing whilst pumping these days... DH just joins in!

Appreciate that must have hurt whilst your DC was in SCBU

My suggestions for DPs:

Find out yourself how BF 'works'. Learn up about key things that need to happen and a bit about what can go wrong. So you're not panicking too much and feeding her own worry when she feels uncertain in the middle of the night.

And, ahem, DON'T panic. Even though you will . If she is struggling, put your arm round her and tell her how wonderful she is. You know, that little 'fillip' of my DH whispering tenderly in my ear when I was weeping in pain was often the difference between tense struggle and a let-down reflex.

And when we got into nursing strikes later on (which are pretty uncommon BTW) that really helped a LOT.

Have a few practical last-resort suggestions that are NOT formula (hand-expressing and cup or syringe feeding might be one if REALLY desperate in the middle of the night)

But do seek help from others, as everyone said, especially if she is too proud/stubborn [been there emoticon]

Have a few brilliant lines to let her know how proud you are when naysayers stick their oars in.

She is working hard enough feeding through the night. Do NOT assume because she's awake anyway it is her job to do the inevitable nappy too

Become very familiar with Lansinoh on the baby products shelf, just in case.

Wednesday bump, and suwoo, I think I've found you on fb, have messaged you. But will try my email again.

Not had a message. My pic is my bump with DS underneath it. 1st name Suzanne

Found you, found yoooou!

Yep thats me! Accepted you