We have had an interesting discussion on Dad's role in the Spanish Lactnet
(Lacmat-l).  One of our own has created the 10 steps for breastfeeding support
by dad.  It was originally written in Portuguese and has had various
translations - transitions - from portuguese, to portuspan, to Spanish and I've
attempted to translate it to English hoping that not too much has been lost
through the translations.  I have permission from the author to publish it on
Lactnet, however any further use should be requested of the author - not of me.

Jeanette Panchula, BA-SW, LLLL, IBCLC, RN
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 10 Steps to Effective Breastfeeding Support by Dad

1- Support  and encourage your wife to breastfeed
        At times she may feel insecure in her ability to breastfeed.  Your
support at this time will be essential.

2- Share your wife's breasts with the baby.
        Although this may be difficult to accept, remember that the breastfeeding
period is a passing phase.  Give your child priority.

3.  Whenever possible participate in the breastfeeding process.
        Your presence, touch and caresses during breastfeeding are ways in which
to create and maintain a bond among mother + child + father.

4-Be patient and understanding
        During breastfeeding it will probably not be possible for your wife to
maintain a spotless house and to prepare perfect meals.  The baby's needs come
first during this stage of your life as a couple.

5-Make yourself useful during the breastfeeding times
        Help with the household chores and whenever possible change diapers, help
with baby's bath and dressing, etc.

6-Remain calm
        Even though breastfeeding brings much joy, it  may also create many
difficulties and exhaustion.  At times your wife will be impatient.  Be loving
and understanding at that moment.  Avoid unnecessary disagreements which may
interfere with mother's let-down.

7-Help with the other children (if you have them)
        Your goal is to help with the other children so they feel less left out
with the arrival of the new sibling.  This will allow your wife  time with the
baby.

8-Continue to stroke and caress your wife's breasts
        If this has been part of your interaction with your wife, breasts are not
off limits to husbands just because she is breastfeeding.  Studies have shown
that husband's caresses can help to make the breasts more responsive to the
rhythmic stimulation of the baby.

9-Be sensitive to the variations in your wife's sexual appetite during
breastfeeding.
        Some want more, others want less; both reactions are normal.  This is an
opportunity for  exploring new ways of meeting each other's needs, and of being
flexible with each other.

10-Never bring home bottles, pacifiers or formula
        Success at this time depends very much on your attitude.  Exclusive
breastfeeding for six months and your love and support are all that your baby
needs to be healthy and grow to his highest potential.


* Marcus Renato de Carvalho
CIAM RJ - IBFAN Rio - Dep. de Pediatria/Faculdade de Medicina UFRJ
Rua Visconde de Piraja, 414, 1019
22410 002 Rio de Janeiro - RJ    Brasil
Tel.: 021 522 8897     Fax: 021 267 6391
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http://www.apc.org.br/~ibfanrio/index.html