When we talk about caring for our baby, one of the first things that comes to mind is feeding them. Are we going to breastfeed? When and how to breastfeed? At what age will our little one stop breastfeeding? When can new foods be introduced?
Well, there are a lot of questions that it's normal for parents to have when they're faced with the different types of care they need to give their little one. In addition, if we add other equally important concerns, such as the decision whether or not to breastfeed, the possibility of doing so, what kind of role the father will have at a time that is so exclusive between mum and baby and what the reactions of the little one will be, as well as those of the parents.
We believe that there is an attempt here to balance these factors with others. As individuals, we have our routines and habits that are pretty well defined. When we come across something new that is going to break a little with what would be the most logical thing to happen, we have this feeling of trying to understand how we can introduce these new practices into our daily lives, as well as feeling useful in what we are doing.
While we're on the subject of these crucial issues for both the baby and the parents, we'd like to touch on something else - the role that fathers can play during the breastfeeding period.
Here on the blog, we've already talked a little about breastfeeding, its importance and certain characteristics that make this process different from mum to mum. We think it's just as important to understand how the father might feel and what role he can play from the moment the mother decides she wants to breastfeed.
We went to do our usual research and, of course, we want to share with you what we found and our point of view.
We all think it's one of the most natural and beautiful things to see a mum feeding her baby, and to have that exclusive bonding moment. However, it can be a time when the father feels left out and doesn't know what to do, and there is a desire to participate and ensure that the mother doesn't feel alone.
In the first instance, this need to collaborate together begins when the decision to breastfeed is made. We know that this is something that concerns the mother. However, if this decision is shared and discussed, it will give meaning to the father's role and he will naturally feel more involved in the process. Although it's a moment that will be exclusive to the baby and the mother, there will always be a feeling of being apart, but making this decision together is already a first step.
Another aspect pointed out in our research is the issue of jealousy on the part of the father. It may not be easy at first, because we're talking about the condition that the mother will have for the baby, as is the case with the breast, which will have the function of breastfeeding. As a result, she will feel sensitive and will need a lot of care. However, it will be an initial phase, as the father will make the effort to feel integrated into the breastfeeding moment and it will certainly end up being a beautiful family moment.
As soon as the mother decides to breastfeed, the father can play a reassuring and trusting role. It's a way of not feeling left out. A good example would be to help create a relaxed atmosphere and make the mother feel comfortable. Looking for something that the mother needs or just being by her side are other fundamental types of help. It's safe to say that the father already feels in the moment.
In addition, we know that breastfeeding can have its setbacks (e.g. cracked nipples or long feeds). It's natural for mums to put some pressure on themselves and feel that the moment depends largely on them. However, the father can play the role of reassurer and try to motivate the mother, putting things into perspective and giving her more self-confidence.
A final point that we considered important and that was highlighted in the information we gathered was the phase in which the baby starts to stop breastfeeding and the transition to a more diverse diet begins. At this point, the mother may feel that she is no longer as close to the baby, and it is a phase that should be passed calmly, realising that it is perfectly normal. The baby will be 7 months old and it may take time to change things up. By then, the father will be playing a fundamental role and will be a little more active, being able to give the little one a bottle. There's a bit of fear about having this responsibility now, but it's something that over time and with practice he'll get the hang of, and mum will be reassured by such a sweet moment.
With the information we receive today, breastfeeding is something that is largely a result of the mother's role, but it goes beyond that. The father can play an important role here - constant support at all times, whether on an emotional level or in carrying out anything the mother needs. It's truly inspiring to see such a unique moment between mum and baby, but adding the father's concern and collaboration to the whole process makes it even more special. Special in that he can facilitate it and make it as easy as possible.
After all, breastfeeding is a unique process that will vary from mum to mum, from baby to baby and, today, we think it may vary a little from dad to dad.
What about you? How did this breastfeeding process go? Fathers out there, how did you feel during breastfeeding? Any aspects you'd like to share with us? Mums, how did the dads behave and how did you feel? We want to know your experience. We want to know your opinion.
