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Photograph courtesy of www.randallphotography.co.uk |
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When
it comes to breastfeeding, many people
assume that Dad plays no role or has little
influence on feeding. However, while Dad
may not actually be feeding the baby, particularly
if Mum is feeding exclusively from the
breast, there are many things that he can
do to build his own relationship with his
baby. Here are some suggestions:
For further information
on Dads and Breastfeeding click here |
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The
only thing that Dads can't do is breastfeed
! Dads
can change nappies, soothe a crying baby,
cuddle and hold the baby, and play – which
can be very rewarding for the baby, exciting
for Dad and a great help to Mum. |
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The
best way to keep your baby happy is to
keep your partner happy. Help
to clean up or take over other chores around
the house so that Mum can concentrate on
breastfeeding and the baby. Try
to keep your relationship with your partner
well balanced, too, as the birth of a baby
can be overwhelming to many couples. |
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If
you already have other children, a new
baby can cause even more impact. If
you can, take a short break so that you
can help with older children during the
first few weeks. Go
to the playground, or organise other outside
activities so that your partner can rest. |
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Get
up with your baby when you can, and bring
your baby to Mum in the middle of the night
for feeds whenever possible, so that everyone
contributes. |
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After
your baby has been fed, offer to rock,
burp or sing the baby back to sleep. |
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Guard
your partner against well-meaning but intrusive
visitors who come bearing advice. Friends and relatives can suddenly become experts on parenting
and breastfeeding when a new baby arrives. Protect her from those well-meant, but sometimes hurtful (and
possibly harmful) 'words of wisdom'. |
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It
is important to spend time together with
your new baby, as well as alone as a couple
when the baby is sleeping. |
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Take
a walk with your baby and suggest that
your partner relax, take a nap or a soothing
bath while you are out. |
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Keep
an eye on Mum for signs of postpartum depression.Many
new mothers experience the 'baby blues',
often caused by fatigue and hormonal changes,
but this quickly passes. However,
if you notice your partner is feeling sad,
depressed or crying a lot, talk to her
about it and, if it persists beyond two
weeks, seek the advice of a health professional. |
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When
a new baby joins the family, whether
it is your first or a subsequent baby,
things are always going to be a little
strange at first. Give
yourself a break if you need it and make
sure to talk things over with your partner.
There is no need at all to feel left
out of the bonding process that is going
on with Mum and baby, when there are
so many ways that you can join in, too. |
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