The Importance of the Father’s Role in Breastfeeding
Without sperm, we wouldn’t be able to conceive. And we couldn’t do it without an egg either. So, in a way—and perhaps unconsciously—we practice a kind of co-parenting even before our babies are born.
A few days ago, we had a conversation with Dr. Celia Pérez Serralvo, a pediatrician and mom of three, through our Instagram profile, @bold.womban. We talked about the father’s role and why his active participation in motherhood and breastfeeding is so important. Dr. Pérez Serralvo shared her knowledge with us about how a father can actively participate when a woman gives birth.
We women have access to more and more useful information to help us navigate motherhood. From prenatal classes to advice on which foods to avoid during pregnancy or techniques for successful breastfeeding. However, even though fathers are an essential part of the process, men are often left out of many aspects of motherhood and, as a result, fatherhood tends to receive far less attention.
For Dr. Pérez Serralvo, an informed and well-prepared father is an essential asset throughout the journey of motherhood. That is why she wrote Paternal Breastfeeding, a book that puts fathers front and center and serves as a guide to help them understand their value as fathers, offering practical advice that benefits the whole family, especially during the baby’s first days of life.
Breastfeeding Positions: Supporting Mom and Baby
Knowing different breastfeeding positions can be a blessing for both mother and baby. And let’s not forget how important a father’s involvement can be during weaning. Did you know that having the father give the baby a bottle during the night can be more beneficial? It’s true! Babies often prefer their mother’s breast because her scent is comforting, but bottle-feeding can sometimes be easier when the father is the one doing it.
The “Host Dad” Does Exist!
The host dad exists! There’s surely a father out there who takes charge of managing visits from all those eager to meet the new baby. If you don’t have a host dad at home, then Dr. Pérez Serralvo’s book is for you.
Fathers can be the perfect hosts. Besides managing visitors, they can also help with meal planning while the mother focuses on the baby. And let’s be honest: during the first few days after giving birth, the mother needs to focus primarily on the baby and on recovering herself. That’s why it’s so important for the father—or partner—to be that pillar of support and take care of everything else.
The concept of paternal breastfeeding not only gives women a well-deserved break, but also strengthens the bond between father and child and encourages shared parenting. So, dads, don’t underestimate your role in this incredible adventure! Whether you’re learning new breastfeeding positions or preparing a delicious dinner for the family, every little contribution matters.
Happy Father’s Day to All the Brave Dads!
So, happy Father’s Day to all the brave dads out there: you’re more important than you think! Your active participation in breastfeeding and parenting not only benefits mom and baby, but also makes you a hero in the life of your family.