Breastfeeding? But I'm a Man! As a dad or a dad to be you might not feel that you have much to do with breastfeeding, but you have an important role to play. This page talks a bit about what you can do to help if your partner and you decide to breastfeed your baby. Best for baby Breastfeeding is the best start you can give your baby. It is the best food your baby can get and breastfed babies are less likely to have; • Infections such as an ear and chest infections • Serious tummy problems e.g. gastroenteritis • Diabetes • Allergies • Eczema • Asthma They are less likely to be obese and are likely to be healthier as adults than babies that are formula fed. Breastfeeding may also help protect against cot death. Best for mum Breastfeeding is also great for mum. Breastfeeding; • Reduces the risk of cancers like breast cancer and ovarian cancer • Helps mum get her figure back • Improves mum and baby bonding • Improves bone health in later life Other bonuses Breastfeeding is not just a healthier option for mum and baby. It is also handier as; • It’s always available • No need to mix • No need to heat • No need to sterilise • Less to carry when you go out • It’s free • Better for the environment (no waste) But won’t I feel left out? There is no reason why you should feel left out if your partner breastfeeds. Just think of all the other fun things you could do with your baby, such as; • Having a bath • Cuddling • Playing • Talking • Introducing your baby to the world! What will others think? Some men worry about other people seeing their partners breasts, either at home or in public. It is possible to breastfeed without other being able to see your partners breast, and with the right sort of clothes people may not even notice she is breastfeeding. Many places have quiet areas for breastfeeding if your partner would rather not breastfeed in public. You can play your part by sticking up for your partner and supporting her wish to breastfeed. Other people may mean well when giving advice, but sometimes too much advice can be confusing. You can help your partner by working together as a team and learning what you can about breastfeeding from experts and those that have done it. What about my sex life? It is possible that having a baby will affect your sex life, as you will both have a bit less time together. But supporting your partner if she wants to breastfeed is a romantic thing to do. Her breasts may be a bit tender so remember to be gentle. Leaking breast milk might be a turn-off or you may not mind. Try feeding and settling the baby before sex as this may help reduce leaks. Some women may get a bit dry when breastfeeding but a lubricating gel can help with this. Working as a team and supporting each other will mean you both have more energy for sex. There is no evidence that breastfeeding changes the shape of a woman’s breasts in the long term. Other ways you can help • Boost your partner’s confidence by encouraging her • You can help mum eat a healthy diet by doing some (or all the!) cooking • Breastfed is more frequently but you can help out with shopping and cleaning • Be supportive. Listen and talk honestly about how you feel If you have problems Some women may need support with breastfeeding. Encourage her to ask for help. Offer encouragement if she is thinking about giving up breastfeeding, but respect her decision if she decides to stop. Want to find out more? There are many places where you can find out more about breastfeeding. Your midwife, health visitor or GP will be able to help.