As we wrap up World Breastfeeding Week, I thought I’d leave you with some recommendations from the World Health Organization for how moms and those around them can support breastfeeding. These user-friendly posters are available for download on the WHO website, along with links to general breastfeeding information and statistics about breastfeeding around the world.
While I agree that these tips will help support new breastfeeding moms, I can’t help but think that at least some of these recommendations are things we should do to support new moms regardless of how they feed their children. After all, moms (and dads!) need help and support whether or not they breastfeed.
What Mums Can Do:
Before your baby arrives, get the facts on breastfeeding.
When your baby’s born, try to give the first breastfeed within the first hour.
You’ll need help with learning to breastfeed & so will your baby. Don’t be afraid to ask for it!
Make sure you get plenty of healthy food, water & rest.
What Dads Can Do:
Help around the house, reduce stress for your partner & make sure she gets enough rest.
‘Burp’ the baby after a feed – Dad’s chest is great for this!
Care for the baby in ways other than feeding (bath, diaper changes, walks).
What Families and Friends Can Do:
Provide emotional support & practical help (deliver groceries, cook meals, clean the house).
Take care of big brothers & sisters.
Listen & be supportive. Boost Mum’s confidence in breastfeeding.
What Can Be Done in the Workplace:
Give enough maternity leave for mums to get breastfeeding established.
Make it easier for mums to return to work by providing time & a place to breastfeed or express & store milk.
Support your colleagues while they’re breastfeeding – it’s not always easy to balance work & being a new mum!
Any other tips or suggestions to add? Please share in the comments!
I agree with ALL of the suggestions. I was so blessed to be around supportive people, especially my husband.
Yes, my husband was a huge support as well. It makes such a difference!
This is all such great advice! It’s simple advice, but so important because people really don’t realize how much goes into feeding a baby. It’s emotional and difficult and even painful at first, so support is everything!
I agree! Breastfeeding was a big adjustment for me, and having the support of my husband and family made a definite difference.
I heard of a woman who will always buy a bottle of water for any mom she sees nursing in public, and she will hand it to the mother and then say, “Thank you for nursing in public.” That’s a great way to support a nursing mom you don’t even know!
Great idea! I’m thirsty all the time now, and I know I’d appreciate such a nice gesture.
Hi Olivia. This is a great post. We are currently having a breastfeeding campaign worldwide. I am doing it with my organization. We are encouraging moms to share their stories about breastfeeding. Well, this isn’t a mere blog hop because this is an activity for the club. You can link up this story or other stories about breastfeeding here: http://www.pinkheartstring.com/2013/08/mothers-and-youth-unite-for-worldwide.html We would really appreciate it if you do. Hugs!
Thanks for the heads up, Kareen! I just checked it out and linked up. That’s a great awareness campaign!
Thanks for linking up Olivia. That would be a great help for the campaign! Hugs!