Importance of a support network during breastfeeding
Your pregnancy is a good time to talk about your impressions and expectations with your partner, family, and friends. It’s also a good time to find out about the breastfeeding resources and community groups in your area.
The role of the partner
As soon as your baby is born, you can find ways to support your partner with breastfeeding. Your presence means a lot, especially during the adaptation period.
As an expectant father or partner, you can play an active part in the discussions and decision on breastfeeding your child. Your role is important.
You can make a real difference by working hand-in-hand with the breastfeeding parent while a breastfeeding routine is being established.
At the beginning, you can help get the baby latched on to the breast by lending an extra hand to hold the baby, shifting a pillow, or sharing a word of encouragement. Little things like offering something to drink or making a snack are always appreciated.
You can also provide reassurance in moments of doubt, offer protection against pressure and comments from friends and family, or seek support if needed.
Helping care for your baby will also make breastfeeding easier and allow you to ease into your role as parent. You can work as a team, taking your turn to hold your baby skin to skin between feedings, especially after your partner’s milk has come in. You can change diapers, burp your baby, and rock your baby in your arms to soothe them or put them to sleep (see Becoming parents).
Support from family and friends
If you or your partner were breastfed, your families may be familiar with the practice. But you might also be the first in your family or your partner’s family to breastfeed. In this case, you may want to let them know what your intentions are. Knowing your plans can help them support you in your decision.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask them for a helping hand with things like meals, babysitting, errands, and housekeeping.
Breastfeeding resources
There are several types of resources that offer breastfeeding help and support. For more detailed information, see Getting help.
Breastfeeding resources
- Breastfeeding support groups and organizations
- Early childhood services at your CLSC
- Info-Santé: 24/7 telephone consultations at 8-1-1
- Certified lactation consultations (IBCLC) (private services)
- Breastfeeding clinics with medical specialists (available in some regions)
- Your prenatal care team
Here are some resources:
Association québécoise des consultantes en lactation diplômées de l’IBLCE
514-990-0262
ibclc.qc.ca/en
Centres de référence des grandes régions de Montréal et de Québec
2-1-1
211qc.ca/en
La Leche
1-866-255-2483
allaitement.ca (Quebec) (in French only)
lllc.ca (Canada)
Mouvement Allaitement du Québec
mouvementallaitement.org (in French only)
Nourri-Source
514-948-9877 / 1-866-948-5160
nourri-source.org/en
Réseau des centres de ressources périnatales du Québec
rcrpq.com/english-version
Breastfeeding a baby isn’t always easy, but once breastfeeding is established, it can be very rewarding and nourishing for you and your baby. Trust yourselves and enjoy the pleasures of parenthood—one day at a time.
Remember that everyone’s breastfeeding experience is a little different and that every baby is unique. If you or your friends have had difficult breastfeeding experiences in the past, that doesn’t mean you will have trouble this time.
It’s normal to need time to get used to breastfeeding. As you’re learning, you may have moments when you question your decision. It’s a good idea to know who to turn to for help and to have people around who can support you.