How a partner can support a nursing parent
If a birth parent is nursing their baby, a partner can often feel like there is little they can do. But body feeding a baby is physically and mentally draining, and the birth parent needs a lot of extra support (and water!) This article breaks down all the ways a partner can support a nursing parent.
Did you know that mature milk is 90% water? That means a birth parent needs to be constantly drinking water to be able to make more milk. A supporting partner or parent can make sure there is always a full cup or bottle of water nearby. They can also nourish your partner. Fill a basket with snacks to have nearby, and bring healthy food.
Another way a supporting parent can help is by keeping bottles and pump parts clean. If a parent is pumping, bring clean pump parts and manage the bottles and milk in the fridge.
To heal from pregnancy and birth, the birth parent must rest. One way I advise my clients to make sure they’re able to rest is to have the supporting parent move their baby to another room to give the birth parent uninterrupted time to rest. This might work best in the early morning or late evening.
Another way to help birth parents is to handle other baby care, especially during late night feedings. Do diaper changes. Fold baby laundry. Anything that allows the birth parent to relax and bond with their baby.
Lastly, listen. Don’t give them advice, just listen. And ask them how they want to be supported. Be there for them, telling them that they’re doing an amazing job.
Struggling to nurse? Get my body feeding guide here! Want to learn more ways to prepare for birth and postpartum? Book a Prenatal Meeting with me now.
Hi! I'm Gigi; I'm a postpartum doula, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I’m a #swiftie who loves cheesy novels.
As a former teacher, I bring realistic, evidence-based, and actionable advice (and LOTS of handouts.) I help families get the tools they need to prepare, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. I’m here to streamline the newborn learning curve and help birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn’t ONE way to have and raise a little human. I’m here to guide parents to find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond.
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