Breastfeeding With Dad

For this post I'm putting on my LC hat.  For many years I worked as a lactation consultant, doula and childbirth educator. 

Breastfeeding often has one complaint: that it doesn't include Dad.  Well that depends on how you do it.  Cuddle up together while breastfeeding.  Its good physical and emotional support for mom.  Dad can partake in the bonding.  Mom doesn't feel in it alone.  Dad really experiences the time put into breastfeeding and so understands some of what Mom did all day while he was at work.    There are many benefits here.  In our house dad plays with monkey during more awake nursings and the time can be playful or cozy.  If baby is cluster feeding settle in to bed with a DVD as a family.