IN ALL of the scientific literature about breastfeeding, there are remarkably few studies exploring the influence of fathers on the process. A few years ago, Dr. Pamela Jordan, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Nursing explored the issue and found that support from the father appeared to have a great influence on the duration of breastfeeding.
She also found that men's support for breastfeeding was high during pregnancy but declined after the baby was born. Some of the men in the study expressed negative feelings that they linked to breastfeeding, which could be placed into three categories:
fathers felt deprived of a relationship with the baby
fathers felt a lack of closeness with the mother, envious of her bond with the babyfathers were concerned that they couldn't soothe the baby when it was upset, while all the mother had to do was to feed it.It was later concluded that men were key to their spouse's decision to breastfeed, and that men needed to be involved in the decision-making process from the earliest stages of the child's development.
While no large-scale study of a similar nature has been done in Jamaica, observations, coupled with anecdotal evidence, suggest that men do have a strong influence on the mother's decision to initiate and continue breastfeeding.
The following questions and answers directed to fathers, will serve to highlight the important role fathers play in giving their child the best possible start through breastfeeding.
1. Do you know that your breastfeeding wife needs a lot of rest?
An exhausted woman has trouble producing enough milk. See what you can do to lessen your wife's burdens so that she can have enough rest for example, help with the work around the house and so on.
2. Do you know that your wife needs more to eat during pregnancy and during the time of breastfeeding ?
Be sure to bring home foods rich in protein such as peas and beans, eggs and milk. She needs extra protective foods such as fruits and vegetables. Enough food for the mother means enough breastmilk for the baby. And buying extra food for the mother is cheaper than buying tinned milk for the baby! She should also have plenty to drink, as this will make her milk flow much better.
3. Do you know that when your wife is relaxed and happy, her milk flows better ?
Try to keep her as happy as possible. Avoid quarrels. Listen if she talks about her worries and try to help solve any problems. Be at home as often as possible.
4. Do you know that your wife needs your encouragement in breastfeeding?
If she thinks you don't care, she may not be enthusiastic about the whole idea. Tell her and tell your relatives and friends that you are proud that your baby is being breastfed. Remind them why 'breastmilk is the best milk'. It is free from germs and protects baby against illnesses; baby will be healthier on breastmilk (not much diarrhoea or colds); it has the correct temperature and is always ready; it is inexpensive; baby is happier, closer to mother, nights are quieter, and parents sleep better; it has the right amount of nutrients for the growing infant.
- Stephen Robinson, nutritionist.
