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The Baby Element Clinic

The Dad Guide to Infant Feeding

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Dads matter too

Breast Feeding challenges

Dads aren’t just bystanders. You’re invested in your child’s well-being and your partner’s support needs. Here are some reasons you might find yourself looking for feeding support:

  • Partner’s Wellbeing: You see your partner struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing pain. You want to ease their worries and ensure they’re getting the help they need.
  • Baby’s Wellbeing: You notice your baby isn’t gaining weight as expected, is constantly fussy, or seems uncomfortable after feeds. You want to be proactive in addressing these concerns.
  • Information and Empowerment: You want to understand the feeding process better. Knowledge is power, and you want to be equipped to offer informed support.
  • Practical Assistance: You want to learn practical tips for bottle-feeding, expressing milk, or helping with positioning during breastfeeding to reduce pain or discomfort.
  • Emotional Support: You want to provide emotional support to your partner, and sometimes that includes helping her find professionals who can support her.
  • Advocacy: Sometimes your partner may be too tired or emotionally drained to seek help; that is when you can step in and advocate for your family.
Dads matter too

What is a feeding issue?

You might be asking “Why is my baby waking every hour?” or “What is a sleep regression?”

Understanding these issues can relate to feeding may help you identify when support is needed:

  • Latch Issues (Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding): Difficulty latching onto the breast properly can lead to pain for the mother and inadequate milk intake for the baby.
  • Low Milk Supply: Concerns about whether the baby is getting enough milk are common, and sometimes, there’s a genuine need for support to increase milk production.
  • Colic: Excessive crying and fussiness, often after feeding, can be distressing for both parents and baby.
  • Reflux: Spitting up or vomiting after feeds is common, but frequent or forceful reflux can cause discomfort and require intervention.
  • Gas and Wind: Babies can struggle with trapped gas, leading to discomfort and fussiness.
  • Tongue-Tie or Oral Function issues: These conditions can restrict the baby’s tongue movement, impacting latch and feeding efficiency, excess air intake, dribbling and weight gain issues.
  • Allergies or Intolerances: Some babies may react to certain foods in the mother’s diet (if breastfeeding) or to specific ingredients in infant formulas.
  • Bottle-Feeding Issues: Problems with nipple flow, air intake, or transitioning between breast and bottle can arise. Bottle aversion or bottle refusal can be challenging too.
  • Weight Gain Concerns: Slow or inadequate weight gain can indicate a feeding issue that needs addressing.
  • Baby Sleep Issues: Sleep issues in young babies is often related to feeding, finding support early is key to a resolution.
Dads matter too

A Dad's role is important

What can new Dads do to help an unsettled baby?

Remember, your support as a parent is crucial. You can:

  • Create a calm and comfortable feeding environment.
  • Bring your partner water, snacks, or anything else they need.
  • Take care of other household tasks.
  • Offer emotional support and encouragement.
  • Help with burping and settling the baby after feeds.
  • Act as a gatekeeper, and limit the amount of visitors, so your partner can focus on feeding.

By being informed and proactive, you can play a significant role in ensuring your baby’s feeding success and your partner’s wellbeing. 

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Dads matter too

How Dads can access feeding support

  • Talk to Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider: Your baby’s doctor, midwife, or health visitor is a valuable resource. Don’t hesitate to attend appointments and ask questions.
  • Lactation Consultants: These experts can provide personalised guidance on breastfeeding techniques, latch issues, and milk supply. Look for certified lactation consultants for qualified support for challenges with breast or bottle feeding issues (IBCLCs).
  • Local Support Groups: Many communities offer breastfeeding or new parent support groups where you can connect with other dads and families.
  • Online Resources: Reliable websites like the La Leche League, Association of Breastfeeding Mothers, KellyMom, and the NHS website offer helpful information and advice for the whole family.
  • Bottle-Feeding Support: If you’re expressing breastmilk to feed using a bottle, or formula-feeding, your healthcare provider  or Lactation Consultant can offer guidance on addressing any feeding challenges.
  • Your Own Networks: Talk to other dads who have been through this stage. They may have valuable insight and experiences to share.
  • National Helplines: National breastfeeding helplines that can provide instant support and advice.
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