Breastfeeding takes the whole family

Author: Zhou Ying, Peking Union Medical College Hospital

Reviewer: Feng Shuju, deputy chief nurse of Peking Union Medical College Hospital

Many people know that breastfeeding has many benefits for babies and mothers, but in fact, it is beneficial to the whole family. Breastfeeding can enhance the relationship between relatives and promote family harmony. The International Alliance for Breastfeeding Action WABA proposed the Warm Chain, advocating that from pregnancy to the child's first 2 years old, all roles in society should promote, protect and support breastfeeding from different angles and at different times. Breastfeeding is not just the mother's business. Family members are always the closest to the mother and baby. Therefore, supporting breastfeeding requires the mobilization of the whole family. How can we do it?

Mother

First of all, mothers should learn breastfeeding knowledge and skills during pregnancy to enhance their confidence and firm their faith. They should start lactation scientifically, ensure sufficient milk production, and breastfeed smoothly.

Figure 1 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

dad

Dads play a very important role in supporting breastfeeding and must take responsibility for the overall situation.

First of all, the father should give the mother more care and provide positive emotional value. When the mother is in a good mood, it can promote milk secretion! For example, the father can say some encouraging words to the mother, "You are such a great mother" and "Thank you for your efforts", etc. In addition, the father can help the mother share some logistical work, such as cleaning and disinfecting the milk bottles.

Secondly, dads need to learn how to take care of their babies. After mom finishes feeding, dads can meet other needs of the baby and interact with the baby, such as changing diapers, bathing, comforting, etc. (especially at night, when moms frequently breastfeed and do not get enough rest, which will affect milk production), and at the same time enhance the relationship between father and son.

If there is an older child in the family, the father should take on the responsibility of taking care of the older child, eating, playing and reading with him.

Figure 2 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

Grandpa, grandma, grandma and grandpa

It is necessary to establish correct breastfeeding concepts, guide mothers to firmly believe in breastfeeding, and avoid saying negative things such as "the amount of milk is so little, the child can't be full."

At the same time, you can take care of the mother's diet, balance nutrition, match meat and vegetables, and avoid too much greasy soup. During breastfeeding, the mother may feel thirsty or hungry, so you can prepare some snacks and water.

Brother, sister

The older child at home can also help the mother! When the mother is feeding the younger child, handing the mother a cushion or blanket can make breastfeeding more comfortable and increase the mother's happiness.

Figure 3 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

Family Support Summary

1. Family members should establish correct concepts about breastfeeding.

2. Create a relaxed and pleasant family atmosphere.

3. Let the mother get enough sleep and rest.

4. Provide mothers with adequate and rich nutrition.

5. Ensure that the mother receives effective help, such as assistance in taking care of the baby; seeking help from professionals when encountering problems, etc.

Kind tips

At present, the social support system for breastfeeding is constantly being improved. Many public places, such as hospitals, shopping malls, airports, etc., have breastfeeding rooms. When mothers need to breastfeed while going out, they can seek guidance and help from relevant staff.

If mothers encounter difficulties during breastfeeding, they should not believe in rumors or folk remedies, but seek help from professionals, such as lactation consultants, breastfeeding instructors who have received relevant training, etc. In addition, some hospitals have also opened online consultation clinics.