Lactation: How to Support a Lactating Parent

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Making and feeding human milk is an extremely important job; it takes lots of time and emotional energy and can be hard at times. Having the support of a partner, family member or friend can help make learning how to breastfeed/chestfeed a little easier. Here are some ideas to support a lactating parent.

Watch the baby for early feeding cues

Watch the baby for early feeding cues (sucking their fists, licking lips, wiggling around).

Get the baby ready for feeding

Help get the baby ready for feeding: change their diaper, talk gently to the baby, pick the baby up and bring the baby to the lactating parent.
If the baby is fussy just before feeding, try to calm the baby first by holding and gently swaying, rocking, or bouncing.

Help the feeding parent get comfortable

Place a pillow under the baby and place the baby on the correct side for feeding. Help everyone get into a comfortable position.
Bring and help feed snacks, water, juice or a smoothie to the lactating parent. Making milk takes a lot of energy and fluids.

Help keep the baby awake

Help keep the baby awake and alert and sucking – tickle the baby’s toes or gently rub their torso.

Burp the baby after feeding

When the baby is done feeding on the first side, help bring the baby into a burping position (or you burp the baby), then help get the baby into position for the second side.
When the baby is done feeding, offer to hold the baby.

Take on tasks

Take care of tasks, order or get food, help with other children and guests.
Suggest sleep after nursing or whenever the baby sleeps.

Encourage

Learning to feed a baby takes time and practice to learn. It gets easier over time. Be there to listen and encourage.

To Learn More

Free Interpreter Services

In the hospital, ask your nurse.
From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.

Seattle Children’s offers free interpreter services for patients, family members and legal representatives who are deaf or hard of hearing or speak a language other than English. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your healthcare provider.

04/01/2024

PE2952