Maybe. You can help prevent jealousy by preparing your partner before birth and making sure he or she gets involved once you start breastfeeding.
Before birth:
- Explain that you need his or her support. After your child is born, the best way for a partner to support your breastfeeding efforts is by being there for you.
- Discuss the important and lasting health reasons to breastfeed. Buy him or her a book or print out some information. Having a partner or spouse who understands the benefits of breastfeeding can make all the difference.
- Remind your partner that the baby will need to be fed somehow. Any method will take time, but, once breastfeeding is going smoothly, it is convenient and comfortable. Be sure to emphasize that not breastfeeding can cost you money.
- Encourage your partner to join you for a birthing, breastfeeding, and/or new parenting class. Classes are available through the hospital, the U.S. Department of Agriculture\’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, or other organizations.
After birth, get your partner involved by encouraging him or her to:
- Bring your baby to you at night for a feeding
- Change your baby\’s diaper after a feeding
- Lie skin-to-skin with the baby