Many of you dads out there probably saw this title and wondered what the heck breastfeeding issues have to do with you. Well, I’m here to say, plenty. Your child will need to be fed, and quite often. If you and your partner have decided to breastfeed, then that’s great. If you decided not to and will be going the strictly formula route instead, that’s great too. I am not here to judge one way or the other. Both options are perfectly fine, and each provide great nutrition.

One question I have for you is: What will you do if your partner tries to breastfeed and is unable to because nothing is coming out? Before you answer, understand that this is a very real possibility. Some women are able to breastfeed immediately, and the milk just pours out. Other women have delayed lactation for several weeks. Some women only produce a small amount of milk and then supplement with formula until they are able to produce more. Unfortunately, some women are never able to produce the proper amount of milk for their baby, and others are unable to produce any milk at all.

What can you do to help? First of all, provide as much emotional support as you can. When a mother plans to breastfeed and can’t, for whatever reason, it can be heartbreaking. Therefore, always let your partner know that they are doing great and it’s not their fault if not producing enough milk. There is also much research you can do about increasing breast milk quantity, like taking various supplements, pumping, or massage. There are also lactation support groups out there, as well as lactation specialists. As well, have your partner reach out to other moms that she trusts. Basically, do whatever you can to help your partner improve her breast milk quantity and be there for her emotionally.

In the meantime, your baby still needs to eat. So, what do you do? The simplest thing is to buy formula to help supplement the breastfeeding. Whether your partner only makes a little breastmilk, or none at all, formula can provide the proper nutrition for the kiddo. If you and your partner are adamant about only breastfeeding, then there’s an option to purchase donor breastmilk from either a local hospital or milk bank. Be aware that donor breast milk is quite pricey. As your baby grows and takes in more ounces with each feeding, expect to pay several hundred dollars per week, if not more. To avoid breaking the bank, if you have a friend, or someone you trust, also nursing at the same time, you can ask if they have extra breast milk to spare. Whatever you feel comfortable with it, but that is an option. If the baby receives a small amount of breastmilk and then formula, they will receive the benefits of both.

Once again, the best thing you can do is be there for your partner and let them know they are no less of a mother because they can’t breastfeed like they want to. As long as you guys are doing your best to make sure your baby is well fed and taken care of, then you are doing a great job. You guys got this!

On a final note, if you happen to be in a position where your partner is producing an abundance of breast milk, then consider donating it. There are many parents out there who could use it for their babies, so contact a local milk bank or hospital so see how you can become a donor. Or reach out to a friend who may need it.