Isn’t bottle feeding just as good as breastfeeding? I bottle fed my children and they turned out okay. Is he getting enough? Maybe you should give her a bottle?

These are some comments heard by breastfeeding mothers from an older generation that was not always encouraged to breastfeed.

Grandparents Opinions Count

Grandparents have a wealth of experience and often have a significant influence on the choices their children make. Their enthusiasm and encouragement about breastfeeding can be of great support. It can make the difference between a mother breastfeeding her child for just a few months or continuing for over a year or more. Studies have shown that the advice of health care workers is far less likely to be followed than grandmother’s advice.

What are the Facts?

While babies can survive and thrive on artificial milk (formula), human milk is specially designed for human babies and has many advantages. Breastmilk is always available in just the right amount and at just the right temperature and is easier for baby to digest. Breastfed babies have fewer colds and infections, fewer allergies, upset tummies and have a reduced chance of obesity and sudden infant death syndrome. Breastmilk is convenient and cheap and is the only food a baby needs for the first six months of life.

What can you do?

New research has shown that the feeding experiences of grandmothers can have an effect on how their grandchildren are fed. Having the support of your parents when you are breastfeeding is vital. Grandparents can help their daughter or daughter-in-law by being positive and encouraging. Breastfeeding is a skill that needs to be learned by mother and baby and may take several weeks.

There are lots of things besides feeding that you can do for your new grandchild. He will need lots of cuddling, touching and rocking. You can read him stories, talk and sing to him. You can change her, bathe her and be warm, loving and responsive when she needs comfort.

Get the brochure!

Our grandparent pamphlet provides the latest information about breastfeeding so as a new or seasoned grandparent, you can help to support your daughter or daughter-in-law in her choice to breastfeed her baby. Download our Grandparent Pamphlet for more information on how grandparents can help support the breastfeeding relationship. You’ll see just how essential your support and encouragement can be.