Paternal Bonding

Even though dads can't participate when moms are breastfeeding, there are many other ways for new fathers to bond with newborns.

Here are some suggestions, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

*Dad should be present through labor and delivery to share the baby's first moments.
*Dad can help with bottle feedings, and can still be present during breast feedings.
*Dad can read and sing to the baby, and give her a bath.
*Dad can make the same coos and noises that she makes as she begins to try to communicate.
*Dad can carry the newborn using a baby carrier that rests across the chest.
*Dad can let the baby feel and grab his face and hair, helping her get to know him.

If You Decide to Breast-Feed

If you choose to breast-feed your newborn, here are tips from the University of California, San Francisco, on what to do:

Try to breast-feed as soon as possible after your baby is born. In the beginning, your baby may need to be fed every two to four hours.

Let your baby feed off of both breasts, and alternate which side she feeds on first.
Burp your baby when you switch her to the other breast, and at the end of feeding.

Continue taking your prenatal vitamins. Also, talk to your doctor about whether you should continue to take prescription and over-the-counter medications. Finally, don't diet while you are breast-feeding.