Breastfeeding is an incredibly intimate activity shared by a mother and their child. And while you should reserve most of your supply for your baby, don’t forget about your partner. There are many benefits to breastfeeding your partner or spouse, and contrary to popular belief, it’s actually pretty normal.
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Increasing intimacy
Having a baby changes a lot of things in a relationship. Your partner suddenly loses access to parts of your body that they are intensely attracted to, including your breasts. Instead of losing thatsexual connection, you can heighten it through breastfeeding. This can be a pleasurable experience for both you and your partner. The area around the nipple is usually sensitive when you are breastfeeding so the touch of your partner can be extremely exciting.
Similar to how breastfeeding strengthens the bond between a baby and their mother, the same goes for breastfeeding your partner as well. Doing this activity will bring you closer together and it won’t make your partner feel left out of the new family dynamic.
Practical benefits
Breastfeeding your partner doesn’t only improve your relationship, it also has practical benefits as well. For instance, if your baby prefers only one side of your chest, then your breasts will begin to get uneven. Your partner can help you balance it out by breastfeeding on the side that is getting neglected.
You can also boost your milk supply with the help of your partner. By sucking on your breasts, they can remove leftover milk and stimulate the area—which will increase your supply. Additionally, draining your breasts effectively prevents plugged milk ducts and blocked nipple pores.
When to avoid breastfeeding
Now that you know why you should consider breastfeeding your partner, you should also know when to avoid it.
Breastfeeding a grown-up is not everyone’s cup of tea, so if you are feeling emotionally uncomfortable then voice your concerns to your partner. You should also stop breastfeeding if you feel any kind of physical pain and discomfort.
Avoid this activity if you or your partner have any sort of infectious disease or virus.
Finally, if you are pregnant and you are considered high-risk, do not breastfeed your partner at all costs. Any kind of breast or nipple stimulation will trigger contractions, and might result in early labour.
