How Grandparents Can Support Breastfeeding for New Moms

Selin Tamer
Sep 15
2 min read

Grandmother helping new mom—how grandparents support breastfeeding — How Grandparents Can Support Breastfeeding For New Moms

Becoming parents is a big change, and grandparents often want to help. Research shows the grandparents support breastfeeding in powerful ways. When grandparents give encouragement and hands-on help, moms are more likely to start and continue breastfeeding successfully.

Grandparents don’t feed the baby themselves, but their presence, guidance, and understanding can make breastfeeding less stressful for new parents.

Why Grandparents Support Breastfeeding Matters

Emotional encouragement: A kind word or listening ear reassures a new mom when breastfeeding feels challenging.
Positive influence: Sharing supportive stories and avoiding old myths helps parents feel confident.
Practical help: Preparing meals, doing laundry, or caring for older siblings frees mom to focus on nursing and recovery.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that strong family support—including grandparents—improves breastfeeding rates.

How Grandparents Can Support Breastfeeding

Respect parents’ choices: Support the feeding plan without pressure or criticism.
Offer reassurance: Remind parents that early struggles are normal and usually temporary.
Help with daily tasks: Handle cooking, cleaning, or errands so parents can rest and focus on the baby.
Bond with baby: Hold or soothe the baby between feeds, giving mom time to recover.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that when the whole family helps, parents are more likely to meet breastfeeding goals.

Stay Updated on Breastfeeding Guidelines

Breastfeeding recommendations have changed over the years. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Grandparents can help by learning today’s best practices and supporting the parents’ plan.