Should The Father Have A Say In Whether Or Not The Mother Breast Feeds?

Question

Yes I asked it... Answer or go away... And... Happy Father's Day!!!

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

I'm up and down about this topic. I have 3 children. I breastfed my first born and my boyfriend, who was originally okay with it, told me it was disgusting and then gave me an ultimatum. Either I stop breastfeeding or he would leave me. I was young and stupid and stopped nursing my son. When I had my daughter he told me that under no circumstance was I nursing because he wanted to have a bond with his daughter and was convinced that they only way to achieve that was by feeding her. At this point I was terrified of him due to abuse and I was afraid of his family too so I let them make the decisions even though we were so broke due to his faming and smoking habits that we were constantly having to borrow money for formula. However, flash forward to our 3rd child.. he tried telling me again that I was not to be breastfeeding and that he would kick me to the curb if I even attempted it. I already hated him at this point due to years of abuse so I looked at him and said "Well looks like it's settled then" and started packing my shit. I moved out a week after my youngest son was born and I nursed my baby. Low and behold that deadbeat started acting like he doesn't have any kids and hasn't seen them in months. I find it hilarious that he controlled so much and acted like he cared so much about his kids but now doesn't see them, check on them or anything. So, no, I dont think men like my ex deserve a say. Why any man would sit there and say "No, I would rather spend $120+ a month on formula rather than you breastfeed your baby for free" is beyond me.

laurieluvsit · Accepted Answer

The dad pictures are funny :) No, no one should be able to tell a mother that she can not do something that is so vitally important for the health and well being of her child... no one! ... ever!

humanearth · Accepted Answer

I left that up to the mom, she's the one that has to deal with all the stuff. Human tit milk is the best for rug rats.

But their other factors that go in to play.

Like diet, meds, side effects of side meds, environmental issues. All this effects the amount of tit milk the female human can produce

All of mine were human tit feed, but my daughter couldn't, her body couldn't produce enough human tit milk to maintain human life. Due to factors above

So I leave it in the hands of the female human. Because the male human is basically along for the ride.

Can human male produce tit milk? Well I have study this before and yes it has been found that the male human does process the ability to produce tit milk.

I read that during the Vietnam War that when the mothers were killed. That the man took over (now I don't know if this true or not. Its just something I read)

So I guess when its a do or die moment anything is possible

DIRKINOFF · Accepted Answer

Parenting is a team sport. So while the mother has final say over her body it's both of their baby. I think it's necessary to way the pros and the cons objectively and way the options against what is best for the child's development. In the end every relationship is different and what works for one couple (wife submitting to the husband) may not be good for the next (hyper liberal) or ultimately for the child. In the end as long as they have the best interest of the baby in mind it shouldn't matter how they come to the conclusion that they did.

BeardedViking33 · Answer

As a father with a wife whose breastfeeding. I don't feel I have the right to tell her to not breastfeed, nor do I have the right to tell her she HAS to. As mature adults we discussed the pros and cons, and she tried and endured and now at 19 months is still breastfeeding. However, I have begun to raise my concerns of breastfeeding beyond the age of 2. While some out there think it's ok to breastfeed until the child no longer wants it (sorry 5years is way to dam old) I think once the child is old enough to say "Mommy, boobies". It's time to cut them off. Because it's no longer about nutritional value, it's about comfort, which isn't bad entirely. But developmental behaviors may take a toll. This is just my own view, and some taken from watching other families and friends raise their children.

Sbgirl · Answer

I think it depends on the situation. Many mothers don't breastfeed due to lack of milk production (basically not enough to feed the baby properly) or due to pain, as it can be very painful for some women and they may experience blood, cracked skin, etc in what is already a very sensitive area. In these circumstances, then no woman should ever feel pressured by anyone into forcing herself to breastfeed. Of course, I think a lot of dads would, in this case, say they would prefer the mother not to for her wellbeing.

I can understand fathers having some input. If the mother is able to breastfeed, is present and it is not a painful experience for her, then I don't see anything wrong with voicing an opinion if that's what you would prefer, as long as it isn't pressurizing her when she is in a vulnerable place anyway, so it would have to be done carefully.

imthatsteve · Answer

I think it should always be preferred to breast feed or at least pump milk but i understand that this isn't always feasible and thats why other options exist.

I think in a healthy relationship two parents should be mature enough to talk to each other and make their concerns known to the other and work out an acceptable compromise/agreement ultimately the woman has the final say in anything regarding her body but i think she would be a shitty person if she refused to consider input from her partner. Just the same i think the man would be a shitty person if he blamed her for not being able to adequatly breastfeed their children. Your a team, you should act like it. You need to build each other up and give each other strength not tear each other down. Once you have a baby your concerns are not important.

And having a healthy relationship between mom and dad is far more important for your child than breast feeding.

BilyanasBeach · Answer

My answer is probably no, he shouldn't have a say. Mother should decide with the help of doctor.

I'm not sure if I would breastfeed or for how long. I would decide alone. My husband can say if he agrees or not but at the end of the day he can't do anything about my decision. (For example he can't take away my baby from my breast nor can he forcefully put her/him there, plus, I don't believe any sane man would try to do that, or be against my decision so much to try to do that :) ) And of course I wouldn't make a decision that would hurt the baby just so it can benefit me. If I won't breastfeed I would ask my doctor for the healthiest alternative. Sorry for a long answer, I added what I think will be my experience one day :)

Lost_Spark · Answer

It is completely different, the mother has carried her child and her body is attuned to her child. A man has no right to deny that and ultimately it is the mother's choice as to whether she nurses her child or not.

Because my baby struggled to latch on, it was hard to see how much milk he was getting. Changed into a good formula purely so we knew he was getting enough food.

Worked out better, because the both of us can easily feed our child and know he is getting enough.

Ultimately, it is the mother's Decision.

American_Centurion · Answer

Of course but ultimately it's the woman's choice because she has to do it. In the modern era women have a choice so baby formula like birth control and labor saving devices have freed women to choose to work and gain more control over their bodies rather than feminism.

ineedatan · Answer

Heck no! It's a biological bond and nurturing connection between a mother and her child, but if the mother has an emotional or mental disconnect/discomfort with the pressures of "have to", she shouldn't "have to" anything if she doesn't wish to breast feed - post partum can take such a toll and no man should put a mom in any state of stress! Her body, her choice, her say.

Am_and_Pm · Answer

No, men should not have a complete say withoutbthere being a case, such as, the baby is dying from the mother's breast milk. I feel like men have to much power and should definitely not have a say over a females body. I feel people should talk when death or abuse is the case.

All4ur_pleazure · Answer

There’s plenty of healthy benefits to breastfeeding for both the mother and the child. Personally I don’t think the father should have a say in it since it’s not his body. Unless the doctor said there’s a risk to breastfeed a child than I can see the father having a bit of an opinion about it.

Nalix · Answer

They should definitely be allowed to have the conversation. In the end, it's not them actually doing it, but it's their kid too, so they certainly should have an opinion that has at least some weight on their wife's decision. It's still up to her though. Probably the sort of thing that should be at least mentioned before entering a serious LTR.

TonyMetal___86 · Answer

The housewife always listens to her man usually and no good father in the world will prevent his wife from giving milk to hia baby, in contrary, he will feed his wife healthy food and buy her natural juices and keeps her happy so she keeps producing lots of milk for the baby 😊

Grond21 · Answer

Both parents get to say and how their children are raised. Trying to divide it up seems like you're creating division where you don't need it. If they both love each other, and they both love the baby, then they both have a responsibility to each other and to do what's best for the baby. It's pretty much that simple

HonestWeirdo · Answer

yes they should as he will have a view and an opinion and as they both created the baby his opinion counts. however ultimately it should be down to the mom. for example. mum doesn't want to breast feed and dad does. science proves it is more beneficial to be breast fed so it is important that his voice is heard as it may change mind of mum.
if mum yes and dad no then I think he is still entitled to have an opinion but unless maybe mum is junkie or alcoholic or producing toxins with her milk then it should be up to mum.
Either way both should discuss and both should have a say in everything to do with THEIR child

Astarlessnightsky · Answer

Yes... i guess... i mean i don't see a reason why the father would have something against breastfeeding.
But if the Wife won't breastfeed without a good reason, i guess everyone would be angry with her.

canadiancoloursky · Answer

If the mom is smoking, drinking drugging or on pharmaceuticals she shouldn't be breastfeeding so in that way dads should have a say. Though any other reason, no

Breastfeeding in public is not a shameful thing either, I'm pro public feeding

SarahNiemann · Answer

Have a say? Sure, he can say whatever he wants, Should he get to choose? HELL NO! It. s HER body, if she doesn’t want to breast feed (for whatever reason) it’s entirely up to her!

TheAfrikan · Answer

❕ If she can do me a favour and breast feed our kid for three months then that is great.
So once ladies please embrace that. i would not prefer my kid being fed on milk from a 🐑🐑. it might end up crazy and on rampage.
So I think if she understands the benefits of breast feeding, She will not debate from tht.

Felicityoyo · Answer

Of course. If you're breastfeeding it takes away the dads ability to bond with and feed the baby. It's a valid concern which should be discussed if it comes up.

SpiffyDiffy · Answer

I don't think he should say that you can't. But I think it's understandable if he wants you to be discreet about it. That's where the discussion should lie. Not whether or not you are allowed to.

Oram52 · Answer

Yes fathers should have a say. Are fathers part of child's life? Are fathers involved in their children's upbringing? So why shouldn't fathers have a say. I don't want kids but if I did I will never marry someone who wouldn't breastfeed.

godfatherfan · Answer

of course he should have a say. It is important that babies breastfeed if possible. Not all women can though. But they need to at least try unless told not to by a doctor.

Jjpayne · Answer

It's in idea for sure! And gives mom's a break too... But is it her milk or powdered milk 🤔 My father's day was good, I spent it with my mom and brother :)

TheFartSaver · Answer

No. As someone that attempted breastfeeding, it is very hard mentally and physically. Women drive themselves crazy over it. If they don't feel they can continue it is her choice and her mental health.

GoodGuyBreakingBad · Answer

Nope, the Mother gave birth she needs a say so.. I think the Father needs to
agree and let Mom's breastfeed little junior or little missy... I like to agree unless
the Mothers health would prohibit or cause issues with the baby's health?

errorgoodnameunfound · Answer

Yes. The father's sperm helped make the baby. Therefore, if the dad says he prefers formula or another method, it's his baby too.  #smashthematriarchy #immagetmyasskickedbutlolworthit :)

jemismyname · Answer

supposedly dudes can breastfeed, too. like, everyone has mammary glands... it's not typically done, but i would totally be down to breastfeed our baby myself. then the mother could save her nice tities for me... right? (or at least not have to overwork them) :D

AdithyaR · Answer

Well basically it depends on how she feels cause in the end, its her nips getting sucked and potentially bitten.
Scientifically it's healthier to breastfeed the baby. But if they prefer other methods then I guess it's her choice.

R3DthatDude · Answer

Everything is teamwork and compromise. What if he wants to get a vasectomy but she wants kids. It’s not good to shut each other off just because we have the physical right. No one makes a baby by themselves.

pleasestopthis · Answer

I mean, of course, he is the father. But he should have some sense too and understand the circumstances. He should approve breastfeeding, but not force it if the mother has some issue that prevents her from doing it... you know like nipple fissures, mastitis, or even no milk at all.

rose004b · Answer

Absolutely. This directly affects the child's health and even its psychological development, so we can't make this issue just about the woman's body. But ultimately, she's the only one who can be in control of her own body.

letssee89 · Answer

I'd recommend leaving that answer to professionals in the field. If the doctors say that the baby should be breast fed, then I'd recommend following their suggestion. If, for some reason, they don't recommend it, then I'd suggest following those recommendations instead.

elizamichale1 · Answer

Yea there's nothing wrong in a couple discussing something and agreeing on mutually  my boyfriend has asked me to do extended breastfeeding to my twins and i happily agreed

nawtee_me · Answer

Fathers day was good thanks. I think dads should have a say in mom breast feeding if they are together. If not and she is raising the child then no he should not. But it is best for baby if mom does...

alice55 · Answer

Either ways he can say what he want but in the end of the day if the woman don't want to do it then she aren't gonna do it so it's pretty pointless.

Bman4907 · Answer

I'm only against it when my kid is being used as an "activist prop" like Alyssa Milano's baby. She leaves the house just to do that in public to make people feel uncomfortable.

not329446 · Answer

Pictures? I don't see a man really wanting a say here. Some guy trying to say he has a better idea would most likely be a display of ignorance. Sorry guys you just don't stand a chance in this choice.

Phoebe45 · Answer

I don’t think he should have a say wether the mother breastfeeds the child or not. Breastfeeding is a natural phenomenon.

Anonymous · Answer

Wth I’m sorry but this question is crazy lol a women’s body is made specifically to carry a child and breastfeed it’s called nurturing. A man can take care of a child too but really like come on😂

angeliquedevereux2 · Answer

Can i just have a moment here, this whole fathers day thing confused the shit out of me cuz where i live its in November 😂

SuccessfulHornDog · Answer

I hate the idea of men surrogating breast feeding but people are free to do what they want. I think that father should discuss the topic with the mother and they can decide together

wellendowedwonder · Answer

I think it should be a mutual decision! Speaking from experience. But I guess I'll definitely it's up to Mom if she's going to do it or not. and not only that maybe let Dad get his nipple bit a few times and see what he thinks about it LOL

lanadelrey25 · Answer

that last picture is disturbing and if that first one is actually a male, then that one is too

grimlochV · Answer

yeah I think the father has a right to have a say whether his kid becomes a titty baby on a mama's boy for the rest of his life suck on his mama's titty

your_One · Answer

I'd say it's a good idea for the father to at least express his feelings about it but at the end of the day it's the mothers body and her choice.

AnnonEMouse · Answer

No. He should generally have a say in how the kids are raised, but not this area.

ellkell · Answer

Not at all. But before having kids, a couple should sit down and discuss all the details on how they want they're kids to be raised and why or you're going to find big problems later

Anonymous · Answer

If the father can't have a say in mother not breastfeeding the child, which she is biologically supposed to do then the mother has no say in father providing for the child which he's not even biologically supposed to do.

Bedazzled2 · Answer

They should both have a discussion about it and come to an agreement

Apope16 · Answer

No. THat is totally up to the woman. I think as a man we can give our opinions about how we think that breastfeeding is healthier. But I think that should be a woman's choice and her comfort.

Skadouchebag · Answer

I think this decision should be made by a doctor rather than one of the parents

ask4any · Answer

Yes he should. Even tho I'm of the frame of mind that breast is best, he is the child's father and has a right

mefirst2000 · Answer

I feel that the father should have an input on this as he yeilds to the mother's dission

YHL6965 · Answer

Are there really people who are against breastfeeding, especially in private?

alwaysintosomething · Answer

Since it concerns the baby's health, yes he should have a say

Smashingdoozy · Answer

It can be a discussion, but I don't know why any man would advise against it.

AkshiJanjua · Answer

i think it's mutual understanding between parents father can't just control the mother and mother can't just ignore any point of view of father

darkcloud1945 · Answer

love your questions but this one i 'm not touching.

bklynbadboy1 · Answer

Yes I think parents should decide everything together

padreflint · Answer

I think there should be a discussion about it, but in the end it's up to the momma.

Anonymous · Answer

Yes. If the mother is capable to lactation he should encourage her to breast feeding, because it's the healthiest way to feed a baby. Well being of the baby is their mutual interest.

Should The Father Have A Say In Whether Or Not The Mother Breast Feeds?

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