As focused as you are on your new baby, understand that it can be isolating for your partner because they can’t breastfeed and they may feel like they can’t be as close to you or baby.

Here are some tips to help you and your partner stay connected.

Your partner may not be able to breastfeed, but they can do other things to get involved. Help them identify a few responsibilities that are their exclusive tasks, just as breastfeeding is yours. This can be baths, or changing nappies, or putting the baby to bed.

Make your partner feel wanted and needed in the feeding routine. Ask them to help clean pump parts, or bottles and teats. Ask them to be responsible for the changing bag, and for making sure you have your nursing cover when you go out and about.

Let your partner help when you are worried or have questions. They may not have the answer but they can listen and offer support. Remember to let them in – it’s important that they feel valued and it reassures them that you are still in this together.

When baby is down for a nap, talk to your partner about things that don’t involve the baby or children.

Try to connect over a TV show or sports team. Find something for just the two of you that you can do together, even if it’s only once a week.

When baby is older, take time to have a walk or go get a coffee or see a movie.