Even though partners don't physically produce the milk to feed their babies, there are plenty of ways they can get involved with the whole nursing process. In the beginning, many moms struggle with engorgement, difficult latch, and more. Luckily, there are lots of ways your partner can help you hand express that will make a generally awkward process a little bit easier, and help you work out some of the nursing-related kinks you may face in the beginning.

Hand expressing, according to La Leche League International (LLLI), is a very effective way for mothers to expel milk from their breasts without the help of a breast pump, or when they don't need to feed their baby. It can help relieve engorgement, increase your milk supply, or replace a breast pump once you get the hang of it. In the early months, while a mother's supply is still being established, hand expressing may end up being your best friend. And just like with any aspect of parenting, there's room for both parents to get involved.

Even though most breastfeeding-related material isn't geared towards them, the majority of new dads have an overwhelming desire to be involved in every area of their baby's life — just like the mother naturally is. And they have the right to be. Letting your partner help out in these small ways while you hand express can make things surprisingly simple and easy. Here are a few, small ways he can help when it's time for your to hand express.