Paternal Breastfeeding Involvement, Paternal-Infant Attachment, and Breastfeeding Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort
Burçin Yorgancı1, Perran Boran1, Hatice Ezgi Barış2
1Department of Social Pediatrics, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
Summary
Fathers
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Pediatrics
- Psychology
Background:
- Paternal involvement in infant care is increasingly recognized for its impact on child development.
- Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health, and understanding factors influencing its duration is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between fathers' engagement in breastfeeding and their bond with the infant.
- To determine how these factors relate to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and overall breastfeeding duration.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational cohort study followed fathers of 1-month-old infants.
- Paternal breastfeeding involvement (PBIS), paternal-infant attachment, and paternal mental health were assessed.
- Breastfeeding outcomes were evaluated at 1, 6, and 12 months postpartum.
Main Results:
- Higher paternal breastfeeding involvement and stronger paternal-infant attachment were linked to increased odds of EBF.
- Paternal involvement was also associated with longer total breastfeeding duration.
- Each point increase in PBIS score correlated with a 3.1% rise in EBF odds.
Conclusions:
- Paternal breastfeeding involvement and paternal-infant attachment are key predictors of successful EBF and extended breastfeeding.
- Father-inclusive breastfeeding support programs can enhance breastfeeding outcomes.
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