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Fathers and breast feeding: a pilot observational study
Journal of the Royal Society of Health
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Fathers often feel excluded from infant feeding decisions and support. Increased involvement opportunities from an early stage can enhance paternal engagement in infant nutrition choices.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Paternal involvement in infant care is crucial for child development.
- Understanding fathers' perspectives on infant feeding is essential for supportive family practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate fathers' involvement in infant feeding.
- To explore fathers' attitudes towards infant feeding methods and maternal feeding practices.
Main Methods:
- A pilot survey using questionnaires was administered to fathers of infants under one year.
- The study included 113 fathers, achieving a response rate of 72%.
Main Results:
- Nearly 30% of fathers had not discussed feeding methods with anyone.
- Over 60% discussed feeding with their partner; 64% sometimes helped feed their child, and 17% always did.
- A significant portion of fathers expressed discomfort with breastfeeding in front of strangers (42%) or in public places (over 50%).
Conclusions:
- Fathers may experience a sense of exclusion regarding infant feeding.
- There is a need to provide fathers with greater opportunities for early involvement in infant feeding decisions.
- Encouraging paternal participation can foster a more inclusive approach to infant nutrition.