Breastfeeding Status of Infant from Birth to One Year and the Influence of Fathers in Society with Traditional Cultural Structure, Türkiye

Objectives: The aim of this study was to focus on the father in breastfeeding, to determine the influence of fathers in breastfeeding in a society with a traditional culture consisting of different ethnic groups, and to determine the prevalence of breastfeeding at 0-1 years of age with their statements. Methods: The sample of this cross-sectional study consisted of 410 infants aged 0–1 year and their fathers. Data were collected using a questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, the Breastfeeding Attitude, and Involvement Scale, which is the only scale that examines the cultural impact of attitudes and involvement together. The SPSS package program was used for statistical analysis. Results: Fathers were found to have negative attitudes towards breastfeeding and low involvement in breastfeeding. Fathers' attitudes towards breastfeeding were negatively influenced by university or higher education (3.1-fold) and employment (0.4-fold) (p˂.05). Involvement in breastfeeding was positively influenced by working during the day (2.4-fold), having information about breastfeeding (1.7-fold) and attending breastfeeding (3.1-fold) (p˂.05). The prevalence of breastfeeding was 85.6% in among 12-month-old infants Conclusion: This study highlights that paternal culture may play a role in breastfeeding. In addition, this study it was found that the breastfeeding rate was below the global targets and that role of the father and cultural influence had a significant impact on this rate. Future studies should continue to evaluate fathers’ involvement in breastfeeding longitudinally so that relevant support can be rendered.