Paternity and parental leave in Italy: the parents' perspective.

BACKGROUND: Growing recognition of fathers' role in childcare highlights paternity and parental leave policies. The aim of this study is to investigate the perspectives of parents in Italy on the paternity and parental leave utilisation by fathers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out, using web-based questionnaires targeting parents of children born between 2018 and 2023. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative content analysis was applied to open-ended responses. RESULTS: A total of 3,811 mothers and 720 fathers responded. Paternity leave was used by 72.6% of fathers. Non-use was primarily attributed to ineligibility (58.4%). Fathers' parental leave utilisation was low (20.4%). Most parents agreed that mothers need longer leave for the dyad's needs, like breastfeeding. Living in southern Italy and having lower educational levels reduce the likelihood to take leave. CONCLUSIONS: Paternity and parental leave are underutilised by fathers in Italy. There is a need for better-paid and more accessible leave policies to promote active fatherhood and gender equality.