A team of researchers from Curtin University has determined that providing education and support to fathers improves their partners\u2019 breastfeeding rates.<\/p>\n
Professor Bruce Maycock, Head of Curtin\u2019s School of Public Health and lead researcher on the project, said there are numerous factors which can influence breastfeeding rates.<\/p>\n
\u201cMode of delivery, birth weight, socioeconomic status and support of the infant\u2019s father can all affect the rate at which a woman breastfeeds, and while much research has been done into other areas, we were keen to examine the role of the spouse in increasing breastfeeding rates,\u201d Professor Maycock said.<\/p>\n
\u201cUltimately, the research aimed to increase exclusive breastfeeding to six months from current levels; to identify the facilitators and the barriers to breastfeeding; and to identify changes in fathers\u2019 attitudes towards breastfeeding pre and post intervention.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe trial involved half the respondents attending the standard antenatal classes offered by their maternity hospital, while the intervention group attended additional antenatal classes and received printed and promotional materials.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe study found that the partners of the fathers that received additional support were almost 1.5 times more likely to be breastfeeding their infants, six weeks after birth.<\/p>\n
Professor Maycock explained that even a small increase in breastfeeding rates provides benefits, as it means more babies are getting the essential nutrients and antibodies they need to fight infection and reduce allergy risks.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis study showed the importance of fathers being involved in all decisions regarding child rearing and the positive aspects of their engagement in planning, protection, and provision,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The randomised control trial was conducted in eight public maternity hospitals in Perth, Western Australia and a total of 699 couples participated. The study was published in the Journal of Human Lactation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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