Determinants of fathers’ involvement in breastfeeding practices in Kuala Selangor

Abstract

Introduction: Fathers’ knowledge, attitude, and involvement in breastfeeding practices are crucial factors to determine the success of breastfeeding outcomes such as decision-making on breastfeeding, successfulness of exclusive breastfeeding, and continuation of breastfeeding practices. This study aimed to identify the determinants of fathers’ involvement in breastfeeding practices. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 203 fathers attending Maternal and Child Health Clinics in Kuala Selangor. Self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain information regarding fathers’ sociodemography, breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and involvement towards breastfeeding practices. Results: Mean age of the fathers was 32.1±5.9 years, ranging between 21 to 50 years. Findings showed that majority of the fathers were involved in breastfeeding practices (52.7%; n=107, 57.0±6.2), had fair knowledge in breastfeeding (62.6%; n=127, 13.8±3.2), and showed low attitude towards breastfeeding (68.0%; n=138, 61.9±6.7). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed factors with significant influence on fathers’ involvement towards breastfeeding practices were: (1) fathers’ breastfeeding knowledge, (2) fathers’ attitudes towards breastfeeding practices, and (3) mode of infant delivery. Conclusion: These significant predictors may help healthcare professionals to establish effective strategies by advocating the role of fathers in the breastfeeding process such as by offering continuous support, active involvement, and effective participation.