Fatherhood and breastfeeding: a qualitative exploration of counselling experiences

Abstract

Background: Including fathers as breastfeeding facilitators and providing qualified breastfeeding counselling from healthcare professionals are key factors that increase breastfeeding outcomes. It is essential to explore how healthcare professionals can effectively support fathers in navigating their roles and addressing the challenges they encounter to promote breastfeeding. We aimed to explore fathers’ experiences of being in a breastfeeding family with a particular focus on their interactions with midwives and public health nurses during breastfeeding counselling. The purpose was to gain deeper insights into the phenomenon of breastfeeding counselling from the father’s perspective to develop knowledge that can better help fathers support breastfeeding mothers. Methods: A qualitative content analysis with a phenomenological hermeneutic approach was employed using individual interviews with ten fathers in Norway between January and October 2022. The study adhered to the COREQ Checklist for reporting. Results: The meaning of fathers` experiences of being in a breastfeeding family and receiving breastfeeding counselling was formulated into three interrelated themes: being a caregiver and breastfeeding facilitator, meaning to be prepared for the father’s role and supporting mother and child; being part of a breastfeeding family which means being included or excluded in breastfeeding counselling, desire to nurture parent-child bonds and develop resilience as a couple. Managing everyday life means making their own decisions, and competent breastfeeding counsellors provide security and trust, while inadequate counselling leaves fathers feeling trapped in a chaotic situation. Conclusions: To enable fathers to fulfil their roles as caregivers and breastfeeding facilitators, healthcare professionals should actively encourage their participation and involvement in breastfeeding counselling and discussions regarding breastfeeding. Additionally, to help fathers navigate daily life confidently, healthcare professionals must offer qualified breastfeeding counselling, be aware of their needs and provide appropriate support. Empowering fathers to support breastfeeding may contribute to promoting breastfeeding, closer relationships and better health for the family.