A study to explore the benefits of providing breastfeeding information to fathers in respect of breastfeeding initiation and duration.

Increasing breastfeeding rates has a key role in helping to promote public health and reduce health inequalities (DOH 2008). Breastfeeding at 6-8 weeks is recognised as a key indicator for child health (DOH 2009). Life expectancy for males and females in Tameside and Glossop is reportedly two years below the national average (Tameside and Glossop 2010). In 2003 Tameside and Glossop’s breastfeeding rates were one of the lowest in the region with only a third of all babies living in the borough being breastfed at birth. Following a local multiagency strategy to improve rates there has been an increase in initiation from around 51% in 2005 to 61% in 2010. However since 2010, local initiation and 6-8 weeks rates have plateaued.

This study was undertaken using mixed methods research methodology, with questionnaires and telephone interviews, to evaluate a health intervention using a DVD to provide information directly to fathers in the antenatal period, and to assess the interventions effect on infant feeding choices. Fathers attending antenatal appointments, after 30 weeks, were recruited and randomised into two groups, one of which received the health intervention. The first questionnaire and Iowa infant feeding attitude scale (IIFAS) was completed by all the fathers. The fathers in the group that received the DVD were also followed up with another questionnaire, asking their views on the DVD, and another IIFAS to review their attitude score. Breastfeeding data was then collected at birth, first health visitor contact at 10-14 days and at 6-8 weeks, to compare breastfeeding rates. Initiation rates were higher, by 14% in the sample who were given the DVD, and at the primary visit there was a 19% higher rate of exclusive breastfeeding. By six to eight weeks exclusive breastfeeding rates were higher in the sample where the DVD was given, although any breastfeeding (breast and formula mixed) rates, were higher in the sample who were not given the DVD as there was more mixed feeding taking place. Therefore as health professionals supporting local mothers to breastfeed exclusively to six months and then up to two years and beyond, the DVD may prove to be a useful tool in increasing continued exclusive breastfeeding, and working with potential mixed feeders to support them to be confident to exclusively breastfeed.