Family characteristics associated with duration of breastfeeding during early infancy among primiparas

Abstract

This investigation examined the association of relationship characteristics and parental gender roles with duration of breastfeeding among primiparous women during the early postpartum period. An ethnically diverse group of urban middle-class women (n = 115) who initiated breastfeeding were individually surveyed by telephone along with their male partners. Results of the Cox regression analyses confirmed earlier findings reported in the literature. Reporting higher relationship distress was predictive of early breastfeeding cessation at a marginal level of significance. However, levels of maternal responsibility for household tasks and infant care were highly significant predictors of breastfeeding cessation but in opposite directions. These results suggest that the effects of paternal gender roles on breastfeeding success may vary depending on the area of involvement. Findings have implications for further research examining breastfeeding duration, gender roles, and relationship quality and for clinical practice that facilitates adaptive roles and relationships among new parents.