Breastfeeding and the quality of the sibling relationship

Abstract

ObjectiveTo examine the association between the type of breastfeeding practiced and the quality of the sibling relationship. DesignCross-sectional study. MethodParticipants were recruited between July and December 2019 through parenting associations and parenting support groups. They comprised a total of 149 mothers with two children between 2 and 7 years of age, who had practiced the same type of feeding with both children. Sibling relationship quality was assessed using the conflict/rivalry and warmth dimensions of the Parents' Expectations and Perceptions of Sibling Relationships with their Children (PEPC-SRQ) questionnaire. Analyses of covariance were used to identify any differences in these two dimensions of the PEPC-SRQ between the study groups (formula feeding, breastfeeding, non-prolonged breastfeeding, prolonged breastfeeding and tandem breastfeeding). ResultsNo significant differences were observed between any of the groups regarding the conflict/rivalry dimension; in contrast, significant differences were found in the warmth dimension between the breastfeeding and formula feeding groups. ConclusionsBreastfeeding, regardless of its duration and simultaneity, was associated with higher scores in the dimension of warmth of the sibling relationship. Implications for practiceThis information should be considered by healthcare professionals when providing advice on breastfeeding.