Abstract
BackgroundPopular parenting literature promotes different approaches to caring for infants, based around variations in the use of parent-led routines and promoting infant independence. However, there is little empirical evidence of how these early behaviours affect wider parenting choices such as infant feeding. Breastfeeding often requires an infant-led approach, feeding on demand and allowing the infant to regulate intake whilst conversely formula feeding is open to greater caregiver manipulation. The infant-led style associated with breastfeeding may therefore be at odds with philosophies that encourage strict use of routine and independence. The aim of this study was to explore the association between early parenting behaviours and breastfeeding duration.MethodsFive hundred and eight mothers with an infant aged 0–12 months completed a questionnaire examining breastfeeding duration, attitudes and behaviours surrounding early parenting (e.g. anxiety, use of routine, involvement, nurturance and discipline). Participants were attendees at baby groups or participants of online parenting forums based in the UK.ResultsFormula use at birth or short breastfeeding duration were significantly associated with low levels of nurturance, high levels of reported anxiety and increased maternal use of Parent-led routines. Conversely an infant-led approach characterised by responding to and following infant cues was associated with longer breastfeeding duration.DiscussionMaternal desire to follow a structured parenting approach which purports use of Parent-led routines and early demands for infant independence may have a negative impact upon breastfeeding duration. Increased maternal anxiety may further influence this relationship. The findings have important implications for Health Professionals supporting new mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Highlights
The importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health is well established
Infants who are formula fed are at increased risk of gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, allergies and obesity [1,2]
Low confidence, poor self efficacy and anxiety can lead to formula use [8], as well as concerns for infant health, growth and development [9,10]
Summary
The importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health is well established. Infants who are formula fed are at increased risk of gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, allergies and obesity [1,2]. Low confidence, poor self efficacy and anxiety can lead to formula use [8], as well as concerns for infant health, growth and development [9,10]. Popular parenting literature promotes different approaches to caring for infants, based around variations in the use of parent-led routines and promoting infant independence. There is little empirical evidence of how these early behaviours affect wider parenting choices such as infant feeding. Breastfeeding often requires an infant-led approach, feeding on demand and allowing the infant to regulate intake whilst formula feeding is open to greater caregiver manipulation. The infant-led style associated with breastfeeding may be at odds with philosophies that encourage strict use of routine and independence. The aim of this study was to explore the association between early parenting behaviours and breastfeeding duration
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