Breastfeeding in Greece: Unveiling Parental Perspectives, Attitudes, and Sociodemographic Influences.

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both the mother and child, affecting them physically and psychosocially. Despite these well-documented benefits, breastfeeding rates up to 12 or 24 months remain quite low in developed countries. Parental positive attitudes toward breastfeeding can significantly influence the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding.

Aim: To investigate parents' perspectives and attitudes toward breastfeeding, as well as the relationship between these attitudes and their sociodemographic characteristics/parenting choices.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study that used self-administered questionnaires developed for the purpose of the study and was completed by 862 parents (mothers and fathers) who received support from a private maternity and breastfeeding support center.

Results: Attitudes toward breastfeeding after the first year of the child's life was positively correlated with female gender (p = 0.001), parents' higher educational level (p < 0.001), exclusive breastfeeding (p = 0.000), residence in other than Athens urban area (p = 0.003). Overall breastfeeding experience was positively associated with living in Athens or another urban area (p < 0.001), parents' higher educational level (p = 0.005), and the birth order of this child (p = 0.028). More positive attitudes observed among parents whose child weaned themselves or due to a new pregnancy and among parents whose child was born naturally (p = 0.000). Information and support during breastfeeding and weaning were additional factors that contributed to more positive views (p = 0.000). More positive attitudes were associated with the introduction of whole pieces of food as the first food (p = 0.000), and finally, a positive attitude after the first year and in general was linked to not following a strict sleep schedule during the first year of the child's life and a longer duration of co-sleeping in the same room (p = 0.000).

Conclusions: The study could serve as a basis for more extensive research on breastfeeding and parenting. The findings of this study can be utilized by health professionals to demonstrate greater awareness, empathy, and effectiveness regarding issues of breastfeeding and parenting.