The Effect of Breastfeeding Training Given to Parents During the Breastfeeding Process, Cultural Behaviors, and Maternal Attachment

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effects of breastfeeding education and counseling services provided to primiparous women and their partners on the breastfeeding process, cultural behaviors related to breastfeeding, and maternal-paternal attachment. Methods: This intervention study was conducted at family health centers in the Serik district of Antalya province, Turkey. A total of 120 primiparous women and their partners were randomly assigned to either an experimental (n=60) or control group (n=60). Data were collected using the "Mothers' Introductory Information Form," "Fathers' Introductory Information Form," "Questionnaire on Breastfeeding Behaviors and Cultural Factors Affecting Breastfeeding," and "Maternal Attachment and Paternal Attachment Scales." Descriptive statistics, along with parametric and nonparametric tests, were employed for data analysis. Results: The exclusive breastfeeding rate in the experimental group was significantly higher (86.7%) compared to the control group (18.3%) during the first six months postpartum (p<0.001). Mean scores on the Maternal Attachment Scale and the Paternal Attachment Scale were significantly higher for mothers and fathers in the experimental group compared to those in the control group (p<0.001). Additionally, mothers in the experimental group exhibited significantly fewer culturally influenced breastfeeding behaviors compared to those in the control group. All mothers in the experimental group provided breast milk as the initial postpartum feeding, while in the control group, 10.0% gave date juice, 6.7% sugar water, and 6.7% tiryak. Conclusion: Breastfeeding education and counseling significantly improved exclusive breastfeeding rates, enhanced parent-infant attachment, and reduced culturally influenced behaviors negatively affecting breastfeeding.