Fathers who take at least two weeks of leave after the birth of their child are more likely to report longer breastfeeding durations, according to a survey led by researchers from Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
“Our study shows fathers play a key role in breastfeeding success — and time off lets them provide crucial support when it matters most,” stated Dr. John James Parker, lead author and assistant professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
The research, published in BMC Public Health, is the first U.S.-based analysis using father-reported data on how paternity leave influences breastfeeding. Breastfeeding offers health benefits for mothers and infants; however, exclusive breastfeeding rates in the U.S. remain low, with only 46.5% of infants breastfed through three months.
The study analyzed responses from 240 employed fathers in Georgia using data from the PRAMS for Dads survey. It found that fathers taking two or more weeks of leave were 31% more likely to report their infant being breastfed at eight weeks compared to those who took less time off.
“Fathers can support breastfeeding by taking on hands-on baby care — changing diapers, burping, rocking and feeding expressed milk — while also ensuring mothers get the nutrition, hydration and rest they need to recover,” said Parker.
Disparities were noted in access to paid leave among racial groups, with white fathers more likely to receive paid leave than others. Overall, 73% of employed fathers reported taking leave; over half received some form of paid leave. Fathers with paid leave were likelier to take at least two weeks off.
Parker shared his personal motivation for the research: “When I became a father, I realized how absent dads were from the conversation.” He emphasized the importance of involving fathers in family health discussions during medical training.
In comparison to other high-income countries, the U.S. lags behind in providing paid parental leave. A 2022 study showed only 13% of employers offer paid paternity leave universally, with most fathers taking one week or less if available.
“These disparities highlight challenges for families and underscore the need for more research,” Parker noted regarding policy implications on family health.
This research was supported by funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Cooperative agreement #U38OT00140) and CDC Innovation Fund.