Husband support and exclusive breastfeeding among breastfeeding mothers

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is essential for infant growth, infection prevention, and maternal health. Husband support is one factor that can strengthen maternal confidence and consistency in breastfeeding. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between husband support and exclusive breastfeeding among breastfeeding mothers in Batursari Village, Batangan District, Pati Regency. This quantitative analytic study used a cross-sectional design. The population was 40 breastfeeding mothers, and 36 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Husband support was measured using a structured questionnaire and categorized as good or less support. Exclusive breastfeeding was categorized as yes, or no. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution and the chi-square test. Most respondents received good husband support (66.7%), and most respondents provided exclusive breastfeeding (58.3%). Among mothers with good husband support, 79.2% provided exclusive breastfeeding. Among mothers with less husband support, 83.3% did not provide exclusive breastfeeding. The chi-square test showed a significant relationship between husband support and exclusive breastfeeding (p = 0.001). The calculated odds ratio was 19.00 (95% CI = 3.11-116.08). Husband support was significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding among breastfeeding mothers in Batursari Village. Breastfeeding promotion should involve husbands through informational, emotional, instrumental, and appraisal support.