Many factors influence breastfeeding. Nipple pain and comfort are among these factors and can negatively impact the breastfeeding process. A nursing pillow can relieve nipple pain and increase comfort. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of breastfeeding pillow use on nipple pain and comfort.
This study was planned to determine the effect of using a breastfeeding pillow in the postpartum period on nipple pain and maternal comfort. The breastfeeding process is a crucial period not only for ensuring the newborn's adequate nutrition but also for strengthening the bond between mother and baby. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months, and continuing breastfeeding up to two years of age. However, the sustainability of this process is directly related to the mother's physical comfort and the challenges she encounters. Nipple pain is one of the most common problems during the breastfeeding period. It is often caused by improper latching of the baby and is one of the leading reasons for early cessation of breastfeeding. Additionally, the mother's inability to maintain a proper body position while breastfeeding may lead to physical discomforts such as back and waist pain, negatively affecting her level of comfort. In this context, breastfeeding pillows are assistive tools designed to help mothers maintain an appropriate position during breastfeeding, aiming to reduce nipple pain and increase comfort. Although there are studies on the positive effects of breastfeeding pillows on breastfeeding success, comfort, and maternal-infant outcomes, no study has been found that specifically investigates the effect of using a breastfeeding pillow in the postpartum period on nipple pain and maternal comfort in women who had a vaginal delivery. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of breastfeeding pillow use during the postpartum period on nipple pain and maternal comfort.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
112
Although there are studies investigating the effects of breastfeeding pillow use on breastfeeding success, comfort, and positive outcomes for both mother and baby, no study has been found examining the effect of breastfeeding pillow use on nipple pain and maternal comfort in women who have undergone vaginal delivery. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of breastfeeding pillow use on nipple pain and comfort during the postpartum period.
Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Murat Dilmener Hospital
Istanbul, Bakırköy, Turkey (Türkiye)
Nipple Pain
The intensity of nipple pain experienced by mothers during breastfeeding measured by Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
Time frame: It will be evaluated within the first 24 hours postpartum and on the 7th day.
Comfort
Maternal comfort during breastfeeding assessed using the Postpartum Comfort Scale.
Time frame: The Postpartum Comfort Scale is a validated tool consisting of 34 items rated on a 5-point Likert scale. It evaluates physical, psychospiritual, and sociocultural comfort. It will be evaluated within the first 24 hours postpartum and on the 7th day.
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