OXYTOCIN MASSAGE OVERCOMES BREAST MILK PRODUCTION PROBLEMS

Abstract

Breastfeeding newborns is critical for the prevention of stunting. However, many mothers encounter significant barriers in milk production due to various physiological and psychological factors. According to the 2018 Basic Health Research, 65.7% of Indonesian mothers experienced breastfeeding difficulties. While recent data from the 2023 Indonesia Health Survey indicates an increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates to 68.6%, this figure remains below the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target of 80%. Various interventions are employed to enhance milk production, including non pharmacological oxytocin massage, which stimulates the release of the oxytocin hormone to facilitate milk let-down. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of oxytocin massage for postpartum mothers experiencing lactation difficulties. Conducted as a descriptive case study involving two postpartum mothers at Sidikalang Regional General Hospital, the research utilized interviews, direct observations, and oxytocin massage interventions performed twice daily for three days, with each session lasting 15 minutes. Results demonstrated that while there was no initial milk production, a significant increase in volume was observed following the treatment. This method proved to be an effective strategy for increasing milk production. It is recommended that nursing staff educate families on oxytocin massage to improve breastfeeding success and achieve national health targets.