The Effect of Oxytocin Massage After Cesarean Section on Anthropometric Characteristics of the Newborn and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy: A Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Study

Objective: Delays in breastfeeding and milk release after cesarean section may negatively affect the early initiation of breastfeeding and the mother's breastfeeding self-efficacy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of breast and oxytocin massage after cesarean section on the anthropometric characteristics of the newborn and on breastfeeding self-efficacy. Methods: The study was conducted as a single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Mothers (N = 126) who delivered by cesarean section in the postpartum department of a private hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, were randomized into three groups: breast massage group (n = 42), oxytocin massage group (n = 42), and control group (n = 42). Results: When the postpartum breastfeeding characteristics of the mothers were examined, it was found that the mean LATCH (Latch on breast, Audible swallowing, Type of nipple, Comfort of breast/nipple, and Hold) total score did not differ significantly among the three groups during the postnatal period; however, a significant difference was observed at discharge. The anthropometric measurements of the infants in the study were obtained and examined, with their weights recorded on the first postpartum day, at discharge, and on the seventh day. A statistically significant difference was found both among the groups and within each group. The breastfeeding self-efficacy of the mothers was also assessed on the first postpartum day, at discharge, and on the seventh day. According to the repeated-measures analysis of variance, a significant difference was found across these time points (p < .05). Conclusions: Oxytocin massage showed significantly better results than breast massage and the control group on all outcome measures. Oxytocin and breast massage can have a significant impact on breastfeeding and infant health. For this reason, health professionals are expected to provide advice on how to do oxytocin massage and breast care correctly.