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The use of hormonal contraception is a common method used by women of childbearing age to prevent pregnancy. However, this method is often associated with side effects, one of which is spotting or light bleeding outside the menstrual cycle. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the type of hormonal contraception and the incidence of spotting in the Sonuo Village Health Center  area. This study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 37 respondents selected by total sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using the chi-square test with the help of SPSS software. The results showed that the majority of respondents used injectable contraception (62.2%), followed by implants (24.3%) and pills (13.5%). Most injectable users experienced spotting (82.6%), while implant users more often experienced amenorrhea (77.8%). The chi-square test showed a significant relationship between the type of hormonal contraception and the incidence of spotting (p-value = 0.000). The conclusion of this study is that the type of hormonal contraception affects the incidence of spotting, where injectables cause spotting more often than other methods. Education about the side effects of hormonal contraception needs to be increased so that users can choose a method that suits their body condition.

The use of hormonal contraception is a common method used by women of childbearing age to prevent pregnancy. However, this method is often associated with side effects, one of which is spotting or light bleeding outside the menstrual cycle. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the type of hormonal contraception and the incidence of spotting in the Sonuo Village Health Center  area. This study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 37 respondents selected by total sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using the chi-square test with the help of SPSS software. The results showed that the majority of respondents used injectable contraception (62.2%), followed by implants (24.3%) and pills (13.5%). Most injectable users experienced spotting (82.6%), while implant users more often experienced amenorrhea (77.8%). The chi-square test showed a significant relationship between the type of hormonal contraception and the incidence of spotting (p-value = 0.000). The conclusion of this study is that the type of hormonal contraception affects the incidence of spotting, where injectables cause spotting more often than other methods. Education about the side effects of hormonal contraception needs to be increased so that users can choose a method that suits their body condition.

Anemia is a global health problem that often occurs in pregnant women. Inadequate pregnancy spacing can contribute to the risk of anemia. This study aims to analyze the relationship between pregnancy spacing and the incidence of anemia in pregnant women. This type of research is observational analytic with a case-control design. This study was conducted from February to October 2024 at a selected health center in the region. The case-control design was chosen to investigate the causes of anemia during pregnancy, particularly focusing on the effects of pregnancy spacing. The number of samples used was 30 cases, while 30 control cases were selected by simple random sampling from a larger pool of eligible pregnant women. The analysis employed the chi-square test to determine the statistical significance of the relationship between pregnancy spacing and the incidence of anemia. Results showed that 21.7% of respondents had anemia, with a significantly higher prevalence in those with a pregnancy spacing of less than two years. After conducting the chi-square test, the result yielded a significant p-value of 0.002, indicating a strong association between short pregnancy intervals and anemia. This finding highlights the potential risks associated with inadequate pregnancy spacing, emphasizing the importance of family planning and prenatal care in preventing anemia in expectant mothers. The study suggests that adequate pregnancy spacing may reduce the incidence of anemia, thus promoting healthier pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, it underscores the need for educational programs aimed at raising awareness of the benefits of proper pregnancy planning. Such initiatives would not only help prevent anemia but also improve maternal and fetal health. Comprehensive health policies promoting spacing between pregnancies can have long-term positive effects on maternal well-being.

Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality globally, including in Indonesia. It is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, which appear after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The pathophysiology of preeclampsia is closely linked to oxidative stress, which is caused by abnormal placentation. One promising alternative treatment for managing preeclampsia is the use of natural ingredients with antioxidant properties, such as mulberry leaves (Morus alba). These leaves contain flavonoids, such as rutin and quercetin, which are known to have antioxidant effects. This study aims to examine the effects of mulberry leaf extract on blood pressure and proteinuria levels in male Wistar rats, using a preeclampsia model. The study employed a true experimental post-test only control group design. A total of 25 pregnant rats were randomly divided into five groups: a negative control group, a positive control group (which was induced with suramin to model preeclampsia), and three treatment groups receiving mulberry leaf extract at doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kgBW. Blood pressure and proteinuria levels were measured before and after 6 days of treatment. The results indicated that mulberry leaf extract significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and markedly lowered proteinuria levels. A significant relationship was observed between blood pressure and proteinuria (r = 0.528; p = 0.008), suggesting that the reduction in blood pressure was associated with a decrease in proteinuria. These findings suggest that mulberry leaf extract may be a promising natural complementary therapy for alleviating symptoms of preeclampsia, offering an alternative treatment approach to help manage this serious pregnancy complication. Further studies are needed to explore its potential in clinical applications.

Anemia is a common condition among pregnant women, often caused by insufficient iron intake or poor absorption due to digestive issues. This condition can have serious implications for both maternal and fetal health. The primary objective of this study was to explore the relationship between pregnant women’s knowledge about iron tablets and their adherence to the prescribed regimen at Saritani Health Center. This study utilized a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The population for this study consisted of all pregnant women visiting Saritani Health Center, with a sample size of 78 women selected through purposive sampling, based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The study’s findings indicated that the majority of respondents had a sufficient level of knowledge regarding the importance of iron tablets. A statistical analysis using the Spearman Rank test revealed a very strong correlation between the level of knowledge about iron tablets and adherence to their consumption, with a correlation coefficient of rs = 0.812 and a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This suggests that the higher the level of knowledge about iron tablets among pregnant women, the greater their compliance with taking these supplements. The study also found that while most respondents had sufficient knowledge about iron tablets, their compliance was moderate, which highlights the importance of ongoing education and support. The results of this study emphasize the critical role that knowledge plays in improving compliance with iron supplementation among pregnant women. Health education initiatives targeting pregnant women should focus on increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits of iron supplementation to prevent anemia and its associated risks. This study calls for enhanced counseling and educational efforts at the community health level to ensure better maternal health outcomes.

Posyandu is a community-based health program managed by and for the community, aiming to strengthen local health systems and facilitate access to essential health services. The temporary disruption of Posyandu services during the COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and toddlers, highlighting the importance of resilient volunteer performance post-pandemic. This study aims to examine the correlation between post-pandemic competence and the implementation of the five main activities by Posyandu volunteers in Malang, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design, the study involved a total sample of 123 Posyandu volunteers from two villages in Malang. Data collection was conducted over July to August 2023. The findings indicate a statistically significant but weak positive correlation between volunteer knowledge and motivation, with a p-value of 0.007 and a correlation coefficient of 0.242. This suggests that while increased knowledge is associated with higher motivation levels, the strength of this relationship is limited. Further analysis assessed the relationship between length of service and volunteer motivation, revealing no significant correlation (p = 0.675, r = -0.038). These results imply that the duration of volunteer service does not influence motivational levels among Posyandu volunteers. Given these findings, enhancing volunteers’ knowledge through regular training and refresher programs is essential to maintain motivation and improve service delivery. The study recommends continuous capacity-building efforts to empower Posyandu volunteers, thereby ensuring effective implementation of health activities post-pandemic. Future research should investigate additional factors that may affect volunteer motivation, such as social support, recognition, and workload. Understanding these dimensions can further strengthen Posyandu programs and support the vulnerable community members they serve.

Anemia is a global health problem that often occurs in pregnant women. Inadequate pregnancy spacing can contribute to the risk of anemia. This study aims to analyze the relationship between pregnancy spacing and the incidence of anemia in pregnant women. This type of research is observational analytic with a case-control design. This study was conducted from February to October 2024 at a selected health center in the region. The case-control design was chosen to investigate the causes of anemia during pregnancy, particularly focusing on the effects of pregnancy spacing. The number of samples used was 30 cases, while 30 control cases were selected by simple random sampling from a larger pool of eligible pregnant women. The analysis employed the chi-square test to determine the statistical significance of the relationship between pregnancy spacing and the incidence of anemia. Results showed that 21.7% of respondents had anemia, with a significantly higher prevalence in those with a pregnancy spacing of less than two years. After conducting the chi-square test, the result yielded a significant p-value of 0.002, indicating a strong association between short pregnancy intervals and anemia. This finding highlights the potential risks associated with inadequate pregnancy spacing, emphasizing the importance of family planning and prenatal care in preventing anemia in expectant mothers. The study suggests that adequate pregnancy spacing may reduce the incidence of anemia, thus promoting healthier pregnancy outcomes. Furthermore, it underscores the need for educational programs aimed at raising awareness of the benefits of proper pregnancy planning. Such initiatives would not only help prevent anemia but also improve maternal and fetal health. Comprehensive health policies promoting spacing between pregnancies can have long-term positive effects on maternal well-being.

It is crucial for individuals at all life stages—ranging from fetuses to the elderly—to receive proper nutrition for healthy development and well-being. During pregnancy, malnutrition can lead to abnormal physical development, impaired cognitive function, decreased work productivity, reduced immune resistance, and, ultimately, higher risks of illness and death. Women who maintain proper nutritional intake before conception can help prevent anemia, as the increased demand for iron during pregnancy may otherwise lead to deficiencies. This study aims to analyze the relationship between individual nutritional conditions and the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women during their second trimester in the work area of the Hikun Health Center, Tabalong Regency, South Kalimantan. The research utilized an observational analytical approach with a cross-sectional design. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted, where univariate analysis examined the distribution of individual variables, and bivariate analysis employed the chi-square method to assess the relationship between two variables. The findings indicated that non-ideal nutritional status was associated with a decrease in anemia cases by 80.0%. However, this association was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.317). The data analysis concluded that there was no significant effect between maternal nutrition and anemia levels in pregnant women at the Hikun Health Center. These results suggest that while nutritional status is a factor in anemia prevalence, other variables may also play a role, and further research is needed to explore potential contributing factors and to refine the understanding of how nutrition, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices impact anemia in pregnant women.

Implant contraception is one of the long-term birth control methods that is effective in preventing pregnancy. However, the use of implant contraception is often associated with side effects, one of which is weight gain. This weight gain can affect compliance and sustainability of the use of implant contraception in the community. Therefore, it is important to understand the relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain in acceptors in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Method: This study used a quantitative method with a cross-sectional design. The sample in this study were 30 respondents who were acceptors of implant contraception in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Data collection was carried out through interviews and weight measurements before and after using implant contraception. Data analysis was carried out using the chi-square test with a significance level of p <0.05. Results: The results showed that most respondents experienced weight gain after using implant contraception. Statistical analysis with the chi-square test produced a p-value = 0.009, which means that there is a significant relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the use of contraceptive implants and weight gain in acceptors in the Bolaang Mongondow area. This weight gain is likely caused by hormonal changes that occur due to the use of contraceptive implants. Suggestion: Further education is needed for prospective acceptors of contraceptive implants regarding possible side effects, including weight gain. In addition, health workers need to provide assistance and weight management strategies, such as education on healthy eating patterns and physical activity, to reduce the impact of contraceptive implant use.

Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality globally, including in Indonesia. It is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, which appear after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The pathophysiology of preeclampsia is closely linked to oxidative stress, which is caused by abnormal placentation. One promising alternative treatment for managing preeclampsia is the use of natural ingredients with antioxidant properties, such as mulberry leaves (Morus alba). These leaves contain flavonoids, such as rutin and quercetin, which are known to have antioxidant effects. This study aims to examine the effects of mulberry leaf extract on blood pressure and proteinuria levels in male Wistar rats, using a preeclampsia model. The study employed a true experimental post-test only control group design. A total of 25 pregnant rats were randomly divided into five groups: a negative control group, a positive control group (which was induced with suramin to model preeclampsia), and three treatment groups receiving mulberry leaf extract at doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kgBW. Blood pressure and proteinuria levels were measured before and after 6 days of treatment. The results indicated that mulberry leaf extract significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and markedly lowered proteinuria levels. A significant relationship was observed between blood pressure and proteinuria (r = 0.528; p = 0.008), suggesting that the reduction in blood pressure was associated with a decrease in proteinuria. These findings suggest that mulberry leaf extract may be a promising natural complementary therapy for alleviating symptoms of preeclampsia, offering an alternative treatment approach to help manage this serious pregnancy complication. Further studies are needed to explore its potential in clinical applications.

Anemia is a common condition among pregnant women, often caused by insufficient iron intake or poor absorption due to digestive issues. This condition can have serious implications for both maternal and fetal health. The primary objective of this study was to explore the relationship between pregnant women’s knowledge about iron tablets and their adherence to the prescribed regimen at Saritani Health Center. This study utilized a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The population for this study consisted of all pregnant women visiting Saritani Health Center, with a sample size of 78 women selected through purposive sampling, based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The study’s findings indicated that the majority of respondents had a sufficient level of knowledge regarding the importance of iron tablets. A statistical analysis using the Spearman Rank test revealed a very strong correlation between the level of knowledge about iron tablets and adherence to their consumption, with a correlation coefficient of rs = 0.812 and a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This suggests that the higher the level of knowledge about iron tablets among pregnant women, the greater their compliance with taking these supplements. The study also found that while most respondents had sufficient knowledge about iron tablets, their compliance was moderate, which highlights the importance of ongoing education and support. The results of this study emphasize the critical role that knowledge plays in improving compliance with iron supplementation among pregnant women. Health education initiatives targeting pregnant women should focus on increasing awareness and understanding of the benefits of iron supplementation to prevent anemia and its associated risks. This study calls for enhanced counseling and educational efforts at the community health level to ensure better maternal health outcomes.

Posyandu is a community-based health program managed by and for the community, aiming to strengthen local health systems and facilitate access to essential health services. The temporary disruption of Posyandu services during the COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and toddlers, highlighting the importance of resilient volunteer performance post-pandemic. This study aims to examine the correlation between post-pandemic competence and the implementation of the five main activities by Posyandu volunteers in Malang, Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative correlational research design, the study involved a total sample of 123 Posyandu volunteers from two villages in Malang. Data collection was conducted over July to August 2023. The findings indicate a statistically significant but weak positive correlation between volunteer knowledge and motivation, with a p-value of 0.007 and a correlation coefficient of 0.242. This suggests that while increased knowledge is associated with higher motivation levels, the strength of this relationship is limited. Further analysis assessed the relationship between length of service and volunteer motivation, revealing no significant correlation (p = 0.675, r = -0.038). These results imply that the duration of volunteer service does not influence motivational levels among Posyandu volunteers. Given these findings, enhancing volunteers’ knowledge through regular training and refresher programs is essential to maintain motivation and improve service delivery. The study recommends continuous capacity-building efforts to empower Posyandu volunteers, thereby ensuring effective implementation of health activities post-pandemic. Future research should investigate additional factors that may affect volunteer motivation, such as social support, recognition, and workload. Understanding these dimensions can further strengthen Posyandu programs and support the vulnerable community members they serve.

Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual discomfort that begins during menarche and is not associated with any underlying pelvic pathological disorders. It is a common condition that can significantly affect daily activities and lower the quality of life. The pain often associated with dysmenorrhea may be alleviated by improving blood circulation and utilizing pleasant aromas. One of the most widespread gynecological conditions, dysmenorrhea affects women of all ages and is frequently characterized by painful menstruation. Aromatherapy, particularly with lavender flowers, has been traditionally used to treat a variety of conditions including pain, postpartum depression, anxiety, and discomfort following cesarean sections. It has also been used to reduce dysmenorrhea. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 90% of women experience some form of dysmenorrhea, with 10–15% of these cases classified as severe. Pain management strategies for dysmenorrhea can be categorized into pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological methods, with aromatherapy being one of the prominent non-pharmacological techniques. This study aimed to assess the impact of lavender flower aromatherapy (Lavandula angustifolia) on the severity of dysmenorrhea in teenage females residing in Iloheluma Village, Patilanggio District, Pohuwato Regency. A quantitative, quasi-experimental approach was utilized in this research, employing a purposeful sampling method. The severity of dysmenorrhea discomfort before and after the lavender aromatherapy sessions was evaluated using the paired t-test. Of the respondents, 55% were aged 15–19 years. Prior to the aromatherapy treatment, 100% of participants reported moderate pain intensity. Following the aromatherapy session, the most common pain level reported by the participants (100%) was mild pain. These results suggest that lavender flower aromatherapy has a significant effect in reducing the severity of dysmenorrhea and can be considered an effective non-pharmacological intervention for menstrual discomfort.

It is crucial for individuals at all life stages—ranging from fetuses to the elderly—to receive proper nutrition for healthy development and well-being. During pregnancy, malnutrition can lead to abnormal physical development, impaired cognitive function, decreased work productivity, reduced immune resistance, and, ultimately, higher risks of illness and death. Women who maintain proper nutritional intake before conception can help prevent anemia, as the increased demand for iron during pregnancy may otherwise lead to deficiencies. This study aims to analyze the relationship between individual nutritional conditions and the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women during their second trimester in the work area of the Hikun Health Center, Tabalong Regency, South Kalimantan. The research utilized an observational analytical approach with a cross-sectional design. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted, where univariate analysis examined the distribution of individual variables, and bivariate analysis employed the chi-square method to assess the relationship between two variables. The findings indicated that non-ideal nutritional status was associated with a decrease in anemia cases by 80.0%. However, this association was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.317). The data analysis concluded that there was no significant effect between maternal nutrition and anemia levels in pregnant women at the Hikun Health Center. These results suggest that while nutritional status is a factor in anemia prevalence, other variables may also play a role, and further research is needed to explore potential contributing factors and to refine the understanding of how nutrition, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices impact anemia in pregnant women.

Implant contraception is one of the long-term birth control methods that is effective in preventing pregnancy. However, the use of implant contraception is often associated with side effects, one of which is weight gain. This weight gain can affect compliance and sustainability of the use of implant contraception in the community. Therefore, it is important to understand the relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain in acceptors in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Method: This study used a quantitative method with a cross-sectional design. The sample in this study were 30 respondents who were acceptors of implant contraception in the Bolaang Mongondow area. Data collection was carried out through interviews and weight measurements before and after using implant contraception. Data analysis was carried out using the chi-square test with a significance level of p <0.05. Results: The results showed that most respondents experienced weight gain after using implant contraception. Statistical analysis with the chi-square test produced a p-value = 0.009, which means that there is a significant relationship between the use of implant contraception and weight gain. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the use of contraceptive implants and weight gain in acceptors in the Bolaang Mongondow area. This weight gain is likely caused by hormonal changes that occur due to the use of contraceptive implants. Suggestion: Further education is needed for prospective acceptors of contraceptive implants regarding possible side effects, including weight gain. In addition, health workers need to provide assistance and weight management strategies, such as education on healthy eating patterns and physical activity, to reduce the impact of contraceptive implant use.

Low exclusive breastfeeding rates are often linked to the widespread use of formula milk in infants. Formula feeding cannot replace colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, which is crucial for providing infants with essential nutrients and immunity. Without colostrum, infants are at increased risk of developing diarrhea, septicemia, meningitis, and other serious health complications. Additionally, formula milk may lead to protein intolerance, which often results in allergies among infants. This study aims to identify the factors associated with formula feeding in infants aged 0-6 months. The study employed an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design, involving 55 mothers with infants aged 0-6 months. Participants were selected using accidental sampling. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square statistical test. The univariate analysis revealed that the majority of respondents (56.4%) had good knowledge of infant feeding practices, while 30.9% had a junior high school education. Most respondents (76.4%) were not employed, and 56.4% of mothers reported giving formula milk to their infants. The bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and formula feeding practices, but no significant relationship was found between the mother's education level or employment status and the use of formula milk. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare workers play a more active role in providing education, information, and motivation to mothers, helping them understand the benefits and advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. By increasing maternal knowledge and addressing misconceptions, healthcare workers can contribute to improving exclusive breastfeeding rates and reducing the unnecessary use of formula feeding.

Stunting is a major health concern in many developing countries, including Indonesia, with profound long-term effects on children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. This condition is primarily influenced by factors such as malnutrition, infections, and inadequate care during the first few years of life. The objective of this study was to analyze the factors associated with stunting in children under five years old within the working area of Puskesmas Tilamuta. An analytical survey design was employed, using a cross-sectional approach to examine 54 children, who were selected using accidental sampling. Data collection involved assessing factors such as exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding practices (MP-ASI), and low birth weight (BBLR). Statistical analysis was conducted using the Chi-Square test with Fisher's exact test to determine the association between these factors and stunting. The results revealed that exclusive breastfeeding had a significant impact on the occurrence of stunting, with a p-value of 0.002, suggesting that children who were exclusively breastfed were less likely to experience stunting. Similarly, the provision of complementary feeding (MP-ASI) was significantly associated with stunting (p = 0.043), highlighting the importance of timely and adequate complementary feeding to prevent stunting. However, the factor of low birth weight (BBLR) was found to have no significant effect on stunting (p = 0.202), indicating that other factors, such as nutrition and feeding practices, may have a more direct influence on stunting in the studied population. This study underscores the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding and proper complementary feeding practices in preventing stunting. It also suggests that addressing these factors, along with other local health interventions, may help reduce the incidence of stunting in children under five years old in the area.

The nutritional status of pregnant women, assessed using the Upper Arm Circumference (LILA), plays a crucial role in fetal growth and birth outcomes. Inadequate maternal nutrition can lead to low birth weight, which increases the risk of stunting a condition characterized by a height-for-age (TB/U) less than -2 SD. Stunting is associated with a fourfold increase in child mortality under five years old, highlighting its significant impact on public health. This quantitative case-control study aimed to examine the relationship between maternal nutritional status during pregnancy and the incidence of stunting in toddlers. The study was conducted from August 25, 2024, to January 24, 2025, at Gogagoman Health Center in Kotamobagu City. A total of 60 toddlers participated, with 30 stunted toddlers (case group) and 30 non-stunted toddlers (control group). Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires, medical records, and microtoise measurements. The study employed univariate and bivariate data analysis, using a chi-square test to explore the association between maternal nutritional status and stunting incidence. The results indicated that the majority of respondents had adequate (non-KEK) maternal nutritional status. Specifically, 40% of mothers in the stunted group were classified as non-KEK, while 83.3% of mothers in the non-stunted group were in the same category. A statistically significant association was found between maternal nutritional status and the incidence of stunting, with a p-value of 0.010. These findings underscore the importance of improving maternal nutrition to prevent stunting and its associated risks. The study recommends collaborative efforts between health centers and local governments to provide targeted nutrition education and support for pregnant women and women of reproductive age, aiming to reduce stunting incidence and improve child health outcomes.

Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual discomfort that begins during menarche and is not associated with any underlying pelvic pathological disorders. It is a common condition that can significantly affect daily activities and lower the quality of life. The pain often associated with dysmenorrhea may be alleviated by improving blood circulation and utilizing pleasant aromas. One of the most widespread gynecological conditions, dysmenorrhea affects women of all ages and is frequently characterized by painful menstruation. Aromatherapy, particularly with lavender flowers, has been traditionally used to treat a variety of conditions including pain, postpartum depression, anxiety, and discomfort following cesarean sections. It has also been used to reduce dysmenorrhea. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 90% of women experience some form of dysmenorrhea, with 10–15% of these cases classified as severe. Pain management strategies for dysmenorrhea can be categorized into pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological methods, with aromatherapy being one of the prominent non-pharmacological techniques. This study aimed to assess the impact of lavender flower aromatherapy (Lavandula angustifolia) on the severity of dysmenorrhea in teenage females residing in Iloheluma Village, Patilanggio District, Pohuwato Regency. A quantitative, quasi-experimental approach was utilized in this research, employing a purposeful sampling method. The severity of dysmenorrhea discomfort before and after the lavender aromatherapy sessions was evaluated using the paired t-test. Of the respondents, 55% were aged 15–19 years. Prior to the aromatherapy treatment, 100% of participants reported moderate pain intensity. Following the aromatherapy session, the most common pain level reported by the participants (100%) was mild pain. These results suggest that lavender flower aromatherapy has a significant effect in reducing the severity of dysmenorrhea and can be considered an effective non-pharmacological intervention for menstrual discomfort.

Low exclusive breastfeeding rates are often linked to the widespread use of formula milk in infants. Formula feeding cannot replace colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, which is crucial for providing infants with essential nutrients and immunity. Without colostrum, infants are at increased risk of developing diarrhea, septicemia, meningitis, and other serious health complications. Additionally, formula milk may lead to protein intolerance, which often results in allergies among infants. This study aims to identify the factors associated with formula feeding in infants aged 0-6 months. The study employed an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design, involving 55 mothers with infants aged 0-6 months. Participants were selected using accidental sampling. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square statistical test. The univariate analysis revealed that the majority of respondents (56.4%) had good knowledge of infant feeding practices, while 30.9% had a junior high school education. Most respondents (76.4%) were not employed, and 56.4% of mothers reported giving formula milk to their infants. The bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and formula feeding practices, but no significant relationship was found between the mother's education level or employment status and the use of formula milk. Based on these findings, it is recommended that healthcare workers play a more active role in providing education, information, and motivation to mothers, helping them understand the benefits and advantages of exclusive breastfeeding. By increasing maternal knowledge and addressing misconceptions, healthcare workers can contribute to improving exclusive breastfeeding rates and reducing the unnecessary use of formula feeding.