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Back pain is a common complaint among pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester, due to physiological changes such as increased body weight, shifting of the body’s center of gravity, and hormonal influences that loosen ligaments, as well as biomechanical changes in posture and gait. If not managed properly, back pain can negatively affect maternal comfort, mobility, and quality of life during pregnancy. One non-pharmacological method that has been shown to alleviate such discomfort is prenatal massage, which aims to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. This study aims to determine the effect of prenatal massage on back pain in third-trimester pregnancy at PHC Bulango. A quantitative approach was applied using a pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design. A total of 30 pregnant women in their third trimester participated as respondents, selected based on inclusion criteria. Data were collected through observation and structured interviews using a standardized pain scale to measure back pain intensity before and after the intervention. Prenatal massage was administered following recommended maternal health protocols to ensure safety and comfort. Data analysis was performed using the paired t-test to compare mean pain scores before and after the intervention. The results showed a statistically significant reduction in pain levels, with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating that prenatal massage had a meaningful effect in alleviating back pain among participants. The findings support the conclusion that prenatal massage is an effective, safe, and easily applicable non-pharmacological intervention for reducing back pain in third-trimester pregnant women. Based on these results, prenatal massage can be recommended as a complementary practice in antenatal care services to enhance maternal comfort and well-being during pregnancy, alongside other supportive health interventions.

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.

Back pain is a common complaint among pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester, due to physiological changes such as increased body weight, shifting of the body’s center of gravity, and hormonal influences that loosen ligaments, as well as biomechanical changes in posture and gait. If not managed properly, back pain can negatively affect maternal comfort, mobility, and quality of life during pregnancy. One non-pharmacological method that has been shown to alleviate such discomfort is prenatal massage, which aims to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. This study aims to determine the effect of prenatal massage on back pain in third-trimester pregnancy at PHC Bulango. A quantitative approach was applied using a pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design. A total of 30 pregnant women in their third trimester participated as respondents, selected based on inclusion criteria. Data were collected through observation and structured interviews using a standardized pain scale to measure back pain intensity before and after the intervention. Prenatal massage was administered following recommended maternal health protocols to ensure safety and comfort. Data analysis was performed using the paired t-test to compare mean pain scores before and after the intervention. The results showed a statistically significant reduction in pain levels, with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating that prenatal massage had a meaningful effect in alleviating back pain among participants. The findings support the conclusion that prenatal massage is an effective, safe, and easily applicable non-pharmacological intervention for reducing back pain in third-trimester pregnant women. Based on these results, prenatal massage can be recommended as a complementary practice in antenatal care services to enhance maternal comfort and well-being during pregnancy, alongside other supportive health interventions.

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.

Bacground : The 0–12 month period is a critical phase in infant development, covering motor, cognitive, and emotional domains. Early stimulation has been proven to prevent developmental delays that may affect later life stages. Complementary therapies such as infant massage and baby gym are widely applied as non-pharmacological, safe, low-cost interventions that can be practiced at home by parents. Objective: To systematically review the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of complementary therapies in stimulating the development of infants aged 0–12 months. Methods: This literature study involved a review of articles published between 2018–2024 from PubMed and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria included experimental and quasi-experimental studies evaluating the effect of complementary therapies (infant massage, baby gym, or others) on infant development. Results: Six relevant studies were identified, including four on baby gym and two on infant massage. All studies reported significant improvements in gross motor development following intervention. Infant massage also showed additional benefits such as increased weight gain and enhanced mother-infant bonding. Conclusion: Complementary therapies such as infant massage and baby gym are effective and practical strategies for stimulating infant development. However, further research with more robust experimental designs is needed to strengthen the evidence base.  

Picky eating is a prevalent issue among preschool children, often leading to nutritional deficiencies, disrupted growth, and increased parental stress. This systematic literature review aims to explore the management of picky eating through complementary and alternative therapies (CAT) and compares these findings with contemporary interventions. Picky eating behaviors can significantly affect children’s eating patterns, leading to challenges in maintaining a balanced diet. Although traditional medical interventions focus on behavioral modification and nutritional counseling, many parents are seeking alternative approaches to manage these behaviors in a more holistic and natural manner. This review encompasses studies published between 2015 and 2025, sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "Alternative Therapy," "Picky Eating," and "Preschool Children." The review population consists of 20 articles, and the sample includes 5 selected studies that meet the criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of complementary and alternative therapies in managing picky eating behaviors. Data analysis utilized thematic analysis, with the findings analyzed thematically to draw conclusions regarding the efficacy of CAT. The results indicated that mindfulness practices, dietary practices, Tuina massage as a traditional therapy, taste exposure, sensory learning, and nutrition education were all effective in reducing picky eating behavior among children aged 1 to 5 years. These approaches not only helped to improve children’s acceptance of a wider variety of foods but also contributed to the reduction of stress for both children and parents. The findings suggest that integrating these alternative therapies into conventional practices can provide a comprehensive and effective strategy to address picky eating in preschool children. Future research is needed to further explore the long-term impacts of these therapies and to identify the most suitable combinations for different individual needs.

Picky eating is a prevalent issue among preschool children, often leading to nutritional deficiencies, disrupted growth, and increased parental stress. This systematic literature review aims to explore the management of picky eating through complementary and alternative therapies (CAT) and compares these findings with contemporary interventions. Picky eating behaviors can significantly affect children’s eating patterns, leading to challenges in maintaining a balanced diet. Although traditional medical interventions focus on behavioral modification and nutritional counseling, many parents are seeking alternative approaches to manage these behaviors in a more holistic and natural manner. This review encompasses studies published between 2015 and 2025, sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "Alternative Therapy," "Picky Eating," and "Preschool Children." The review population consists of 20 articles, and the sample includes 5 selected studies that meet the criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of complementary and alternative therapies in managing picky eating behaviors. Data analysis utilized thematic analysis, with the findings analyzed thematically to draw conclusions regarding the efficacy of CAT. The results indicated that mindfulness practices, dietary practices, Tuina massage as a traditional therapy, taste exposure, sensory learning, and nutrition education were all effective in reducing picky eating behavior among children aged 1 to 5 years. These approaches not only helped to improve children’s acceptance of a wider variety of foods but also contributed to the reduction of stress for both children and parents. The findings suggest that integrating these alternative therapies into conventional practices can provide a comprehensive and effective strategy to address picky eating in preschool children. Future research is needed to further explore the long-term impacts of these therapies and to identify the most suitable combinations for different individual needs.

Back pain is one of the most common complaints experienced by pregnant women, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy. This discomfort is generally caused by physiological and biomechanical changes in the body, such as an increase in body weight, a shift in the center of gravity, and hormonal changes that affect muscle and joint flexibility. If not managed properly, back pain can reduce mobility, interfere with daily activities, and impact the quality of life of pregnant women. One safe and non-pharmacological method to reduce back pain is prenatal massage therapy. This study aimed to determine the effect of prenatal massage on reducing back pain among pregnant women in the third trimester at Primary Health Care (PHC) Bulango. This research used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The sample consisted of 30 pregnant women in their third trimester who were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out using observation and interviews with a numerical pain rating scale administered before and after the prenatal massage intervention. The massage sessions were performed following standardized prenatal massage procedures focusing on the lower back area. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test with the assistance of SPSS software. The results showed a statistically significant difference in back pain scores before and after the intervention, with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This finding indicates that prenatal massage effectively reduces back pain in third-trimester pregnant women. Based on these results, prenatal massage can be recommended as a safe, non-invasive, and beneficial complementary therapy to improve maternal comfort during pregnancy. Incorporating prenatal massage into routine antenatal care could enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of expectant mothers.

Back pain is one of the most common complaints experienced by pregnant women, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy. This discomfort is generally caused by physiological and biomechanical changes in the body, such as an increase in body weight, a shift in the center of gravity, and hormonal changes that affect muscle and joint flexibility. If not managed properly, back pain can reduce mobility, interfere with daily activities, and impact the quality of life of pregnant women. One safe and non-pharmacological method to reduce back pain is prenatal massage therapy. This study aimed to determine the effect of prenatal massage on reducing back pain among pregnant women in the third trimester at Primary Health Care (PHC) Bulango. This research used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The sample consisted of 30 pregnant women in their third trimester who were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out using observation and interviews with a numerical pain rating scale administered before and after the prenatal massage intervention. The massage sessions were performed following standardized prenatal massage procedures focusing on the lower back area. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test with the assistance of SPSS software. The results showed a statistically significant difference in back pain scores before and after the intervention, with a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). This finding indicates that prenatal massage effectively reduces back pain in third-trimester pregnant women. Based on these results, prenatal massage can be recommended as a safe, non-invasive, and beneficial complementary therapy to improve maternal comfort during pregnancy. Incorporating prenatal massage into routine antenatal care could enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of expectant mothers.

The 0–12 month period is a critical phase in infant development, covering motor, cognitive, and emotional domains. Early stimulation has been proven to prevent developmental delays that may affect later life stages. Complementary therapies such as infant massage and baby gym are widely applied as non-pharmacological, safe, low-cost interventions that can be practiced at home by parents. To systematically review the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of complementary therapies in stimulating the development of infants aged 0–12 months. This literature study involved a review of articles published between 2018–2024 from PubMed and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria included experimental and quasi-experimental studies evaluating the effect of complementary therapies (infant massage, baby gym, or others) on infant development. Six relevant studies were identified, including four on baby gym and two on infant massage. All studies reported significant improvements in gross motor development following intervention. Infant massage also showed additional benefits such as increased weight gain and enhanced mother-infant bonding. Complementary therapies such as infant massage and baby gym are effective and practical strategies for stimulating infant development. However, further research with more robust experimental designs is needed to strengthen the evidence base.

Anemia is a common health issue among adolescent girls, primarily due to increased iron demands during growth and menstruation. This literature study aims to synthesize existing research on complementary therapies for managing anemia in this population. The study employed a literature review design with a systematic search of scientific articles published between 2018 and 2025. Data were collected from multiple electronic databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "anemia," "adolescent girls," "complementary therapy," "iron deficiency," "herbal medicine," and "nutritional intervention." Only peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses published in English were included. The review found that natural interventions like Moringa oleifera leaf extract, beetroot juice, dates with lime juice, and educational programs are effective, affordable, and culturally acceptable for improving hemoglobin levels and anemia prevention. However, many studies have limitations such as small sample sizes and short intervention durations. Future research should focus on more rigorous designs with larger samples and longer follow-ups. Combining nutritional supplementation with health education offers a promising holistic approach to managing anemia in adolescent girls.

Anemia during pregnancy remains a significant global health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Iron (Fe) tablets are the standard treatment, but alternative natural supplements such as pure honey may enhance hemoglobin levels through their nutritional and antioxidant properties. This study aims to  analyze the effectiveness of pure honey combined with Fe tablets on hemoglobin levels among pregnant women with anemia at TPMB Choirul Mala, Palembang. This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest control group design. A total of 30 pregnant women with anemia were selected through purposive sampling from a population of 66 who attended ANC visits between September and December 2024. Participants were divided equally into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received 2 tablespoons of certified pure honey and one 60 mg Fe tablet daily for 4 weeks, while the control group received only the Fe tablet. Hemoglobin levels were measured before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon and Mann–Whitney tests. The intervention group showed a significant increase in mean hemoglobin level from 9.2 g/dL to 10.8 g/dL (p = 0.002), while the control group increased from 9.0 g/dL to 10.4 g/dL (p = 0.004). The difference in hemoglobin increase between groups was statistically significant (p = 0.041). The combination of pure honey and Fe tablets is more effective in increasing hemoglobin levels than Fe tablets alone. Pure honey may serve as a beneficial complementary therapy in managing anemia during pregnancy.

Perineal wounds are a common condition experienced by postpartum mothers following vaginal delivery and may lead to complications if not properly managed. Optimal wound care is essential to accelerate healing and prevent infection. One potential complementary therapy is boiled binahong leaves (Anredera cordifolia), which are known to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue regeneration properties. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of binahong leaf decoction on perineal wound healing in postpartum mothers. This study employed a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach involving 52 postpartum mothers in the Sagulung District, Batam City, from October to December 2024. Samples were selected using purposive sampling. The REEDA scale was used to assess wound healing, and data were analyzed using a paired t-test. The results showed that the mean perineal wound score decreased from 9.2 ± 2.1 before the intervention to 3.8 ± 1.5 after the intervention. Statistical analysis revealed a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant difference before and after the intervention. In conclusion, boiled binahong leaf decoction is effective in accelerating perineal wound healing in postpartum mothers. This therapy has the potential to be an accessible, cost-effective, and practical complementary treatment in midwifery practice.

One of the complementary therapy treatments that can be used for independent and natural interventions is foot hydrotherapy (warm water foot soak). Warm water foot soak therapy plus a mixture of salt is useful for blood pressure lowering therapy in hypertension. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of warm water foot soak therapy with a mixture of salt on lowering blood pressure in elderly hypertensive patients. The type of research is Quasy-experiment using one group pretest posttest design. The number of samples was 16 respondents taken using the Purposive Sampling technique. The results of the study showed that the average blood pressure before the warm water foot soak therapy with a mixture of salt was systolic 169.62 mmHg and diastolic 102.25 mmHg. The average blood pressure after the warm water foot soak therapy with a mixture of salt was systolic 143.12 mmHg and diastolic 91.88 mmHg. The results of the statistical test showed that there was an effect of warm water foot soak therapy mixed with salt on reducing blood pressure in elderly hypertensive patients in the Siulak Mukai Health Center Work Area in 2024 (p-value = 0.001).

Perineal wounds are a common condition experienced by postpartum mothers after vaginal delivery and can potentially cause pain, discomfort, and the risk of infection if not properly cared for. Effective, safe, and culturally appropriate perineal wound care is a crucial need in postpartum care, especially at the primary health care level. Green betel leaves (Piper betle L.) are known to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to support the wound healing process. This study aims to analyze the effect of green betel leaf water baths on the perineal wound healing process in postpartum mothers in the Sikui Community Health Center (UPT) work area. This study used a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The study was conducted in June–July 2025 with 18 postpartum mothers with grade I and II perineal wounds as respondents. Wound condition assessment before intervention was carried out using the REEDA instrument as a baseline condition, while healing results were evaluated based on clinical outcomes and the duration of perineal wound healing. Data analysis was conducted descriptively. The results showed that all respondents experienced clinical perineal wound healing after the green betel leaf water bath intervention. The majority of postpartum mothers experienced wound healing in less than one week, with a median healing time of 5.5 days. In conclusion, green betel leaf water bath has the potential to support the perineal wound healing process in postpartum mothers. This intervention can be considered a safe, easy-to-implement, and relevant complementary therapy for integration into postpartum care in primary healthcare settings.

Background: Dysmenorrhea is often experienced by women, the impact of untreated dysmenorrhea can interfere with daily activities. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of giving warm compresses to the abdomen on dysmenorrhea pain. Method: The quasi-experimental research method with the Pretest-Postest Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The population in this study were all female students at SMP Negeri 10 Denpasar totaling 547 students with a purposive sampling technique using the slovin formula. Result: The results of the Wilcoxon test on the pretest-posttest of the treatment group obtained a value of P = 0.0003 <0.05, meaning that there was a difference in the dysmenorrhea pain score before and after being given warm compresses to the abdomen and health education in the treatment group. The results of the next Wilcoxon test on the pretest-posttest of the control group obtained a value of P = 0.066> 0.05, meaning that there was no difference before and after health education in the control group. The results of the Man Whitney test on dysmenorrhea pain scores after being given Warm Compress Abdomen and Health Education in the Treatment and Control Groups obtained P = 0.000 <0.05 indicating that there is an effect of Warm Compress Abdomen and Health Education on dysmenorrhea pain. Conclusion: Warm abdominal compress therapy and health education are effective methods to reduce dysmenorrhea pain in adolescent girls. It is recommended that adolescent girls can apply warm compresses as an effort to reduce menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) with complementary therapy both in the school environment and at home.

Hypertension is one of the chronic diseases suffered by many people in Indonesia, including in the Kebondalem Health Center area, Pemalang District. In its treatment, some patients choose to use herbal medicine as a complementary therapy in addition to medical treatment. However, patients' understanding of the benefits and risks of using herbal medicine is still not fully known. Objective: This study aims to examine the level of knowledge of hypertensive patients regarding the benefits and risks of using herbal medicine as a complementary therapy at the Kebondalem Health Center, Pemalang District. Method: This study uses a descriptive method with a quantitative approach. The research sample was hypertensive patients who visited the Kebondalem Health Center and met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected through a validated closed questionnaire, then analyzed descriptively. Results: The results showed that most patients had a moderate level of knowledge regarding the benefits of herbal medicine, but were still low in understanding the risks that might arise from using it simultaneously with medical drugs. Some patients also still believe in myths related to herbal medicine without a strong scientific basis.

Background: Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition of excessive nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy that can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and a reduced quality of life for pregnant women. Lavender aromatherapy, as a non-pharmacological intervention, has the potential to reduce the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum through its relaxing and anxiolytic effects. Objective: This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy in reducing hyperemesis gravidarum in first trimester pregnant women at Toto Kabila Regional Hospital. Methods: This study used a pre-experimental design with purposive sampling technique involving 30 respondents in the first trimester of pregnancy who experienced hyperemesis gravidarum. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality and a paired t-test to compare hyperemesis scores before and after lavender aromatherapy administration. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in hyperemesis scores from an average of 10.40 ± 2.85 before the intervention to 6.30 ± 2.10 after the intervention with a mean difference of 4.10 points and a p value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). There was a category shift where 56.7% of respondents were in the mild category after the intervention compared to only 13.3% before the intervention. Conclusion: Lavender aromatherapy is effective as a complementary intervention in reducing the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum in pregnant women in the first trimester and can be recommended as part of a holistic approach in midwifery care.

Emesis gravidarum, or nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy, is common and affects the health and comfort of first-trimester pregnant women. Persistent symptoms can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, reduced nutrient intake, and psychological distress, potentially impacting maternal and fetal health. Although pharmacological treatments exist, many pregnant women prefer non-pharmacological methods due to concerns about fetal safety. Aromatherapy, using essential oils such as lemon, peppermint, and lavender, has been explored as a complementary therapy to reduce nausea and vomiting through olfactory stimulation and autonomic nervous system modulation. This study aimed to assess the effect of aromatherapy on reducing emesis gravidarum in first-trimester pregnant women at Puskesmas Pagatan. A quasi-experimental design with pretest-posttest control group was employed, involving 40 participants divided into an intervention group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). The intervention group received lemon essential oil inhalation twice daily for seven days, while the control group continued standard antenatal care. Results showed significant reductions in nausea severity and vomiting frequency in the intervention group (p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group showed minimal, non-significant changes. These findings suggest that aromatherapy is an effective, safe, and culturally acceptable non-pharmacological approach for managing emesis gravidarum, enhancing maternal comfort and well-being during early pregnancy.

: Coughs and colds in babies and toddlers can be caused by many factors. Most of the causes are viruses. Treatment for acute coughs and colds can be done in 2 ways, namely pharmacological and non-pharmacological. Non-pharmacological treatment can be complementary therapy or common cold therapy, which is a relaxation therapy to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression in respiratory tract disorders. The aim of this activity is to increase mothers' knowledge about how to do Common Cold massage for non-pharmacological treatment of coughs and colds. Community service activities are carried out to increase students' knowledge about the impact of early marriage. Community service activities are carried out using the lecture (counseling) method and practicing the Common Cold massage method. Before and after counseling students were given pre-test and post-test questionnaires. As a result of this activity, mothers' knowledge before counseling was in the good category was 5 people (26.3%) and after counseling, knowledge in the good category increased to 17 people (89.5%). This shows that there is an increase in mothers' knowledge about Common Cold massage therapy after the counseling was carried out.