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Breast milk (ASI) is the primary and natural food for newborns, providing the necessary energy and nutrients from birth to six months of life, promoting optimal growth and development. However, according to information obtained, about 30% of mothers face challenges in breastfeeding, particularly during the first few days after delivery. To address this issue, interventions such as breast care and oxytocin massage can stimulate breast milk production and prevent issues like mastitis. Oxytocin massage helps stimulate the milk ejection reflex, while breast care ensures the cleanliness of the breasts, making it easier for the baby to latch. The aim of this community service activity is to enhance mothers' knowledge through an educational program focused on oxytocin massage and breast care to improve milk production in postpartum mothers. The method used for this activity is an interactive educational session using tools like PowerPoint and leaflets, followed by a Q&A session and discussion. The evaluation was conducted through oral questioning, as well as by observing participants' enthusiasm during the session. The expected outcome of this activity is to provide mothers with practical knowledge and skills on breast care and stimulating breast milk production, ultimately supporting successful exclusive breastfeeding.

Anomalous positioning is an abnormal position of the fetal vertex (with the small fontanelle as a marker) relative to the maternal pelvis. Oblique malposition is a cause of maternal mortality rate (MMR) of 3-10%. Obesity in pregnancy is a condition characterized by an imbalance between body weight and height. According to WHO data, the prevalence of obesity in 2021 was 340 million, with data in Central Java province reaching 6.62%. In Brebes Regency, the figure was 20.51% (2019). In the Bumiayu Community Health Center, data on obesity in pregnant women reached 63 in 2022. This study aims to provide comprehensive midwifery care for pregnant women, childbirth, postpartum, newborns, and family planning for Mrs. N, 23, with malposition and obesity. This study used a qualitative descriptive method with a comprehensive case study approach. Based on the comprehensive midwifery care provided to Mrs. N, 23, with malposition and obesity, the pregnancy outcome was found to be grade I. Her gestational age was not commensurate with her gestational age. Delivery was performed by vaginal delivery. No problems were found during newborn care up to 28 days. No problems were found during the postpartum period. Mrs. N chose intrauterine contraception (IUD) during pregnancy, but her husband did not allow it due to religious reasons. Appropriate midwifery care during pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, postpartum care, and family planning is crucial for the health of both mother and baby. This allows early detection of risk factors, preventing potential complications, and reducing maternal and infant mortality.

          During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, as fetal development progresses, pregnant women often experience lower back pain. This condition not only causes discomfort but also affects daily activities and overall quality of life. One of the non-pharmacological approaches believed to reduce lower back pain is prenatal exercise. This study aims to evaluate the effect of pregnancy exercise on reducing lower back pain among pregnant women in the second and third trimesters. This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-post test approach without a control group. The sample consisted of 28 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters who met the inclusion criteria and reported experiencing lower back pain. Pain levels were assessed before and after the intervention using a valid and reliable pain scale. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, particularly the paired sample t-test. The findings revealed that the mean pain score before the intervention was 3.32 with a standard deviation of 0.772. After the intervention, the mean pain score decreased to 2.25 with a standard deviation of 1.005. Results of the paired t-test indicated a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), demonstrating a significant difference in pain levels before and after pregnancy exercise. These results indicate that pregnancy exercise is effective in reducing lower back pain in women during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Therefore, prenatal exercise can be recommended as a safe, simple, and beneficial non-pharmacological intervention in midwifery care. It is expected that this study provides scientific evidence supporting the role of pregnancy exercise in improving maternal comfort and quality of life throughout pregnancy.

Trace elements such as copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium play essential roles in various enzymatic reactions, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and overall metabolic regulation, making them crucial for maternal and fetal health. During pregnancy, the demand for these micronutrients increases significantly due to physiological changes and the needs of the developing fetus. Inadequate or excessive levels of these trace elements can lead to altered fetal development and may impact neonatal outcomes immediately after birth. Given the sensitive developmental window of gestation, the intrauterine environment—including micronutrient status—has been hypothesized to influence neonatal physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and Apgar scores, which are commonly used to assess neonatal wellbeing in the early minutes of life. This study attempts to explore the impact of maternal trace element status—specifically copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium—along with selected maternal parameters (BMI, parity, gravida) on indicators of neonatal wellbeing, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and 5-minute Apgar score. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Delivery Room of the Obstetric Hospital in Al-Diwaniya City, Iraq, involving 50 mother-infant pairs. Data collection occurred from December 1, 2024, to February 10, 2025. Maternal blood samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine serum concentrations of copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium. Neonatal outcomes were assessed via standard clinical evaluations: heart rate and respiratory rate were measured immediately postpartum, and Apgar scores were recorded at five minutes. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression to assess associations between maternal factors and neonatal outcomes. Bivariate and multivariate analyses indicated limited but noteworthy associations. Maternal serum chromium levels were significantly associated with increased neonatal respiratory rate (p = 0.026), suggesting a possible stimulatory or stress-related effect.

Breech presentation is a condition in which the fetus is in an elongated position with the head at the uterine fundus and the buttocks in the lower part of the uterine cavity. This condition can increase the risk of labor complications, especially if accompanied by serotinus (post-term pregnancy). Based on data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health (2021), the maternal mortality rate caused by breech presentation and serotinus in Indonesia was recorded at 1,309 cases. In Central Java, the incidence of breech presentation reached 11.5% (Central Java Health Office, 2021). This study aims to determine the implementation of comprehensive midwifery care for Mrs. D, aged 24 years, with breech presentation and serotinus at Mrs. S's PMB in the Kaliwadas Community Health Center area in 2023. The research method used a qualitative descriptive design with a case study approach. Data collection was carried out through interviews, observations, physical examinations, documentation studies, and medical record searches. The results of midwifery care showed that during pregnancy, Mrs. D had a good quality of life. Mrs. D underwent three antenatal care (ANC) visits, during which signs of pregnancy complications suggestive of serotinus were detected. Delivery was performed via cesarean section due to serotinus and breech presentation. During the neonatal period, three visits were conducted, with the baby's examination results within normal limits. During the postpartum period, four visits were conducted, during which the mother's condition was generally good, but at the third postpartum visit, problems with breastfeeding were discovered. Mrs. D was also known not to be using postpartum contraception. The results of this study emphasize the importance of early detection and appropriate management of breech presentation and serotinus pregnancies to prevent complications that endanger the mother and baby. Comprehensive midwifery care covering pregnancy, labor, postpartum, and newborn care is an integral effort to ensure the safety of mothers and babies.  

The Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) are critical indicators in assessing the quality of public health services. In 2024, both MMR and IMR in Lamongan Regency remained relatively high, indicating the need for strengthened health interventions. Health workers, especially midwives, play a vital role in improving maternal and child health. One of the government’s strategies to reduce maternal and infant mortality is expanding midwife service coverage at primary health facilities and ensuring the presence of village midwives as the frontline providers across the region. Village midwives are expected to meet established service standards to ensure the quality of maternal and child health care. Service effectiveness and efficiency are commonly measured through indicators such as first antenatal visit coverage (K1), fourth antenatal visit coverage (K4), postpartum visit coverage (KF3), and delivery assistance by health workers. However, in Lamongan Regency, the performance of village midwives has not been optimal, with several indicators falling short of set performance targets.This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the quality of work life and the performance of village midwives in Lamongan Regency in 2025. The research used a quantitative method with a cross-sectional study design. The study population comprised all village midwives in Lamongan Regency, with a sample of 80 respondents selected randomly. The independent variable in this study was the quality of work life, while the dependent variable was village midwife performance. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using the chi-square statistical test. The results showed no significant relationship between the quality of work life and the performance of village midwives in Lamongan Regency in 2025. These findings suggest that other factors beyond work life quality may influence midwives’ performance.  

This study aims to examine the implementation of the selapanan tradition among Javanese postpartum women in Limau Manis Village, and to understand the meaning and community perceptions of this practice in the context of modern life. The selapanan tradition is part of local wisdom that has been passed down from generation to generation and has important value in postpartum maternal care. This study uses a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach, which allows researchers to understand cultural practices in depth through direct interaction with the community. Data collection techniques include participant observation, in-depth interviews with mothers who practice the tradition, community leaders, and traditional birth attendants, as well as documentation and field notes. The results show that selapanan is still preserved and practiced by the people of Limau Manis Village, although it has undergone several forms of adaptation to modern developments and modern medical guidelines. In its implementation, this tradition uses various natural ingredients such as parem (traditional body scrub), pilis (forehead concoction to refresh the eyes and mind), bengkungan (cloth to wrap the stomach), gerita (a kind of stagen or body binder), and the consumption of herbal medicine as part of physical care and body recovery. In addition to its physical aspects, selapanan also has a psychological dimension, providing emotional comfort and social support to postpartum mothers, thereby helping to prevent psychological disorders such as baby blues syndrome. This tradition serves not only as a form of traditional healthcare but also as a symbol of social solidarity and respect for local cultural values. Amidst the tide of modernization, preserving selapanan is crucial as a cultural identity that remains relevant. This study concludes that despite adjustments to medical developments, the selapanan tradition continues to play a significant role in maintaining maternal well-being and strengthening Javanese cultural values in the modern era.

Breast milk (ASI) is the most perfect source of nutrition for infants, especially during the first six months of life. However, many postpartum mothers experience obstacles in producing breast milk optimally. One non-pharmacological alternative to increase breast milk production is the consumption of mung bean extract, which contains lactagogues and B-complex vitamins. This study aims to determine the effect of mung bean extract on breast milk production in postpartum mothers. The method used was a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach involving 10 postpartum mothers at PMB Bidan SRI, Selesai Subdistrict, Langkat Regency. The intervention was carried out for seven consecutive days, and data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test. The results showed a significant increase in the average breast milk production score from 1.20 to 2.90 after the intervention, with a p-value of 0.004. This indicates that mung bean extract has a positive effect on increasing breast milk production. These findings are expected to serve as a basis for healthcare providers to recommend mung bean consumption in lactation management for postpartum mothers.

The maternal mortality rate remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries. Timely detection of obstetric emergencies such as preeclampsia, sepsis, and postpartum hemorrhage is crucial to reducing delays in treatment. This literature review aims to analyze the implementation and effectiveness of the Modified Early Obstetric Warning Score (MEOWS) in primary healthcare settings. The review included 22 articles published between 2016 and 2023, identified through databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Findings indicate that MEOWS is effective in detecting early signs of maternal deterioration, improving clinical decision-making, and preventing severe complications. However, challenges remain in adopting MEOWS in primary care due to limited training, lack of standardized protocols, and inadequate resources. The results highlight the need for capacity building, policy support, and contextual adaptation of MEOWS to optimize its use in community-based maternal care. This review suggests that the integration of MEOWS can strengthen obstetric triage systems and contribute to lowering maternal mortality rates in low-resource settings.

Breast milk production in the early postpartum period is a crucial factor for successful breastfeeding, particularly among primiparous mothers who often experience lactation difficulties during days 3–7 after childbirth. Non-pharmacological interventions such as oxytocin massage and breast care are considered effective approaches to support milk production by enhancing hormonal release and breast stimulation.This study employed a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. The study was conducted at the Sahu Public Health Center, West Halmahera, involving 20 primiparous breastfeeding mothers on days 3–7 postpartum selected through purposive sampling. Oxytocin massage and breast care were administered according to standardized procedures. Breast milk production was assessed before and after the intervention using observational indicators of milk flow. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. The results showed a significant improvement in breast milk production after the intervention. The mean breast milk production score decreased from 1.95 before the intervention to 1.15 after the intervention, indicating smoother milk flow. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in breast milk production before and after oxytocin massage and breast care (Z = −3.358; p = 0.001). Oxytocin massage combined with breast care significantly improves breast milk production among primiparous breastfeeding mothers during days 3–7 postpartum. These non-pharmacological interventions are safe, practical, and effective, and are recommended to be integrated into routine postpartum care to support early lactation success.

Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is a key strategy for improving infant health and reducing morbidity and mortality. However, the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding remains suboptimal in many areas, often due to limited maternal knowledge, inadequate support, and insufficient lactation counseling. Intensive lactation counseling is expected to enhance mothers’ understanding, confidence, and commitment to exclusive breastfeeding. This study aimed to analyze the effect of intensive lactation counseling on exclusive breastfeeding practices up to three months postpartum at the Paguat Community Health Center (UPTD). This study employed a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. A total of 30 breastfeeding mothers were selected as participants using purposive sampling techniques. Data on exclusive breastfeeding practices were collected before and after the implementation of intensive lactation counseling using structured questionnaires and observation sheets. The counseling intervention was conducted intensively through individualized sessions focusing on breastfeeding techniques, benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, and problem-solving strategies. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results showed a significant effect of intensive lactation counseling on exclusive breastfeeding practices up to three months postpartum. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test yielded a p-value of 0.000, indicating a statistically significant improvement in exclusive breastfeeding behavior after the intervention. In conclusion, intensive lactation counseling has a significant positive effect on exclusive breastfeeding up to three months. Strengthening lactation counseling services at community health centers recommended to improve exclusive breastfeeding coverage and support maternal and infant health outcomes.

The Caesarean Section (C-Section) procedure is one of the most common surgical methods for childbirth, performed through an incision in the abdominal wall (laparotomy) and the uterine wall (hysterotomy). Despite its effectiveness in ensuring maternal and fetal safety, one of the major postoperative complaints reported by patients is pain. Pain itself is defined as an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, which is subjective and can only be described by the person experiencing it. Unmanaged pain may negatively affect postoperative recovery, emotional well-being, mobility, and breastfeeding initiation. Therefore, appropriate nursing care interventions are essential to help patients achieve comfort and recovery. This scientific paper explores the implementation of sacral plexus therapy as part of nursing interventions to address pain problems in post-C-section patients. The study employed a case study approach that applied the nursing care process, which includes comprehensive assessment, formulation of nursing diagnoses, planning, implementation of interventions, and evaluation. Nursing care was carried out over a period of 72 hours (3x24 hours), with pain intensity and patient comfort levels monitored throughout the process. The evaluation results showed that all nursing diagnoses related to pain were successfully resolved within the given timeframe. Specifically, the application of sacral plexus therapy proved effective in reducing the intensity of postoperative pain and improving overall comfort, enabling patients to gradually regain mobility and adapt to their postpartum condition. In conclusion, sacral plexus therapy can serve as a complementary and non-pharmacological intervention within nursing care to effectively manage pain in post-C-section patients. These findings highlight the importance of innovative and holistic approaches in nursing practice to improve patient recovery and quality of care after surgical childbirth.

Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among postpartum mothers, and this condition can affect the physical and psychological recovery process after childbirth. Untreated sleep disturbances can lead to various problems, such as fatigue, decreased quality of life, and even the risk of mental health disorders such as postpartum depression. One non-pharmacological approach that can be used to address these sleep disturbances is lavender aromatherapy. Lavender aromatherapy is known to have a calming effect that can help improve sleep quality. This community service activity aims to increase postpartum mothers' knowledge about the use of lavender aromatherapy as a complementary therapy to address their sleep problems. The activity was conducted in June 2025 at the Lismarini Independent Midwife Practice (PMB), using methods that included education, discussion, and distribution of informative leaflets. A total of 15 postpartum mothers participated in this activity, and to measure their knowledge, pre- and post-tests were conducted before and after the education session. The evaluation results showed a significant increase in participants' knowledge levels after participating in the education about lavender aromatherapy. Education about the use of lavender aromatherapy has been proven effective in increasing postpartum mothers' understanding of the benefits and how to use this therapy. Thus, lavender aromatherapy can be a beneficial health promotion strategy to support postpartum recovery. Through this activity, it is hoped that postpartum mothers can apply the knowledge gained to independently improve their sleep quality, thereby supporting their physical and mental health during the recovery period. This activity also contributes to efforts to improve overall public health and provides new insights for healthcare workers in educating postpartum mothers about safe and effective alternative therapies.

Anxiety often arises during pregnancy due to both physical and psychological changes that can negatively impact the health of both the mother and the fetus. These changes may include hormonal fluctuations, fear of labor, and concerns about the baby’s wellbeing. In Indonesia, approximately 28.7% of 373,000 pregnant women in their third trimester experience anxiety as they approach labor. If left untreated, anxiety during pregnancy can lead to complications such as prolonged labor, low birth weight, and postpartum depression. Therefore, early and appropriate intervention is crucial. This study aims to describe the application of Islamic mindfulness meditation therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce anxiety in pregnant women at Puskesmas Purbaratu, Tasikmalaya. Anxiety is a condition in which an individual feels uneasy, worried, or uncomfortable. Islamic mindfulness meditation therapy is a relaxation technique that integrates spiritual practices with mental focus through meditation, allowing the soul and mind to be calm, centered, and connected with God. It includes dhikr (remembrance of Allah), controlled breathing, and contemplation of positive thoughts. The method used in this study is a case study involving two primigravida pregnant clients experiencing moderate anxiety. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and measurements using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS). The results indicate that Islamic mindfulness meditation therapy significantly reduced anxiety levels from moderate to mild after five consecutive days of implementation. This was achieved through a combination of breathing exercises, spiritual reflection, and relaxation. This study concludes that Islamic mindfulness meditation can be an effective, affordable, and spiritually enriching alternative therapy to reduce anxiety in pregnant women, especially during the vulnerable third trimester. It is recommended that health workers consider incorporating this method into antenatal care programs.

The leading causes of maternal mortality are thought to include hemorrhage, sepsis, obstructed labor, and hypertensive disease of pregnancy. For many years, demographic and health surveys have been used to study maternal and perinatal health in developing countries. However, few nationwide population surveys have used formally validated questionnaires. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of maternal self-reports of obstetrical complications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 women at Two Hospitals and one public health center. A questionnaire recorded mothers’ perceptions of obstetrical complications while hospital medical records. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and percent agreement were obtained for obstetrical conditions. Result: In general, women’s reports of obstetrical complications did not match medical diagnoses. The highest agreement was obtained for reporting eclampsia, with less agreement for postpartum haemorrhage. Conclusion: The validity of the survey questionnaires varies between studies due to differences in the questionnaires. Health surveys based on maternal self-report must be interpreted with consideration of this limitation.

The Dayak Sanggau community practices a number of cultural traditions during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, reflecting a blend of spiritual beliefs and medical needs. This study employed a qualitative method with a literature review (library research) approach to explore pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum practices among the Dayak Sanggau people. The findings identified supportive practices such as spousal involvement and basic check-ups by traditional midwives, as well as potentially harmful practices including non-sterile vaginal examinations, childbirth in the kitchen area, and the use of alcoholic herbal concoctions for infants. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of understanding local culture and integrating medical education so that positive traditional practices can be preserved, while risky ones are minimized through culturally sensitive interventions.

Pregnancy is a critical phase in a woman's life that demands comprehensive support from her closest environment, especially from her husband. This study aims to describe the role of husbands in accompanying their wives during pregnancy, identify factors that influence the level of involvement, and understand the impact on the physical and psychological health of pregnant women. The research approach used was qualitative with the type of phenomenological study, which was conducted in Kotabaru District, South Kalimantan. The main informants consisted of purposively selected pregnant women and postpartum mothers, complemented by triangulation from husbands, health workers, and community leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, non-participatory observation, and documentation, and analyzed thematically. The results showed that husbands' assistance included involvement in pregnancy check-ups, assistance with household chores, provision of financial and emotional support, and roles in preparing for childbirth. However, this involvement was influenced by the husband's knowledge, culture, communication, and working conditions. Intact support from husbands was shown to have a positive impact on pregnant women's sense of comfort, confidence, mental readiness, and physical health. This study emphasizes the importance of holistic involvement of husbands in the pregnancy process and the need for a family and culture-based approach in preparing for childbirth.

Natural and non-natural disasters significantly disrupt healthcare systems, particularly obstetric and gynecological services, which are highly vulnerable to service interruptions and quality decline. Pregnant women, postpartum mothers, and newborns face an increased risk of complications and mortality without adequate medical care. Health professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the continuity of reproductive health services through the implementation of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP), emergency management, health education, and intersectoral coordination. However, challenges such as limited resources, psychological pressure, and lack of specialized training hinder optimal performance. Therefore, strengthening the capacity of healthcare workers, enhancing disaster preparedness, providing adequate logistics, and enacting supportive governmental policies are essential to maintain effective obstetric-gynecological care during crises. This literature review comprehensively discusses the role of health workers in ensuring reproductive health services in disaster settings as a strategy to improve access and service quality during emergencies.

The postpartum period is a critical period for mothers and babies because a other does not only focus on herself,, but also on caring for her baby. Problems arise in postpartum service visits results in minimal information on ppostpartum vare. Community empowerment through improving the skills of cadres as companions for postpartum mothers is expected to solve problems in postpartum mothers. Community service activities will be carried out for 3 face to face meetings in Bandengan Village involving 6 active Posyandu with 21 people attending. Improving the knowledge and skills of cadres is carried out using a case study approach, group discussions, lectures and simulations. Assistance will be carried out by scheduling visits to postpartum mothers and conducting evaluations. There has been an increase in the knowledge and skills of cadres in assisting postpartum mothers. It is hoped that healthy cadres can become an extension of health workers in monitoring postpartum mothers and their babies, so that problems can be reduced.

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.