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Labor pain in the first stage is one of the main challenges faced by mothers in labor. Effective pain management is essential to improve comfort and smooth the labor process. One of the non-pharmacological methods that can be used is warm compresses, which are believed to be able to reduce pain intensity through muscle relaxation mechanisms and increased blood circulation. This study aims to analyze the effect of giving warm compresses on pain levels in first-stage labor patients at Kotamobagu Regional Hospital. Method: This study used a quantitative method with a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest approach with a control group. The study sample consisted of 16 respondents selected by purposive sampling. Pain measurements were taken before and after giving warm compresses using a numeric pain scale. Data analysis used the chi-square statistical test with a significance level of p <0.05. The results showed that there was a significant effect between giving warm compresses on reducing pain in first-stage labor patients with a p-value of 0.000 (p <0.05). Respondents who received warm compress intervention experienced a greater decrease in pain intensity compared to the group that did not receive the intervention. Giving warm compresses has been proven effective in reducing labor pain in the first stage. Therefore, this method can be recommended as one of the non-pharmacological pain management strategies in health care facilities. It is hoped that health workers, especially midwives, can be more active in implementing the warm compress method as part of labor pain management. In addition, further research with a larger sample size and a stronger research design is needed to strengthen these findings.

Sectio caesarea (CS) is a common surgical procedure for high-risk deliveries, but one complication that may occur is slow wound healing. This can be influenced by several factors, one of which is early mobilization. Early mobilization improves blood circulation, reduces the risk of thrombosis, and accelerates wound healing. However, many post-CS mothers are hesitant to engage in early mobilization due to pain and discomfort. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between early mobilization and the duration of wound healing in post-CS mothers at Morotai Island Hospital. An analytical cross-sectional design was used, involving 16 post-CS mothers who were selected using purposive sampling. Data collection was performed through observation, interviews, and a questionnaire, along with an examination of postoperative wound conditions. The Wilcoxon statistical test was used to assess the relationship between early mobilization and wound healing duration. The findings showed that mothers who engaged in early mobilization experienced faster wound healing compared to those who did not. The statistical test revealed a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant relationship between early mobilization and wound healing duration. Early mobilization was shown to be an effective strategy for accelerating post-CS recovery, as mothers who mobilized early had quicker recovery times. Based on these results, it is recommended that early mobilization be integrated into postoperative care plans to improve recovery and prevent complications. Additionally, more intensive education on the benefits of early mobilization should be provided to post-CS mothers. Healthcare providers at Morotai Island Regional Hospital should offer support and motivation to encourage mothers to engage in early mobilization, ultimately aiding in faster recovery.

Population policy in Indonesia represents a key government effort to regulate and control population growth. One of the most significant strategies in managing population growth is Family Planning, which helps reduce the rate of fertility and support healthier families. Among the various contraceptive methods, the IUD (Intrauterine Device) is a non-hormonal option that is commonly used by Fertile Age Couples (FACs). The goal of this study was to explore the relationship between the level of knowledge and the interest in the IUD contraceptive method among couples in the Puskesmas Pugaan area. This research employed an analytical approach using a cross-sectional design. The population for this study included all fertile couples in the Pugaan Health Center area. A purposive sampling technique was applied, selecting a sample of 20 participants. Data were collected through questionnaires, and the data were analyzed using the chi-square test with the SPSS version 25 software. The study found that 12 participants (60%) had good knowledge of IUDs, 5 participants (25%) had sufficient knowledge, and 3 participants (15%) had poor knowledge. Regarding interest in using IUDs, 16 participants (80%) expressed an interest, while 4 participants (20%) were not interested in using the IUD. The chi-square statistical test yielded a P value of 0.000 (P < 0.05), indicating a statistically significant relationship between knowledge level and interest in the IUD contraceptive method. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is a significant relationship between the level of knowledge and the interest in using IUD contraception at Puskesmas Pugaan. These findings suggest that improving the knowledge of couples about contraceptive methods like the IUD may play a crucial role in increasing interest and usage rates, contributing to more effective population control efforts

Wearable technologies, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, have gained popularity in recent years as tools for monitoring health. These devices are increasingly used not only by adults but also by children, offering a promising approach to promoting healthy living habits. This study investigates the impact of wearable technology on improving healthy living habits in children, specifically focusing on physical activity levels and dietary behaviors. The research employed a quasi-experimental design and involved 150 children aged 8 to 12 years who wore wearable devices to track their physical activity over a 6-month period. The data was collected through physical activity measurements, dietary assessments, and healthy lifestyle surveys conducted both before and after the intervention. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the children's physical activity levels, with a notable reduction in sedentary behaviors such as prolonged sitting. Furthermore, children using wearable technology showed improvements in their dietary choices, opting for healthier food options more frequently. Parents also reported a positive change in their children’s attitudes towards health, with an increased awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These findings suggest that wearable technology can be an effective tool in promoting physical activity and healthy eating habits among children. The study highlights the potential of integrating such technologies into children's health education to support the development of better lifestyle behaviors. Given the positive outcomes observed, it is recommended that policymakers, educators, and health professionals consider incorporating wearable devices into public health initiatives aimed at improving children’s health and well-being. Further research could focus on long-term effects and explore additional benefits of wearable technology in enhancing various aspects of child development.

The development of critical thinking skills is essential for preparing future generations to effectively navigate the challenges posed by rapid technological and scientific advancements. This study examines the effectiveness of STEM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in enhancing critical thinking skills among elementary school students in Indonesia. Using a quasi-experimental method with a pre-test and post-test control group design, this research involved 120 students from three elementary schools in East Java. The experimental group was taught using an integrated STEM approach, while the control group continued with a traditional curriculum. The primary objective was to assess how STEM-based learning impacts students' critical thinking, particularly in areas such as problem-solving, reasoning, and analysis. The results revealed a significant improvement in the critical thinking abilities of students in the STEM group compared to the control group. Students in the experimental group demonstrated enhanced skills in problem-solving and reasoning, with notable improvements in their ability to analyze and evaluate information. Additionally, the STEM group exhibited higher levels of engagement, curiosity, and motivation in their learning, along with a greater ability to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-life contexts. These findings suggest that STEM-based learning can play a crucial role in developing critical thinking and other essential skills required in the 21st century. This research underscores the potential benefits of incorporating STEM education into elementary school curricula to foster critical thinking and prepare students for future challenges. The study recommends that policymakers and educators focus on providing the necessary training, resources, and support to effectively implement STEM-based learning in primary education. By doing so, we can ensure that students develop the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.  

Birth and delivery are normal physiological events involving the expulsion of the fetus that occurs during 37-42 weeks (full term pregnancy). For a mother, the labor process can cause fear and pain so that the risk of labor that is too long increases. By using a birthing ball, the mother can move more comfortably and experience less pain, so that labor will be shorter. This study aims to determine the Effect of Using a Birthing Ball on the Length of Stage 1 of the Active Phase at the Paguyaman Gorontalo Health Center. The purpose of this study was to analyze how the birthing ball method affects the length of the active phase I stage. The design of this study was a static Group Comparison pre-experimental design. Statistical tests with the Independent T Test. The population of this study were mothers giving birth at the Paguyaman Gorontalo Health Center. The sample consisted of 32 people. The results of the study on the use of birthing balls obtained an average labor progress of 288 minutes. The results of the statistical test with a significance value of 0.00 which means p <0.05. The conclusion of this study is that there is a significant influence in the use of the birthing ball method on the length of the first active phase in mothers giving birth in the Paguyaman Gorontalo Health Center Area. Suggestions for health workers in making plans to improve maternal care during labor by using birthing balls to help the progress of labor

Indonesia's healthcare system continues to face significant challenges in delivering equitable services across diverse and remote regions. The digital transformation of healthcare—through the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), big data, and telemedicine—offers promising solutions to overcome disparities in access, infrastructure, and service delivery. This study aims to comprehensively analyze global and national research trends related to the digital transformation of healthcare using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, supported by bibliometric analysis through the VOSviewer software. Following the PRISMA protocol, a total of 30 relevant articles published between 2020 and 2025 were identified and analyzed. The network and overlay visualizations generated reveal four major thematic clusters: digital transformation and service quality, big data and pandemic response, AI and data privacy, and community engagement in digital health services. Overlay visualization also shows a clear shift in research focus—from early pandemic responses toward system optimization, ethical governance, and technological inclusivity in recent years. The findings highlight that digital healthcare transformation has increasingly evolved from emergency responses to COVID-19 into a strategic framework for long-term system improvement. Moreover, AI and big data have played pivotal roles in enhancing diagnostics, predicting outbreaks, and improving resource allocation. However, concerns related to privacy, digital literacy, and unequal technological access remain prominent. The study concludes that the integration of AI, big data, and telemedicine not only enhances healthcare efficiency but also requires strong regulatory frameworks, infrastructure readiness, and public engagement. Future research should incorporate co-citation and cross-country comparative analyses to enrich the understanding of digital health transformation in a global context, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Indonesia.

Traditional medicine has been trusted for generations as an effective remedy for various health conditions and is widely recognized for its safety when compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. One of the main reasons individuals choose herbal medicines is their relative affordability and the perception that they are free from harmful chemical additives. However, recent public warnings issued between 2020 and 2025 have revealed the presence of hazardous medicinal chemicals (Bahan Kimia Obat/BKO) such as sildenafil citrate and caffeine in some stamina-enhancing herbal products. This study aims to develop and validate an analytical method using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) coupled with densitometry for the detection of sildenafil citrate and caffeine in herbal medicines. The method was chosen due to its simplicity, low operational cost, and ability to effectively separate these two compounds. A category II validation was performed to determine the presence of impurities, with a focus on parameters including selectivity and the Limit of Detection (LOD). The mobile phase employed was a combination of chloroform and ethanol (9.5:0.5 v/v), and detection was carried out at 254 nm using a densitometer. The TLC results showed that sildenafil citrate and caffeine had Rf values of 0.32 and 0.52, respectively, with a resolution (Rs) of 2, indicating a good separation. The LOD for sildenafil citrate was 8.5418 μl/ml (0.0854 mg per 600 mg sample), while the LOD for caffeine was 4.7987 μl/ml (0.0959 mg per 600 mg sample). These findings highlight the importance of routine quality control testing to ensure the safety and authenticity of herbal medicines in the market.

Indonesia's healthcare system continues to face significant challenges in delivering equitable services across diverse and remote regions. The digital transformation of healthcare—through the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), big data, and telemedicine—offers promising solutions to overcome disparities in access, infrastructure, and service delivery. This study aims to comprehensively analyze global and national research trends related to the digital transformation of healthcare using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, supported by bibliometric analysis through the VOSviewer software. Following the PRISMA protocol, a total of 30 relevant articles published between 2020 and 2025 were identified and analyzed. The network and overlay visualizations generated reveal four major thematic clusters: digital transformation and service quality, big data and pandemic response, AI and data privacy, and community engagement in digital health services. Overlay visualization also shows a clear shift in research focus—from early pandemic responses toward system optimization, ethical governance, and technological inclusivity in recent years. The study concludes that the integration of AI, big data, and telemedicine not only enhances healthcare efficiency but also requires strong regulatory frameworks, infrastructure readiness, and public engagement. Future research should incorporate co-citation and cross-country comparative analyses to enrich the understanding of digital health transformation in a global context.

Insufficient milk supply is one of the primary reasons for the discontinuation of exclusive breastfeeding, which poses a significant challenge to maternal and infant health. While kenikir (Cosmos caudatus) has long been used as a traditional remedy believed to help increase breast milk production, its direct effect on lactation has not been thoroughly studied. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of kenikir extract on prolactin hormone levels in postpartum mothers, which plays a key role in milk production. This was a true experimental study utilizing a pretest-posttest control group design. Kenikir extract served as the independent variable, and prolactin hormone levels were the dependent variable. A total of 40 postpartum mothers were included in the study, randomly divided into two groups: an intervention group that received 300 mg of kenikir extract daily for 14 days, and a control group with no treatment. The study analyzed within-group changes using the Paired T-Test and Wilcoxon test, and between-group differences were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. The results indicated that the intervention group experienced a significant increase in prolactin hormone levels, with an average of 44.70 ng/ml and a p-value of 0.0001. This shows that kenikir extract significantly enhances prolactin hormone secretion in postpartum mothers. These findings suggest that kenikir extract could be a promising natural remedy for increasing milk supply, offering an alternative or complementary approach to supporting lactating mothers. Further studies should be conducted to explore the long-term effects of kenikir extract on breastfeeding success and its potential role in promoting maternal and infant health.

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.

Abortion remains a significant reproductive health issue worldwide, with around 20 million cases recorded annually, leading to approximately 70,000 maternal deaths each year. In Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, approximately 4.2 million abortion cases occur annually. In Indonesia, spontaneous abortion accounts for 10-15% of all pregnancies, while induced (provoked) abortion is estimated to range from 750,000 to 1.5 million cases per year. Several factors can influence the incidence of abortion, one of which is parity the number of previous pregnancies a woman has carried to a viable gestational age. This study aims to analyze the relationship between parity and the incidence of abortion, contributing to a better understanding of how reproductive history impacts abortion rates. The research used an analytical design with a cross-sectional approach, involving a sample of 122 mothers selected through simple random sampling. The findings revealed that 45.9% of the mothers had safe parity, while 54.1% had unsafe parity. Regarding the type of abortion, 97.5% of respondents experienced spontaneous abortion, while 2.5% underwent induced abortion. Data analysis was conducted using the chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05, which produced a p-value of 0.562, indicating no significant relationship between parity and the incidence of abortion. These results suggest that parity is not a significant factor influencing abortion incidence in this sample. While other factors may contribute to abortion risk, further research is needed to explore additional variables that may play a role. This study underscores the complexity of abortion incidents and highlights the need for broader investigations to understand the diverse influences on reproductive health outcomes, beyond parity alone.

This study aims to identify the factors that influence the first antenatal visit (K1) among pregnant women. The study employed a descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach, utilizing a total sampling technique. A total of 49 respondents, all of whom made the K1 visit, were included in the study. The variables examined in this research included maternal age, parity, and gestational age at the time of the K1 visit. Secondary data obtained from medical records were used for analysis. The results revealed that the majority of pregnant women who made the K1 visit were in the non-risk age group (20–35 years), accounting for 84% of the respondents. Regarding parity, most participants were multiparous, making up 53% of the total sample. In terms of gestational age, 43% of respondents made their K1 visit during the first trimester of pregnancy (0–12 weeks). The study found that the first antenatal visit was predominantly conducted by pregnant women in the non-risk age group (20–35 years) and the multiparous group. Additionally, the K1 visits were most frequently made when the gestational age was in the first trimester, reflecting early engagement with antenatal care. These findings highlight the importance of maternal age, parity, and gestational age in influencing the timing of the first antenatal visit, which plays a critical role in ensuring early and adequate prenatal care for pregnant women. These insights can be used to improve strategies for encouraging timely K1 visits, particularly for pregnant women who may be at risk of delayed prenatal care.

Every pregnant woman requires proper care throughout her pregnancy, as it is a critical time for both the mother and the developing fetus. However, many husbands tend to leave their wives to cope on their own, especially after childbirth, not fully realizing the emotional and psychological challenges their wives face. Pregnancy often brings anxiety and fear, and during this time, a pregnant woman greatly needs support from her husband, family, and others around her. The husband’s reactions and behaviors, along with his attitude towards the pregnancy and childbirth, can significantly influence the mother’s emotional and psychological readiness for labor. A supportive husband can help reduce anxiety and increase the mother’s confidence and preparedness for the labor process. This study aims to examine the relationship between husband’s support and the mother’s readiness in facing the labor process. The research design used for this study is correlational, which aims to identify the relationship between variables. The sample for this study consisted of pregnant women attending TPMB Ny. Afita Delianah in Turen Subdistrict, Malang Regency. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, and statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test. The results of the study indicated a significant relationship between husband’s support and the mother’s readiness for labor, with a p-value of 0.001 (p < 0.05). This finding underscores the importance of involving husbands in the pregnancy and labor process, as their emotional and practical support can have a profound impact on the mother’s mental and emotional state. It is essential that healthcare professionals and family members encourage and provide opportunities for husbands to actively support their wives during this critical time, as it can positively affect the overall childbirth experience

The consumption of iron tablets (Fe) among pregnant women in 2013 reached 90.32%, an increase from 82.09% in 2011, showing an improvement of 8.23 percentage points and meeting the target of 90%. Iron tablets are essential for preventing anemia during pregnancy, which can lead to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight and premature birth. This study aims to identify various factors that may influence pregnant women's knowledge about the benefits of iron tablet consumption at the Kotamobagu Small Motoboi Health Center in Mubago City, North Sulawesi. The research employs a cross-sectional descriptive analytical approach, using univariate analysis to examine primary data collected through questionnaires. A sample of 30 pregnant women was selected incidentally for the study. The results indicated a strong correlation between pregnant women's awareness of iron tablets and several demographic and socio-economic factors. Specifically, the chi-squared test revealed significant relationships between pregnant women’s knowledge and their age (p = 0.020), education level (p = 0.020), parity (p = 0.035), and source of information (p = 0.039). These findings suggest that demographic factors such as age and education, along with access to reliable information sources, significantly contribute to the level of knowledge about iron tablet consumption. The study's findings can be used to enhance public health strategies, particularly in increasing awareness among pregnant women about the importance of consuming iron tablets to prevent anemia and improve maternal and fetal health outcomes. Educating pregnant women and providing accessible sources of information are crucial in improving Fe tablet consumption rates and reducing related health risks

This study presents a cross-national analysis of adolescent mental health and academic stress to explore their interrelations and broader implications for global educational policies. Using data from Bangladesh, Gambia, and Indonesia, the research examines how academic expectations, pressure to perform, and school environments affect students' psychological well-being in diverse cultural, educational, and socioeconomic contexts. The study identifies significant patterns and disparities in mental health outcomes, revealing that stress levels and psychological challenges vary significantly between countries. In Bangladesh, medical students face a critical mental health burden, with high levels of anxiety, stress, digital addiction, and sleep deprivation being common issues. This situation underscores the pressing need for mental health interventions in the education sector, particularly within high-pressure fields such as medical studies. Conversely, in Gambia, there has been a notable increase in inpatient mental health admissions, suggesting a growing awareness of mental health issues and improved access to institutional care. However, the decline in community-based mental health services presents a critical challenge, as these services are essential for sustainable mental health support outside of hospital settings. In Indonesia, while academic stress is prevalent, the focus has been on improving institutional care and psychological support for students, yet there remains a gap in addressing stressors within the school environment. This study emphasizes the urgent need for inclusive, student-centered educational reforms that prioritize mental health support systems and advocate for the integration of mental health services into educational settings. The findings suggest that global educational policies must consider these country-specific challenges and trends in order to create more balanced academic environments that foster both mental well-being and academic success

Chronic Energy Deficiency (CHD) is a condition resulting from an imbalance in the intake of energy and protein nutrients needed by pregnant women. The impact of CHD during pregnancy can lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of maternal and infant mortality. To address this, the Supplementary Feeding Program (PMT) is often implemented to improve the nutritional intake of pregnant women. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of PMT on pregnant women with SEZ (Chronic Energy Deficiency) at the Ribang Health Center. The sample consisted of 15 respondents. Data collection involved measuring the upper arm circumference (LILA) of pregnant women using a LILA tape and an observation sheet to track PMT participation. The research employed a non-equivalent quasi-experimental design, utilizing a quantitative approach with a one-group pretest-posttest design. Data analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon statistical test to assess changes in the participants' LILA before and after the intervention. The results showed a notable improvement in the size of the upper arm circumference (LILA) in the respondents after receiving the PMT intervention. Before the intervention, 100% of the respondents had a LILA measurement of less than 23.5 cm, indicating chronic energy deficiency. After the intervention, 40% of respondents still had a LILA measurement of less than 23.5 cm, but 60% of the respondents showed a significant improvement with a LILA greater than 23.5 cm. The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in LILA measurements before and after the intervention, with a p-value of 0.000. In conclusion, the provision of PMT has a significant positive effect on improving the nutritional status of pregnant women with chronic energy deficiency, as evidenced by the increase in their LILA measurements

Anemia in pregnant women is a serious health concern, as red blood cells play a crucial role in delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus. Adequate iron intake during pregnancy is necessary, as maternal anemia is a risk factor for negative perinatal outcomes, such as low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth. Additionally, anemia during labor can lead to complications, with a 17.24% rate of bleeding directly attributed to this condition. This study aims to explore the relationship between compliance with Fe tablet consumption and the incidence of anemia among pregnant women at the Tanjung Health Center, Tabalong Regency, South Kalimantan. An analytical survey design using a cross-sectional approach was applied, focusing on identifying relationships between two or more variables. The sampling technique employed was total sampling, involving 25 pregnant women, and data was collected using a checklist sheet. Chi-square analysis was performed using SPSS to test the data. The results showed a P-value (asymp. Sig 2-tailed) of 0.000, which is less than 0.05, indicating a significant relationship between Fe tablet consumption compliance and anemia incidence in pregnant women. Therefore, the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected, and the alternative hypothesis (H1) was accepted, concluding that there is a significant relationship between compliance with Fe tablet consumption and the incidence of anemia in pregnant women. This finding highlights the importance of proper iron supplementation in preventing anemia and improving maternal health outcomes during pregnancy.

Anxiety in pregnant women is often characterized by intense fear or panic, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to various complications such as prolonged labor, maternal fatigue, and even labor stall. This study aimed to determine the relationship between family support and maternal preparedness with the anxiety levels of pregnant women prior to childbirth. The research utilized a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach, conducted in the working area of the Bongo Nol Health Center. The study population consisted of pregnant women in their second and third trimesters (TM II and TM III). A total of 40 pregnant women participated in the study, selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires designed to assess family support, maternal preparedness, and anxiety levels. The results revealed that 20% of the pregnant women who received inadequate family support experienced severe anxiety, with a statistically significant p-value of 0.001. Similarly, 15% of mothers with lower levels of preparedness reported severe anxiety, also with a p-value of 0.001. These findings suggest a significant relationship between both family support and maternal preparedness with anxiety levels in pregnant women prior to delivery. The study concludes that increased family support and maternal readiness can help reduce anxiety levels in pregnant women, particularly in the lead-up to childbirth. Healthcare providers should prioritize interventions to strengthen family involvement and support maternal readiness, especially for women at risk of high anxiety, to improve birth outcomes and maternal well-being. Future research should explore additional factors contributing to anxiety and the effectiveness of targeted interventions for high-risk pregnancies

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.