Publication Search

Background: Labor is a physiological process that is commonly accompanied by pain, causing discomfort, anxiety, and fear that may interfere with maternal well-being and labor progress. Effleurage massage is a complementary, non-pharmacological intervention used to reduce labor pain. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of effleurage massage in reducing pain intensity during the first stage of labor. Method: A literature review was conducted using articles retrieved from Google Scholar. An initial search identified 45 articles, and after screening based on publication year (2021–2026), relevance, and inclusion criteria, 10 research articles were included for analysis. Data were extracted and synthesized descriptively. Results: The findings consistently showed that effleurage massage reduced labor pain by promoting relaxation, decreasing muscle tension, improving blood circulation, and stimulating endorphin release through the gate control mechanism. Most studies also reported improved maternal comfort during labor. Conclusion: In conclusion, effleurage massage is an effective, safe, affordable, and easy-to-apply complementary therapy that can be integrated into midwifery care to reduce labor pain and enhance maternal comfort.  

The most frequent complaint among pregnant women, particularly during the second and third trimesters, is sleep difficulties. Emotional disorders, physical exhaustion, and a higher chance of pregnancy difficulties can all result from poor sleep. Back massage combined with lavender aromatherapy is one non-pharmacological treatment that has been shown to be safe for enhancing the quality of sleep. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of lavender back massage on pregnant women's sleep quality. Thirty third-trimester pregnant women in the West Halmahera Community Health Center (Puskesmas) operating area participated in the study, which employed a pre-experimental design and a one-group pretest-posttest methodology. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess the quality of sleep. According to the findings, the majority of respondents (76.7%) experienced poor sleep quality before to the back massage, with an average PSQI score of 11.2. The PSQI score dropped to 6.1 following three days of lavender back massages, indicating a substantial improvement in sleep quality. The Wilcoxon statistical test revealed a substantial increase in sleep quality following the intervention, with p = 0.000. According to the study's findings, back massage with lavender can be suggested as a safe supplemental therapy in prenatal care services as it effectively improves pregnant women's sleep quality.

Hypertension is a chronic health problem whose prevalence continues to increase and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In addition to pharmacological therapy, non-pharmacological interventions are needed to help control blood pressure safely and sustainably. One complementary therapy that has the potential to lower blood pressure is Slow Stroke Back Massage (SSBM), which works through relaxation mechanisms and modulation of the autonomic nervous system. This study aims to determine the effect of SSBM therapy on reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients in the Camar Room of RSKD Dadi, South Sulawesi Province. The study used a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a two-group pretest–posttest design. A sample of 32 respondents was selected using a purposive sampling technique, divided into an intervention group and a control group. Data collection was carried out by measuring systolic and diastolic blood pressure before and after the intervention using a standard sphygmomanometer. The results showed a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the group receiving SSBM therapy compared to the control group. Thus, SSBM therapy has a significant effect on reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients and can be recommended as a complementary therapy in nursing care.

This study aimed to form late and evaluate a natural massage oil preparation using a combination of lavender, citronella, and chamomile essential oils with olive oil as the carrier oil. The background of this research was based on the increasing public demand for natural body care products that are safe, non-irritating to the skin, and provide relaxation effects. The three essential oils used possess therapeutic activities, including relaxation, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory effects, as well as the ability to relieve stress and muscle tension. The study employed three formulation variations (F1, F2, and F3) with different compositions of essential oils. The evaluation of the preparations included organoleptic tests, pH measurement, viscosity, specific gravity, physical stability testing, hedonic testing, and irritation testing. The organoleptic test results showed that all formulations had a liquid form, a deep light-yellow color, and a characteristic aroma corresponding to the dominant essential oil in each formulation. The pH values of all formulations were stable at 5, indicating safety for skin application. Viscosity values were within the ideal range for massage oil, between 4.124–4.735 cPs, and specific gravity values were within the standard range. Stability testing over 28 days revealed no significant changes in color, aroma, pH, or viscosity. The irritation test indicated that none of the formulations caused skin irritation in panelists. Hedonic testing showed that formulation 2 was the most preferred in terms of aroma, while formulation 3 was preferred for texture. Overall, all three formulations were considered stable, safe, and well accepted by consumers, indicating their potential use as natural massage oil products.

Labor pain begins in the first stage, which includes the latent phase (cervical dilation up to 3 cm) and the active phase (cervical dilation from 4 cm to 10 cm). The active phase sees an increase in the intensity and frequency of contractions, leading to peak pain. Research on 2,700 delivering mothers found that 15% experienced mild pain, 35% moderate pain, 30% severe pain, and 20% very severe pain. To reduce maternal mortality (AKI), minimizing labor pain is crucial. Labor pain can be controlled through pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Non-pharmacological methods include counter pressure, hypnobirthing, endorphin massage, effleurage massage, relaxation techniques, warm compresses, Mozart music, murottal therapy, acupressure, and aromatherapy. Distraction and pain management techniques are vital for healthcare providers to help reduce pain, especially during the first stage of labor. One effective method is deep breathing relaxation, where regulating the breathing pattern can reduce pain caused by cervical dilation. Slow deep breathing, a conscious relaxation technique, has several benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus, lowering blood pressure, enhancing sleep quality, and improving digestion. Objective: To determine the effect of slow deep breathing on labor pain reduction. Results: Wilcoxon statistical test showed a significance value of ρ = 0.023 (ρ<0.05), indicating a significant difference in labor pain levels before and after applying slow deep breathing. Conclusion: Slow deep breathing reduces labor pain levels.

Background: Discomfort in third trimester pregnant women often arises due to physiological changes, with back pain being the most common complaint, occurring in 70% to 90% of cases. If left untreated, this pain can interfere with daily activities, cause insomnia, and even affect the childbirth process. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of back massage on reducing the intensity of back pain in third trimester pregnant women at Adow Community Health Center. Methods: The research design used a pre experimental approach with a one group pretest posttest design. The sample consisted of 40 third trimester pregnant women experiencing back pain at Adow Community Health Center. Data were analyzed using the paired t test statistical method. Results: Before receiving back massage, the majority of respondents (57.5%) experienced moderate scale pain. After the intervention, the majority of respondents (70%) reported a reduction in pain to a mild scale. The statistical test results showed a p value of 0.000 (p < 0.05) with an average pain reduction of 1.125. Conclusion: Back massage has a significant effect on reducing the intensity of back pain in third trimester pregnant women at Adow Community Health Center.

Background: Suboptimal breast milk production during the postpartum period remains a major barrier to successful exclusive breastfeeding. Various non-pharmacological interventions have been developed to address this issue, including oxytocin massage, which is believed to stimulate the release of the oxytocin hormone and facilitate milk ejection. However, findings regarding its effectiveness remain varied, highlighting the need for a comprehensive synthesis of scientific evidence. Objective: This study aims to review and synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of oxytocin massage in increasing breast milk production among postpartum mothers. Methods: A literature review with a narrative review approach was conducted using articles from Google Scholar, PubMed, and Garuda databases published between 2021 and 2025. Keywords included oxytocin massage, breast milk production, and postpartum mothers. Inclusion criteria were original research articles involving postpartum mothers receiving oxytocin massage interventions with full-text access. Article selection followed the PRISMA flow, resulting in 12 eligible studies analyzed narratively. Results: Most studies reported that oxytocin massage improves breast milk production and milk flow, indicated by increased milk volume, improved let-down reflex, higher breastfeeding frequency, and adequate infant intake. The effect is associated with parasympathetic stimulation that promotes oxytocin release and maternal relaxation. Conclusion: Oxytocin massage is a safe and practical complementary intervention to support breast milk production, although further studies with stronger experimental designs are needed.

Background: Comprehensive midwifery care is essential for early detection of complications and reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. In Sleman Regency, despite high access to health services, continuous monitoring remains crucial for ensuring maternal and fetal safety. Objective: To provide comprehensive midwifery care for Mrs. M at Klinik Pratama Shaqi, Sleman, from the third trimester of pregnancy through the postpartum and neonatal periods. Methods: This is a descriptive qualitative study using a case study approach based on Varney's seven-step midwifery management and SOAP documentation. Findings: During pregnancy (37 weeks 6 days), the mother experienced physiological complaints of back pain and shortness of breath, managed through posture education and pregnancy exercises. Labor proceeded normally and spontaneously on October 6, 2024, utilizing "gentle birth" practices such as endorphin massage to reduce pain. A second-degree perineal tear occurred and was treated according to procedure. The baby was born healthy, weighing 3100 grams, with successful Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (EIB). During the postpartum and neonatal periods, uterine involution was normal, breast milk production was adequate, and the infant's growth met standards with no danger signs. Implications: Continuous assistance improves the mother's physical and psychological readiness and ensures a healthy neonatal transition.

Background: Normal labor is influenced by Power, His, maternal strength, external pelvic passage, pelvic shape, pelvic width, and perineal elasticity, which affect labor.Objective: To determine the effect of perineal massage and peanut ball on labor progress.Method: This study used a quasi-experimental design with two groups and a posttest only. The sample consisted of 30 mothers in labor, divided into two groups: 15 respondents received perineal massage and 15 respondents received perineal massage and used a peanut ball. Data were analyzed using an Independent T-Test. Results: The study showed that the average duration of the first stage of active labor in the perineal massage group was 6.87 hours, while in the combination group of perineal massage and peanut ball it was 5.20 hours. Statistical testing showed a value of p = 0.012 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Perineal massage and peanut balls are effective in accelerating labor as non-pharmacological midwifery interventions in labor management.

Lower back pain is one of the most common discomforts experienced by third-trimester pregnant women due to increased uterine size, postural changes, and musculoskeletal strain. Complementary therapies such as effleurage massage offer a non-pharmacological, safe, and easily applicable technique to reduce pregnancy-related pain. This study aimed to examine the effect of effleurage massage on reducing lower back pain among third-trimester pregnant women at TPMB Lina Contesa. This research employed a quasi-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design. The study was conducted from October to November 2025 involving 32 third-trimester pregnant women selected through purposive sampling. Pain intensity was measured before and after the intervention using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Effleurage massage was administered for 15–20 minutes on the lower back region following standard midwifery procedures. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. The findings showed a significant reduction in lower back pain intensity after the intervention (p < 0.001). The proportion of respondents in the moderate-pain category decreased from 65.6% to 21.9%, while those in the mild-pain category increased from 34.4% to 78.1%. The mean VAS score dropped from 5.81 ± 1.12 before intervention to 2.47 ± 1.03 after effleurage massage. Effleurage massage is effective in reducing lower back pain among third-trimester pregnant women and can be recommended as a complementary therapy in midwifery care to improve maternal comfort.

Background: Constipation is a common functional gastrointestinal problem in infants aged 6–12 months, causing discomfort, hard stools, and reduced quality of life. Non-pharmacologic interventions, such as abdominal massage, have shown promise in improving bowel function, but evidence regarding the effectiveness of the I Love You massage technique in community settings remains limited. Objective: This study aimed  examine the effectiveness of I Love You massage in reducing constipation among infants aged 6–12 months attending South Bulango Health Center. Methods: A quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group was employed. Thirty infants with functional constipation were purposively selected and divided into an intervention group (n=15) receiving daily I Love You massage for 10 minutes over seven days, and control group (n=15) receiving standard care, including dietary guidance and hydration. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with paired t-tests for within-group comparisons and independent t-tests for between-group differences. Results: The intervention group exhibited a significant increase in bowel movement frequency (2.1 ± 0.7 to 5.6 ± 0.9 per week) and improvement in stool consistency (1.2 ± 0.4 to 2.8 ± 0.5), along with a notable reduction in abdominal discomfort (6.5 ± 1.2 to 2.1 ± 0.8). In contrast, the control group showed minimal improvements. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: I Love You massage is an effective, safe, and low-cost intervention reduce constipation in infants aged 6–12 months. Its implementation in primary healthcare settings may enhance gastrointestinal function, relieve discomfort, and promote caregiver-infant interaction.

Background: Constipation is a common health problem among infants aged 6–12 months, which can lead to discomfort, feeding difficulties, and reduced quality of life. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as the I Love You (ILU) massage, have been suggested to improve bowel regularity and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort in infants. Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of ILU massage on reducing constipation in infants aged 6–12 months at the South Bulango Health Center. Methods: A pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach was applied. Data on bowel movement frequency, stool consistency, and abdominal discomfort were collected before and after the intervention using structured observation sheets and caregiver questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using paired t-tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The results showed a significant increase in bowel movement frequency from 2.1 ± 0.8 times per week before the intervention to 4.5 ± 1.0 times per week after the intervention (p = 0.000). Stool consistency improved from a mean Bristol score of 2.0 ± 0.6 to 4.0 ± 0.7 (p = 0.000), and abdominal discomfort decreased from 3.5 ± 1.0 to 1.2 ± 0.8 (p = 0.000). These findings indicate that ILU massage effectively alleviates constipation symptoms in infants. Conclusion: ILU massage is an effective, safe, and non-invasive method to reduce constipation in infants aged 6–12 months. Involving caregivers in the intervention enhances its effectiveness and supports parent–child bonding, making it suitable for integration into routine infant care at community health centers.

Background: Stroke is a medical condition characterized by a disruption in blood flow to the brain, most commonly resulting in ischemic stroke, which accounts for 70%–85% of all stroke cases. Prolonged immobility in stroke patients increases the risk of pressure ulcers. Effective prevention strategies Include regular repositioning and meticulous skin care. Effleurage massage, when combined with Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), enhances blood circulation and skin hydration, thereby potentially reducing the risk of impaired skin integrity. Objective: To analyze the management of a non-hemorrhagic stroke patient Through the application of Effleurage Massage therapy using Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) to reduce the risk of skin integrity impairment. Methods: This case study involved a non-hemorrhagic stroke patient who was observed during hospital visits over a three-day period. Effleurage massage using VCO was applied twice daily—once in the morning and once at night. Skin integrity was assessed before and after the intervention using the Braden Scale Results: A decrease in the risk of skin integrity impairment was observed following the intervention, as evidenced by improved Braden Scale scores. Conclusion: Effleurage Massage using Virgin Coconut Oil may serve as an effective complementary therapy to reduce the risk of skin integrity Impairment in non-hemorrhagic stroke patients.

Stroke patients often experience mobility impairments, which increase the risk of developing pressure ulcers (decubitus). Pressure ulcers are a common complication for patients with limited mobility, especially in the ICU. One intervention that can be used to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers is back massage using olive oil. This study aims to analyze the effect of back massage using olive oil on reducing the risk of pressure ulcers in stroke patients in the ICU at Sultan Agung Hospital. This study used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach, involving 17 respondents who received back massage using olive oil. The results showed that most respondents were aged 56-65 years (35.3%), the majority were male (70.6%), with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (52.9%), and the length of hospitalization was 3-5 days. Before the intervention, most respondents were categorized as being at moderate risk based on the Braden scale; however, after the intervention, the majority were no longer at risk of pressure ulcers. The Wilcoxon test showed a p-value of 0.001, indicating that back massage using olive oil had a significant effect on reducing the risk of pressure ulcers. In conclusion, back massage using olive oil is effective in reducing the risk of pressure ulcers in stroke patients in the ICU. Therefore, this technique can be used as an alternative intervention to prevent the occurrence of pressure ulcers in stroke patients.

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is abdominal pain, cramps and back pain experienced by women at the beginning of menstruation for 48-72 hours. This condition is most often experienced by women in their late teens to young adults (15-25 years) due to optimization of uterine function so that prostaglandin secretion increases. In Indonesia, the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea reaches 54.89%, with a significant impact on adolescent activities. One of the effective non-pharmacological methods to overcome primary dysmenorrhea is abdominal effleurage massage, which is performed directly on the site of pain so that endogenous analgesics (endorphins) are released and pain transmission to the cerebral cortex is inhibited. Purposes: To analyze the effect of abdominal effleurage massage on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Research method: This study used a quantitative method with a pre-experimental one group pretest posttest design method. The population of this study was 45 adolescents. The sample was taken using a simple random sampling technique of 21 female students who experienced primary dysmenorrhea. Data collection was carried out using the NRS (Numeric Rating Scale) pain scale observation sheet. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: Based on the analysis test using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, a significance value of 0.00 (p <0.05) was obtained, which means Ha was accepted. In other words, abdominal effleurage massage has an effect on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Conclusion: There is an effect of abdominal effleurage massage on reducing primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents.

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.

Background: Normal delivery is a significant moment in a mother's life, marked by the expulsion of the fetus after a full-term pregnancy, typically between 37 to 40 weeks, accompanied by intense uterine contractions. During the active phase of labor, mothers often experience peak pain due to increased frequency and strength of these contractions. One effective method to alleviate this pain is through counter pressure massage. This study aims to explore the differences in pain intensity among mothers in the active phase of labor before and after the application of counter pressure massage at RSU Permata Hati Klungkung. Method: This study used a pre-experimental design and purposive sampling technique. The population in this study were all mothers who underwent normal delivery in September to November 2024 with a total of 80 people, until a sample of 39 participants was determined. Data were collected through observations using a rating scale based on the Numerical Rating Score. Result: Data analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon test, revealing that the average pain score before the massage was 6.92, which decreased to 3.20 afterward. The Wilcoxon test yielded a p-value of 0.001, indicating a significant difference in labor pain intensity. Conclusion: This study shows that there is a difference in pain intensity before and after counter pressure massage is performed on mothers giving birth in the first active phase at Permata Hati Hospital, Klungkung with a p-value of 0.001.

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.

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.