DESIGN AND DEVELOP BREAST MASSAGE DEVICE FOR POST-NATAL MOTHERS WITH BREAST ENGORGEMENT ADMITTED IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A DELPHI STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Breast engorgement is a common and distressing condition among postnatal mothers, particularly during the early postpartum period, causing pain, discomfort, and difficulty in breastfeeding. Inadequate management may lead to complications such as mastitis and decreased milk supply. Conventional methods often rely on proper technique and provide inconsistent relief, highlighting the need for a standardized and user-friendly intervention. Methods: A research and development design was employed to develop and evaluate a breast massage device for managing breast engorgement. The device was designed and validated using the Delphi technique through multiple rounds of expert review. The study was conducted among postnatal mothers in a tertiary care hospital in Navi Mumbai using non probability sampling. Data were collected using a demographic proforma, a checklist of existing practices, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain assessment, and a breast engorgement scale. The effectiveness of the device, incorporating controlled heat and gentle vibration, was evaluated through pre- and post-intervention comparisons using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of breast engorgement among participants. The device demonstrated strong content validity based on expert consensus. A statistically significant reduction in pain and engorgement levels was observed following the intervention. Additionally, the device was found to be feasible and well accepted by postnatal mothers. Discussion: The breast massage device proved to be an effective, safe, and non-invasive intervention for managing breast engorgement. It provides a standardized approach that enhances maternal comfort and promotes effective breastfeeding. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to improve generalizability.