THE EFFECT OF ALTERNATING APPLICATION OF COLD AND HOT COMPRESS ON PAINFUL BREAST ENGORGEMENT AMONG POSTNATAL MOTHERS AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of alternating hot and cold compresses on painful breast engorgement among postnatal mothers. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 142 postnatal mothers following cesarean delivery at Queen Mary Hospital, KGMU. Participants were assigned to an experimental group (n=71) and a control group (n=71). Breastfeeding outcomes were assessed using the Bristol Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (BBAT), LATCH score, pain scale, and Six-Point Breast Engorgement Scale. The experimental group received alternating hot and cold compresses. Results: Post-intervention, the experimental group demonstrated significantly improved BBAT and LATCH scores and significantly reduced pain and breast engorgement scores compared with the control group (p < .001). Conclusions: Alternating hot and cold compresses effectively reduce breast engorgement and pain while improving breastfeeding outcomes among postnatal mothers.