Effect of Lukewarm Water Compresses Versus Cold Gel Packs on Breast Engorgement Among Puerperal Women

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor Obstetrics and Gynecologic Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Egypt

2 Assistant Professor Obstetrics and Gynecologic Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University, Egypt

Abstract

Breast engorgement can cause breastfeeding difficulties. Different non-pharmacological methods to relieve breast engorgement have been attempted and investigated. The aim of the study was to assess theeffect of lukewarm water compresses versus cold gel packs on breast engorgement among puerperal women.Subject and method: A quasi-experimental research design was utilized. This study was conducted at the Obstetric and Gynecologic Department of Damanhur National Medical Institution at El-BehiraGovernorate. A convenient sample of 80 puerperal women was recruited according to inclusion criteria. The selected women were assigned randomly and equally into two groups; group 1 (lukewarm water compresses) and group 2 (cold gel packs). Three tools were used to collect the necessary data (basic data structured interview schedule, Six-Point self-rated engorgement scale and Visual Analogue Scale. Results: According to the breast engorgement rating scale, a highly statistically significant difference (P=0.000) was found between the two groups after the 2nd intervention day. Conclusion: breast engorgement and pain intensity were significantly reduced after the second intervention day among lukewarm water compresses group, compared to the cold gel packs group. Recommendations: nurses should be trained to advise women during their discharge teaching plan about lukewarm water compresses application to relieve breast engorgement.

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