Effect of lukewarm water compresses versus cold gel packs on breast engorgement among puerperal women

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 the effect 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-Behira Governorate. 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 2 nd 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.

The Effect of Alternating Application of Cold and Hot Compresses on Reduction of Breast Engorgement Among Lactating Mothers

“…Additionally, supporting the findings of the current investigation, Lamadah et al’s [ 8 ] findings showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups before and after the first intervention day. After the second intervention day, a highly statistically significant difference (P = 0.000) was found.…”

“…The findings of Kumari [ 2 ], which supported the findings of the current study, showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups in terms of sociodemographic and obstetric data. Additionally, the results of Lamadah et al [ 8 ] showed that the mean age of the group receiving lukewarm water compresses was approximately 23 years and four months and that of the group receiving cold gel packs was approximately 25 years and six months. A total of 90% and 92.5%, respectively, of participants in both categories were homemakers.…”

“…In the intervention group, before the intervention, an initial assessment of breast engorgement was conducted using a checklist. A cold gel pack (10°C to 18°C, as measured by a lotion thermometer) was placed over the engorged breast [ 8 ]. The pack was covered with a clean, dry towel and placed directly inside the mother’s bra.…”

“…Cold compresses, meanwhile, are used to reduce vascularity and pain and decrease swelling. The first nine to 16 minutes of cold therapy, including cold applications such as ice packs, cold gel packs, and frozen wet towels, initiate a cycle of vasoconstriction where blood flow and local edema are reduced, and lymphatic drainage is improved [ 8 ].…”