Effect of Scraping Technique (Gua-Sha) on Breast Engorgement among Primi Post-Natal Women

Abstract

Background: Breast engorgement is a common problem that prevents women from initiating and maintaining breastfeeding. The number of recommended interventions to treat breast engorgement is insufficient. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of scraping technique (Gua-Sha) on breast engorgement among primi post-natal women. Design: A non-randomized controlled clinical trial design was used. Subjects: A convenient sample of 80 primi-postnatal women was recruited from the National Medical Institute's postnatal unit in Damanhour, El-Behiera Governorate. Five tools were used to collect data; Tool I: Basic data structured interview questionnaire; Tool II: A visual analogue scale (VAS) for severity of breast engorgement; Tool III: A six-point engorgement evaluation; Tool IV: Assessment of breast redness and edema around the areola, and Tool V: A latch score record. Results: There were a highly statistically significant differences in the severity of breast engorgement pain between the intervention and control groups after post assessment 2 (P=0.000). Before intervention, both the intervention and control groups had severe breast engorgement (37.5% and 32.5%, respectively). However, the intervention group showed greater improvement in post assessment 2, and there were highly statistically significant differences between both groups P=. 000. Conclusion: The findings revealed that women who practiced the Gua-Sha technique during the early post-partum period exhibit less breast engorgement than women received routine care. Recommendations: The Gua-Sha technique should be recommended as a safe non-pharmacological method in treating breast engorgement and include it as part of postpartum women's discharge teaching plan.

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

“…According to Farag et al’s [ 28 ] results, which concurred with the findings of the current study, 37.5% of the control group practiced inadequate breastfeeding before the intervention, compared to 45% of the intervention group. Following post assessment 2, these percentages decreased to 22.5% in the control group and 0% in the intervention group.…”