Effectiveness of Instructional Module on Breast Problems among Post Cesarean Section Mothers

Abstract

Context: Enhancement of exclusivity of breastfeeding and increasing its duration is a recognized public health priority. Several common problems may arise during the breastfeeding period and mainly after cesarean section delivery, so assisting mothers in coping with and solving the problems may contribute to successful breastfeeding.
Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the instructional module's effectiveness on breast problems among post-cesarean section mothers. Methods: Quasi-experimental study (pre/post-test) design was used. A purposive sample of 100 women was recruited in this study, which was conducted at the Postnatal Inpatient Maternity Unit & Breast-Feeding Clinic at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. The study utilizes six tools: A structured Arabic interview questionnaire, LATCH breastfeeding charting scale, mothers’ self-care practice observational checklist, Visual Analogue Scale, Six-point breast engorgement scale, and the Nipple Trauma Score, in addition to developed supportive material (instructional module).

Results: A highly statistically significant improvement in all mothers' self-care practices in dealing with breast problems at the post and follow-up of intervention compared to pre-intervention (P <0.001). Also, there is a highly statistically significant reduction of breast problems among the study sample at the post and follow-up of intervention compared to pre-intervention (p < 0.001). The study also reveals a reduced degree of pain, breast engorgement, and nipple trauma score with highly statistically significant improvement on the total LATCH scale at the post and follow-up of intervention compared to pre-intervention (P< 0.001).

Conclusion: The present study concluded that the implementation of the instructional module has improved the mothers’ self-care practice and has a positive effect on alleviating breast problems among post-cesarean section mothers. The study recommended an educational program regarding breast problems and their related management should be included in routine care for post-cesarean women.