Utilization of Olive Oil as a Breast Care Medium to Support Breast Milk Flow for Mrs. N

Abstract

Low breast milk production is a major problem often experienced by new mothers, in addition to issues such as inverted or flat nipples, breast engorgement, babies refusing to breastfeed due to improper techniques, or infants with tongue-tie conditions. However, the most frequently reported issue is poor milk flow. A lack of awareness regarding proper breast care significantly contributes to this problem, resulting in suboptimal milk production. To overcome this, consistent breast care is necessary. One possible intervention is the use of olive oil as a medium to facilitate breast care. Objective: To determine the effect of breast care using olive oil on postpartum mothers. Research Method: This paper used a case study approach with a descriptive method and explanatory analysis techniques to determine the cause-and-effect relationship of breast care using olive oil. Various data collection techniques were employed, including observation, interviews, and documentation, involving Mrs. N, a 27-year-old postpartum mother on the 7th day after delivery, residing in Pasinggangan Village, Banyumas Regency. The intervention consisted of daily breast care using olive oil, applied once per day. The results showed an improvement in milk flow after the intervention. Based on these findings, routine breast care using olive oil can be considered a supportive method to enhance breast milk production in postpartum mothers.