The Effect of Reflexology on Lactation and Postpartum Comfort in Caesarean-Delivery Primiparous Mothers: A Randomized Controlled Study

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of reflexology on lactation and postpartum comfort in primiparas giving births through caesarean section. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in 100 women with first birth through caesarean section between May 2016 and May 2017. Expectant mothers were randomly included into an intervention and a control group. The intervention group consisted of mothers in whom reflexology was performed three times per day at every eight hours for 30 min for 3 days. Results: The mean scores of the breastfeeding chart system and breastfeeding satisfaction scores of the mothers in the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the controls, and the first lactation period of the mothers in the intervention group was shorter than that of the controls. Mean breast-tension, breast-heat, and breast-pain scores were similar in both groups on day 1; however, a significant increase was seen the intervention group on days 2 and 3, compared to those in the controls. The mean scores of the Postpartum Comfort Questionnaire in the intervention group were significantly better than those of the controls. Conclusions: Reflexology starts lactation earlier in mothers giving birth via caesarean section, supports the breastfeeding period, and increases mothers' postpartum comfort.