Systematic Review: Oxytocin Massage More Effective than Breast Care in Supporting Exclusive Breastfeeding

Abstract

In Indonesia, the increasing maternal and infant mortality rate is a significant public health problem. During the first six months of an infant's life, exclusive breastfeeding is a proven method to reduce these numbers. Exclusive breastfeeding improves infant lifespan and maternal health in the long term. Prolactin and oxytocin, responsible for milk production and secretion, greatly influence breastfeeding success. Therefore, it is essential to explore methods that stimulate the release of these hormones, particularly oxytocin massage and breast care. Evidence suggests that oxytocin massage is more effective in enhancing the let-down reflex and improving exclusive breastfeeding outcomes. This review was conducted systematically using PRISMA guidelines. A literature search with keywords such as "prolactin," "oxytocin," and "exclusive breastfeeding" was conducted on Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases. Studies investigating the impact of interventions on hormone levels and breastfeeding success in mothers were also included in the inclusion criteria. The articles' selection determined the topic's relevance, novelty, and appropriateness. Based on the 45 studies, six met the inclusion criteria. Interventions identified included oxytocin massage, breast care, and combinations with supportive approaches such as music therapy, hypnobreastfeeding, lavender aromatherapy, emotional management, and breastfeeding relactation. These interventions were consistently associated with improved hormone release, increased milk production, and higher exclusive breastfeeding success. Oxytocin massage has been shown to improve the success of exclusive breastfeeding by increasing the levels of essential hormones in breastfeeding mothers. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of other interventions and their impact on the long-term health outcomes of mother and child. 

Keywords: oxytocin message, breast care, breastfeeding success.