A Comparative Evaluation of Cabbage Leaf Application with Hot and Cold Compresses for the Management of Breast Engorgement Among Postnatal Mothers

Abstract

Background: Breast engorgement is one of the most common postpartum breast conditions experienced by lactating mothers during the early puerperium. It is characterized by breast fullness, pain, tenderness, firmness, and edema resulting from increased vascularity and accumulation of breast milk. If not managed promptly, breast engorgement may interfere with effective breastfeeding, reduce maternal comfort, and lead to complications such as blocked ducts, mastitis, and early cessation of breastfeeding. Non-pharmacological interventions such as cabbage leaf application and hot and cold compresses are widely practiced; however, evidence comparing their effectiveness remains limited.

Objectives: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of cabbage leaves and hot and cold compresses in the treatment of breast engorgement among postnatal mothers.

Methods: A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test comparative research design was adopted. The study was conducted among 30 postnatal mothers with breast engorgement selected through purposive sampling from selected maternity hospitals. Participants were allocated into two groups of 15 mothers each. Group I received chilled cabbage leaf application, while Group II received hot and cold compresses according to the intervention protocol. Breast engorgement and pain were assessed before and after the intervention using the Six-Point Breast Engorgement Scale and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (paired t-test, independent t-test, and Chi-square test).

Results: In the illustrative dataset prepared for this manuscript, both interventions were associated with reductions in breast engorgement and pain scores following treatment. Within-group comparisons showed improvement after the interventions, while the comparative analysis between the two groups demonstrated similar effectiveness. These results are presented as a sample for manuscript preparation and should be replaced with findings from the actual study before publication.

Conclusion: Cabbage leaf application and hot and cold compresses are simple, inexpensive, safe, and non-pharmacological interventions that may help relieve breast engorgement and improve maternal comfort. The study highlights the importance of evidence-based nursing interventions in promoting successful breastfeeding and improving the quality of postpartum care.