This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effect of breast massage using the Marmet technique on breastfeeding problems and breastfeeding self-efficacy in postpartum women. Breastfeeding difficulties such as nipple pain, latch problems, and perceived insufficient milk are common in the early postpartum period and may lead to early cessation of breastfeeding. The Marmet technique is a manual breast massage method designed to stimulate milk flow and relieve mechanical difficulties during breastfeeding.
In this study, postpartum women were randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving Marmet technique training and application or a control group receiving routine breastfeeding care. Outcomes were assessed at 24 hours and on the 15th postpartum day using validated scales. The findings are expected to contribute to improving breastfeeding support practices and maternal confidence in breastfeeding.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 49 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Women aged 18 to 49 years
* Able to read and write in Turkish
* Voluntary agreement to participate in the study
* Delivered a healthy full-term infant
* Had a spontaneous vaginal birth
* Actively breastfeeding during the postpartum period
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of a clinically serious breastfeeding problem in the mother or infant during the early postpartum period
* Transfer of the mother or infant to another center before completion of the first data collection stage
* Inability to complete follow-up assessment on postpartum day 15 or refusal to participate in the follow-up interview
* For participants assigned to the intervention group, inability to complete the Marmet technique training at postpartum 6 hours or failure to respond to the follow-up call on postpartum day 7
* Meaningful missing or incomplete data in study forms or scales
* Withdrawal from the study at any point during the 15-day follow-up period
* Development of any unexpected maternal or neonatal health condition requiring discontinuation of breastfeeding, such as intensive care need, serious maternal infection, or infant pathology preventing sucking
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy
Timeframe: 24 hours postpartum and 15 days postpartum