A comparative study to assess the effectiveness of olive oil versus coconut oil on breast engorgement among postnatal mothers admitted in selected hospitals of Pune city

Abstract

Introduction: Breast engorgement, a common postpartum condition, occurs due to increased milk production in the first week after childbirth, causing swelling, pain, and discomfort. Natural remedies such as olive oil and coconut oil are gaining attention for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Aim of the Study: To assess and compare the effectiveness of olive oil versus coconut oil on breast engorgement among postnatal mothers in selected hospitals of Pune city. Methodology: A 2-group pre-test post-test design was adopted, involving 60 postnatal mothers with breast engorgement selected through non-probability sampling. Participants were divided equally into olive oil and coconut oil groups. Breast massage (2.5 ml oil) was applied twice daily for 5 minutes over 3 consecutive days using circular motions and gentle strokes. Breast engorgement was assessed before and after the intervention using a validated six-point observational checklist. Demographic data including age, education, occupation, parity, type of delivery, and breastfeeding status were recorded. Results: In the olive oil group, pretest mean breast engorgement score of 4.3 reduced to 1.5 post-intervention (t=17.3, p<0.05). In the coconut oil group, pretest score of 4.4 decreased to 2.3 (t=15, p<0.05). Comparative analysis revealed that the mean reduction in the olive oil group (2.8) was significantly greater than the coconut oil group (2.2) (t=2.9, p<0.05). Age, postpartum day, and day of engorgement onset were significantly associated with breast engorgement. Conclusion: Both olive oil and coconut oil massages effectively reduced breast engorgement among postnatal mothers, with olive oil showing superior results. Regular massage with olive oil is a safe, natural, and affordable intervention to enhance maternal comfort and breastfeeding outcomes.