Effect of the Marmet Technique on Breastfeeding Problems and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in Postpartum Women

Breastfeeding is essential for optimal infant growth and maternal health; however, many women experience physical and psychological challenges during the early postpartum period. Common breastfeeding problems include nipple pain, breast engorgement, latch difficulties, and concerns about insufficient milk supply. These challenges may negatively affect breastfeeding continuation and maternal confidence.

Breastfeeding self-efficacy, defined as a mother's confidence in her ability to breastfeed successfully, is a key determinant of breastfeeding duration and success. Interventions that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of breastfeeding are therefore critically important.

The Marmet technique is a manual breast massage and expression method that supports milk ejection reflex, improves milk flow, and helps relieve blocked ducts without requiring equipment. It may also enhance maternal autonomy and confidence in breastfeeding management.

This study was designed as a randomized controlled, longitudinal trial conducted in a hospital setting. A total of 104 postpartum women were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received individualized training and application of the Marmet technique in the early postpartum period, while the control group received routine breastfeeding care.

Data were collected at postpartum 24 hours and day 15 using a Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale and a Breastfeeding Problems Assessment Scale. The primary aim was to evaluate the effect of the Marmet technique on breastfeeding problems and self-efficacy levels over time. The study also explored factors influencing breastfeeding self-efficacy in the postpartum period.

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