The Effect of Infant Massage on Postpartum Depression and Maternal Attachment: A Literature Review

Abstract

The postpartum period can be both exciting and challenging for mothers. During this time, women may potentially experience postpartum depression (PPD) due to various factors such as hormonal changes, breastfeeding and sleep problems, increased stress load, infant care, and adjustment to maternal roles. PPD poses a serious risk to both maternal and infant health. Infant massage, with its positive effects on PPD and maternal attachment, has been encouraged as a practice taught to mothers in recent years. This review examines the effects of infant massage on mothers during the postpartum period. Findings suggest that infant massage may be an effective method in reducing PPD symptoms and strengthening maternal attachment. By enhancing the emotional bond between mother and baby, reducing stress, and increasing oxytocin levels, infant massage contributes to alleviating symptoms of PPD. It is important for nurses to educate and promote infant massage among mothers during the postpartum period. Infant massage may play a significant role in reducing PPD risk and enhancing mother-infant attachment. Further research could evaluate the long-term effects of infant massage and its effects on mothers from different demographic groups in more detail. This review demonstrates that infant massage is a beneficial practice for mothers during the postpartum period and highlights the importance of nurses promoting this practice.