Press Needle Acupoint Stimulation Combined With Breast Massage on the Initiation of Lactogenesis II

Press needle acupoint stimulation and breast massage were administered. Key press needle acupoints were identified for selection: Dan zhong (RN17), bilateral Ru gen (ST18), bilateral Shao ze (SI1), bilateral Zu san li (ST36) and bilateral San yin jiao (SP6). The areas were sterilized with 75% alcohol before installing 0.22\*1.55mm press needles. Within 4-6 hours post-surgery, mothers received acupoint stimulation through needle pressing. This procedure was administered by nurses who had undergone six-month standardized training in traditional Chinese medicine techniques. Instructions were then given to mothers and their family members to stimulate the acupoints pulsatively every 3-4 hours for 20-30 minutes per session, removing the press needles after 24 hours. Additionally, a specialized nurse massaged the back, both breast areas, and armpits for 10-15 minutes, three times daily over three days, using a circular and oscillating breast massage device.

Very early skin-to-skin contact was initiated by researchers within 30 to 40 minutes after birth, with newborns, optionally wearing caps, being placed on the mothers' chests. Mothers were encouraged to breastfeed 8 to 10 times per day to ensure steady milk production. It was ensured by researchers that mothers completely emptied one breast before switching to the other to maintain cleanliness. Additionally, mothers were guided by researchers on maintaining a well-balanced diet, achieving emotional stability, and securing adequate sleep to facilitate effective breastfeeding.