Hubungan Teknik Perlekatan Menyusui dengan Kejadian Puting Lecet pada Ibu Nifas Primipara di TPMB Esti Putri Yunita Kecamatan Jatiroto Kabupaten Lumajang

Abstract

Background: Inadequate latch may increase friction and mechanical pressure on the nipple, resulting in pain, fissures, and reluctance to continue breastfeeding. Primiparous mothers may require more intensive support because they have no previous breastfeeding experience. Objective: To analyse the association between breastfeeding latch technique and cracked nipples among primiparous postpartum mothers. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at TPMB Esti Putri Yunita, Jatiroto, from March to April 2026. All eligible primiparous mothers on postpartum days 1–7 were recruited using total sampling (n=27). Breastfeeding technique was assessed using a positioning and latch observation checklist, while nipple trauma was assessed by visual inspection. Data were analysed descriptively and using Fisher’s exact test; the magnitude of association was expressed as a prevalence ratio (PR) with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Seventeen mothers (63.0%) demonstrated an inadequate breastfeeding technique, and 22 (81.5%) had cracked nipples. All mothers with an inadequate technique had cracked nipples (17/17), compared with 50.0% of those with an adequate technique (5/10). Inadequate technique was associated with a higher prevalence of cracked nipples (PR=2.00; 95% CI 1.08–3.72; p=0.003). Conclusion: Breastfeeding latch technique was significantly associated with cracked nipples among primiparous postpartum mothers. Direct observation and early correction of latch should be incorporated into midwifery care, while the cross-sectional design and small sample size should be considered when interpreting the findings.