The Effect of Virtual Reality-Based Relaxation on Breast Milk Volume and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in Mothers of Preterm Infants

The Impact of Virtual Reality-Assisted Relaxation on Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy and Breast Milk Production in Mothers of Premature Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study evaluates whether using virtual reality (VR) for relaxation helps mothers of premature babies produce more breast milk and feel more confident about breastfeeding. Mothers in the intervention group used VR headsets to watch calming nature videos while listening to music before expressing milk. The study compares their milk volume and self-efficacy scores to a control group receiving standard care.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a virtual reality (VR) relaxation intervention on breast milk production and breastfeeding confidence in mothers of premature infants.

Methodology:

• The study followed a randomized controlled design with two parallel groups.
• A total of 44 mothers whose infants were hospitalized in a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit were enrolled.
• Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group.

Intervention and Procedures:

• Intervention Group: Participants used a VR headset to watch a 10-minute video featuring nature landscapes accompanied by classical music. Following the video, the researcher performed manual milk expression for at least 20 minutes.
• Control Group: Participants sat in the same breastfeeding room but did not use the VR headset. They received the same manual milk expression procedure by the same researcher.
• The procedure was conducted once daily for three consecutive days for both groups.
• To maintain stability in milk fat content, all sessions took place between 12:00 and 14:00.

Data Collection:

• Daily milk volume was measured in milliliters using sterile containers or injectors.
• Breastfeeding self-efficacy was assessed at the end of the third day using the "Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale for Mothers of Preterm Infants".
• Demographic information was collected at the beginning of the study using a personal information form.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Mothers who have given birth to a single infant between 32 and 35 weeks of gestation.
• Mothers whose infants are hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
• Mothers who have delivered via Cesarean section.
• First-time mothers (Primiparous).
• Mothers who are willing to provide breast milk and participate in the study.
• Mothers whose infants are not yet able to breastfeed directly and require milk expression.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mothers with any systemic or psychiatric diseases.
• Mothers with obstetric complications.
• Mothers who have a history of using addictive substances.
• Mothers who use medications or herbal products to increase breast milk (galactagogues).
• Mothers with hearing or vision impairments that would prevent the use of a VR headset.
• Mothers whose infants have congenital anomalies.