Back Massage for Postpartum Fatigue and Maternity Blues After Cesarean Birth

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of back massage applied after elective cesarean birth on postpartum fatigue and maternity blues. Women were randomly assigned to either a back massage group or a control group. The intervention group received a 30-minute back massage after the first postoperative mobilization, while the control group received routine postpartum care only. Postpartum fatigue and maternity blues were assessed on the second postoperative day before discharge.

Inclusion Criteria: * Women who underwent elective cesarean birth * Women with a single healthy newborn * Women who did not have a negative response to massage or touch interventions * Women with intact skin and tissue integrity in the back area where the massage was applied Exclusion Criteria: * Women with communication problems * Women who underwent cesarean birth under general anesthesia * Women diagnosed during pregnancy or birth with complications such as oligohydramnios, preeclampsia, heart disease, diabetes, or placenta previa * Women who developed postpartum complications such as hemorrhage or hypertension * Women whose newborn required admission to the neonatal intensive care unit * Women who received additional analgesic or narcotic medication other than the routine postoperative analgesic treatment