The Effect of Baby Massage on Weight Gain in Newborn Babies witf Low Birth Weight
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Low birth weight (LBW) is a major health problem affecting newborns, contributing significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This research aims to find whether there is any effect of baby massage as an intervention that can help LBW babies gain weight. The effect of baby massage on weight gain in LBW babies will be determined using this study conducted at Kota Rantauprapat Health Center in Indonesia. Using quasi-experimental method, pretest-post test with control group design, the data for this study was gathered between August 5–15, 2025. There were 72 LBW babies used in this study through purposive sampling technique. The intervention group received 15 minutes of daily baby massage for 7 consecutive days using a standardized protocol based on Indonesian Ministry of Health guidelines. Weight was measured using a calibrated digital scale before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test (α=0.05). The intervention group showed a significant increase in mean weight from 2,120±180 grams to 2,380±190 grams (mean increase: 260±65 grams, p=0.000, Cohen's d=1.43). The control group showed an average weight gain of 80 ± 50 grams (p = 0.012). Between-groups analysis revealed that there was a significant difference in weight gain (average difference = 180 grams; 95% CI = 152 to 208; p < 0.001; Cohen's d = 3.14). Baby massage has been proven very helpful for the purpose of weight gain in LBW infants. The standard 7-day procedure performed quite effectively. Baby massage should be considered for integration into routine LBW care protocols at primary healthcare facilities.
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