Nurul Khalifah
Department Midwifery Professional Study Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wiraraja University, Sumenep, East Java, Indonesia

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Postpartum Mothers’ Experiences of Consuming Traditional Herbal Medicine: Phenomenological Study to Increase Breast Milk Production among the Madurese, Indonesia Yulia Wardita; Dian Permatasari; Eka Meiri Kurniyati; Nurul Khalifah
Jurnal Promkes: The Indonesian Journal of Health Promotion and Health Education Vol. 14 No. SI2 (2026): Jurnal Promkes: The Indonesian Journal of Health Promotion and Health Educat
Publisher : Universitas Airlangga

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Abstract

Background: The postpartum period is a challenging time for mothers. One common challenge during this period is low breast milk production, which can be caused by various internal and external factors. East Java Province reported that the lowest percentage of breast milk for children aged 0-23 months (toddlers) came from Sumenep Regency, namely 76.9%. Objective: To explore the experiences of postpartum mothers in consuming traditional herbal medicine to increase breast milk production. Method: This study used a qualitative design with a phenomenological approach. Eight informants were involved, including postpartum mothers, traditional herbal medicine sellers, midwives, and community leaders. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Results: The results of the study indicate that traditional herbal medicine is commonly consumed by postpartum mothers. It is typically consumed 1–2 days after childbirth to stimulate breast milk production. The traditional herbal medicine is composed of natural ingredients, including Javanese turmeric (temulawak), turmeric, and ginger, and is consumed twice daily. This practice has been passed down through generations and is introduced by family members and the community. The benefits experienced by mothers include smooth breast milk flow, a refreshed body, and a warm sensation in the stomach, which are generally felt 2–7 days after consuming the herbal medicine. Mild side effects, such as bloating, occur in a small number of mothers and can be managed by reducing the dosage. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. This study received ethical re-approval from the ethics committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Wiraraja University, with Number: 599.1/KEPK/VII/2025. Conclusion: Traditional herbal medicine remains trusted and is widely consumed among the Madurese because it has a positive effect on breast milk production.