Prevalence and Perceptions of Infant Massage Practices in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, India

Understanding prevailing infant care practices and their impacts is essential for enhancing public programs. While infant massage is a traditional practice in India, it has not been extensively researched. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and perceptions of infant massage in Maharashtra (MH) and Madhya Pradesh (MP) states. 

This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2018, which included 1,497 caregivers of children under 18 months. These caregivers were interviewed at immunization units in MH and MP, as well as through home visits in MH.

The results of the study showed:

• Infant massage was highly prevalent, reported by 93.8% of caregivers in both states, with 97.9% in MH and 85.3% in MP, showing no significant distinction between male (94.5%) and female (93.5%) infants.
• Most massages started within the first week of life (82%), and it was commonly performed once daily (77%), often before bathing (77%) or after feeding (57%). 
• Oils were primarily used (97%), with sesame oil-based products (36%) and coconut oil (18%) being preferred in MH, while olive (29%) and mustard oil (20%) were popular in MP.
• The most frequently application techniques included gentle massage, pressing (30%), and joint stretching (60%). 
• Caregivers commonly believed that massage strengthens bones, improves sleep and growth, and perceived no harm (95%).

To conclude, Infant oil massage is a prevalent traditional practice in MH and MP. However, there is a need for optimal guidelines regarding massage techniques, oil selection, and application methods to enhance benefits and reduce risks associated with this common practice.

Source: Chaturvedi S, Randive B, Pathak A, Agarkhedkar S, Tillu G, Darmstadt GL, Patwardhan B. Prevalence and perceptions of infant massage in India: study from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh states. BMC Pediatr. 2020 Nov 9;20(1):512. doi: 10.1186/s12887-020-02416-y. PMID: 33167905; PMCID: PMC7650175.