Effects of acupressure, gum chewing and coffee consumption on the gastrointestinal system after caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia.

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of postoperative acupressure in the recovery of the gastrointestinal system (GIS) after caesarean section. A total of 160 primipara pregnant women delivered by caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia were randomised into four groups: group 1 (those who received acupressure), group 2 (coffee was provided three times a day), group 3 (chewed sugar-free gum for 15 min with an interval of 4 h from the second postoperative hour), and group 4 (control group). The first gas outflow and defaecation times of the women were compared among the groups. The first flatus and defaecation exit times of the women in the acupressure group were statistically earlier than those of the other groups. No difference was found among the gum-chewing, coffee, and control groups. Acupressure is effective in reducing the flatus and defaecation exit times due to GIS inactivity after abdominal surgery including caesarean section. Impact statement What is already known about the topic. The slowing of gastrointestinal system (GIS) motility also occurs after caesarean section aside from other surgical operations. If normal GIS movements do not occur, then several problems, such as the negative increase in the duration of breastfeeding and the mother-baby attachment during the postpartum period, may arise. Therefore, the early onset of bowel functions is important in women who give birth by caesarean section. What do the results of this study add. In the posto...
Source: Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Category: OBGYN Tags: J Obstet Gynaecol Source Type: research