Effect of acupressure on bowel function recovery after cesarean section: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim: This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effect of acupressure on recovery of bowel function after cesarean section (CS). Methods: Forty-eight pregnant women who underwent CS at Rajavithi Hospital between December 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021, were recruited and randomly assigned into two groups: 24 participants in the study group and 24 participants in the control group. The study group received two acupressure sessions: one three hours after CS and another three hours after the initial session. The acupoint used was Zusanli (located on the stomach meridian, ST-36), and each acupressure session lasted 10 minutes. In contrast, participants in the control group followed the standard feeding protocol without receiving acupressure. The primary endpoint measured was the time to the first flatus. Secondary endpoints included the time to the first bowel sound, first defecation, the severity of nausea/vomiting, length of hospital stays, and adverse events related to acupressure, including soreness, bruising, and discomfort. Results: Participants in the acupressure group had a significantly shorter time to the first flatus, first bowel sound, first defecation, and experienced milder nausea/vomiting compared to those in the control group. However, no statistically significant difference in the length of hospital stays and no adverse events related to acupressure were observed. Conclusions: Acupressure, a non-invasive, feasible, and safe approach, has demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting faster recovery of bowel function in women undergoing CS. Therefore, we recommended it as an adjunct postoperative care method to reduce the incidence of postoperative ileus after CS. Trial registration: Clinical trial registration number: NCT04620850