Background: The early
postoperative feeding after caesarean
section (C-
section) has remained controversial. This study was designed to evaluate the
safety and efficacy of early versus delayed postcaesarean section oral feeding
regarding gastrointestinal complications and patients postoperative satisfaction
after C-
section.
Methods: This clinical trial study was conducted on
200 pregnant women undergoing planned C-section under
spinal anesthesia (Registration Number: IRCT: 138712211760N1). Women were randomly divided in
two groups group A (early feeding group) comprised of 101 patients who were
encouraged to take oral fluid. If they tolerated, they continue semi-solid and
solid foods starting 2 h after caesarean section. Group B (delayed
feeding group) comprised of 99 patients who were given oral fluid 8 h after
surgery. After beginning of feeding the patients’ tolerance,
first flatus, first defecation, beginning of regular diet, the length of
hospital stay and also patient satisfaction level were evaluated in each group by
visual scale analog (VAS).
Results: The mean time of the first passage of flatus
was 10.2±1.7 hours for the early oral feeding group versus 10.7±1.6 hours for the
delayed feeding group and the difference was significant (P=0.03). Duration to
first defecation and length of
hospital stay as well as
patient satisfaction level did not differ significantly between the two groups.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest early postcaesarean
feeding. It is well tolerated and helps return normal feeding habits.
