Study of Early versus Delayed Oral Fluid and Food after Cesarean Section

Document Type : Original Article

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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt

Abstract

Background: A cesarean section refers to the childbirth method involving the extraction of the baby through an incision made in the abdomen and uterus. This procedure is commonly conducted and ranks among the most frequently performed surgical interventions, with a global prevalence ranging from 37% to 67%.
Aim of the work: To evaluate the impact of early maternal nutrition and gastrointestinal function following cesarean delivery.
Patients and Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, there were 100 cases in the Study group [Group A] that were allowed early feeding without considering bowel sounds, as opposed to the Control group [Group B], which included 100 cases with delayed feeding regardless of bowel sounds.
Results: There were no notable variations between the two groups in terms of BMI, age, gestational age, parity, surgical duration, blood loss, and ability to walk. However, a significant contrast was observed between the groups concerning bowel sounds and bowel movement. Group A demonstrated greater satisfaction levels compared to Group B, with statistically significant variances discerned between the groups.
Conclusion: Giving early oral nutrition after a straightforward cesarean delivery is more effective than providing early feeding without listening for bowel sounds, commencing 6 hours after the operation. It leads to faster restoration of gastrointestinal function, ambulation, shorter hospital stay, increased satisfaction, reduced vomiting and nausea, and a lower incidence of significant gastrointestinal complications compared to delayed feeding.

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