Women’s satisfaction in early versus delayed postcaesarean feeding: A one-blind randomized controlled trial study

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.