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The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy in the Management of Postpartum Pain Among Patients Who Underwent Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery at a Tertiary Hospital

Geoia Peralta-Amores, MD; Dr. Alice Sun-Cua, MD, FPOGS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Juan De Dios Hospital

Background: Oral administration of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs has been the mainstay for postpartum pain control in patients undergoing spontaneous vaginal delivery. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses volatile plant materials, known as essential oils, and other aromatic compounds for the purpose of altering the mood, cognitive function or health as well as in reducing sympathetic stimulation.

Objectives: To determine the effectivity of aromatherapy in the management of postpartum pain who delivered vaginally.

Methods: The study is a randomized controlled trial on 64 postpartum patients. Thirty two patients in the aromatherapy group received 2% lavender oil via face mask and another thirty two patients in the control group received unscented oil via face mask.

Results: The demographic profile of the participants demonstrated that the age, gravidity and parity of the two groups were not strong determinants in influencing pain scores while undergoing this study. The findings demonstrated with the influence of aromatherapy, a significant decrease of pain scores was observed. Aromatherapy is able to bring positive effect in the reduction of pain among post-partum patients.

Conclusion: Based on findings, aromatherapy has significant impact in the decrease of pain scores of patients especially at a longer period of exposure. Even there are various intervening factors associated to pain, aromatherapy can be a conclusive non-pharmacologic approach in helping mothers after birth.

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