Effects of aromatherapy on discomfort in mothers undergoing cesarean section: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Background and Purpose

Aromatherapy, a non-pharmacological intervention involving essential oils, has been suggested as a complementary therapy for perioperative discomfort. This study seeks to systematically examine the efficacy of aromatherapy in alleviating pain and other discomforts in mothers undergoing cesarean sections.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase was conducted from inception to September 2024. Inclusion criteria involved mothers undergoing cesarean section, aromatherapy as an intervention, and outcomes such as pain, anxiety, nausea and vomiting. Subgroup analyses explored the effects of distinct control groups, essential oil, dosage, number of sessions, and session length of aroma preparations. Statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3, with heterogeneity assessed using the Q test and I² statistic.

Results

Seventeen studies involving 1490 participants were included. Aromatherapy significantly reduced post-cesarean pain (SMD = −1.19, 95 % CI [-1.93, −0.45], p = 0.002). Chamomile oil, low dosage (≤2 drops), single session and sessions lasting 20 min or less were more effective in relieving pain. Aromatherapy significantly decreased nausea incidence (RR = 0.52, 95 % CI [0.33, 0.81], p = 0.004), reduced analgesic requirements (RR = 0.60, 95 % CI [0.49, 0.73], p < 0.00001), and improved patient satisfaction (RR = 1.64, 95 % CI [1.26, 2.12], p = 0.0002).

Conclusion

Aromatherapy effectively reduces post-cesarean pain, nausea, analgesic use, and improves patient satisfaction. Chamomile oil, low doses (≤2 drops), single session and short length (≤20 min) seems to be the most effective method for alleviating post-cesarean pain.