[The use of intestinal enema in labor preparation: analysis of advantages and disadvantages]

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the effects of intestinal cleansers on fecal contamination during labor and delivery amongst women assisted in a university hospital. The subjects were 90 pregnant women (43 normal births, 27 forceps and 20 caesarean sections). The population was divided in two randomized groups: with and without the use of intestinal cleansers. It was possible to conclude that intestinal cleansers did not provide faster labor and did not reduce fecal contamination. However, the women who had used an intestinal cleanser tended to regard it as positive.