Early maternal feeding following caesarean delivery: a prospective randomised study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of early maternal feeding on maternal satisfaction and gastrointestinal complications on patients following simple and complicated caesarean delivery (CD).

Methods: A prospective, randomised study was designed including 179 women undergoing first or repeated CD. Women who were assigned to the early feeding group received clear fluids and solid food within 8 h of surgery, in accordance with their request. The traditionally fed women received clear fluids 8-12 h after the surgery subsequent to physician examination confirming bowel sounds.

Results: Some 82 women were assigned to the traditionally fed group and 97 women were assigned to the early fed group. Maternal satisfaction was significantly higher among the early fed women. No significant differences were noted between the groups regarding post-operative complications.

Conclusions: Early maternal feeding following CD is associated with higher maternal satisfaction. However, it is not associated with higher rates of post-operative complications.