The Effects of Chewing Gum and Drinking Fennel Tea on Intestinal Motility Post-Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Postoperative ileus after cesarean section prolongs hospital stays and increases perioperative costs. The impact of fennel tea and chewing gum on bowel motility remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of chewing gum and fennel tea on intestinal motility after cesarean section. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted between January 2018 and April 2018 with 120 participants divided into four groups: chewing gum, fennel tea, chewing gum plus fennel tea, and control (n = 30 per group). Bowel sounds, time to first flatulence, and defecation were recorded. Data were analyzed using statistical tests with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The chewing gum plus fennel tea group exhibited the earliest onset of bowel sounds (6.96 +/- 3.41 hours). The fennel tea group demonstrated the shortest time to first flatulence (15.47 +/- 7.77 hours) and first defecation (21.02 +/- 8.75 hours) compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Although chewing gum alone promoted enhanced bowel motility, it was less effective than fennel tea alone. No complications or adverse events were reported in any group. Conclusions: Chewing gum and fennel tea are cost-effective interventions to improve intestinal motility post-cesarean section. Incorporating these remedies into postoperative care may reduce gastrointestinal complications.