Aromatherapy and Massage After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial (NCT07743736) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Aromatherapy and Massage After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Turkey (Türkiye)90 participantsStarted 2026-02-23
Plain-language summary
Cesarean delivery is a common surgical procedure associated with postoperative pain, anxiety, and reduced maternal comfort during the early postpartum period. Non-pharmacological interventions such as aromatherapy and massage have been suggested as supportive approaches for improving maternal well-being; however, further evidence is needed regarding their effectiveness after cesarean delivery.
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy inhalation and aromatherapy-assisted back massage on postoperative pain, anxiety, and postpartum comfort in women after cesarean delivery.
Participants who meet the eligibility criteria will be randomly assigned to three groups: an aromatherapy inhalation group, an aromatherapy-assisted back massage group, and a placebo group receiving sterile water inhalation as a simulation. Interventions will be initiated after cesarean delivery, and outcomes will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale for pain intensity, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for anxiety level, and the Postpartum Comfort Scale for comfort level.
This study is expected to provide information about the potential contribution of complementary non-pharmacological interventions to maternal recovery after cesarean delivery.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 40 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Women aged 18-40 years Primiparous women Undergoing cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia Term pregnancy (38-42 gestational weeks) Able to communicate and complete study questionnaires Willing to participate and provide written informed consent No known allergy to essential oils Intact sense of smell
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This trial uses aromatherapy and massage after a cesarean delivery — can you help me understand what those interventions actually involve, and whether they would be used alongside my standard pain medications or instead of them?
2Since this trial is listed as Phase NA, which often means it's studying a non-drug approach rather than a new medication, what does that mean for what's already known about the safety of aromatherapy and massage right after a C-section?
3The study is measuring postoperative pain intensity, anxiety, and comfort — if I join, how and how often would my pain and anxiety levels be assessed, and would that add significant time or procedures to my recovery period in the hospital?
4Given that I'll already be recovering from major surgery and caring for a newborn, what would participating in this trial actually require of me in terms of time, cooperation, or follow-up visits, and is that realistic for my situation?
5Before considering this trial, is there a standard care approach for managing pain and anxiety after a cesarean that I should try first, or would you recommend exploring this trial as something that could complement my routine postoperative care?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Postoperative pain intensity
Timeframe: From 6 to 42 hours after cesarean delivery (before and after each intervention session)