[Evaluating the effect of oral bromelain [pineapple] on episiotomy wound healing in primiparus women]

ABSTRACT

Episiotomy is the most common perineal incision in midwifery to facilitate the expulsion of the fetus. Perineal damages cause disability in many normal daily activities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of bromelain on episiotomy wound healing in primiparus women. In this double-blind clinical trial study, 82 primiparus women referred to Ahvaz Amiralmomenin hospital were randomly assigned to receive bromelain [100 mg] and placebo. The initial dose of bromelain was administered 2 hours after delivery. Tablets were given three times a day for six days. Wound healing was measured by REEDA scale on 3[th], 7[th] and 14[th] day after delivery. Data were analyzed using independent T-test, Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. The average scores of wound healing in bromelain group were significantly lower than placebo group on 3[th], 7[th] and 14[th] day after delivery [P=0.001]. There was a significant difference in total wound healing between the two groups on 14[th] day after delivery [P=0.001]. Bromelain has a significant effect on better and faster healing of episiotomy wound. Hence, it can be used to accelerate episiotomy wound healing