Lavender Sandalwood Aromatherapy Study

Aromatherapy represents a holistic, patient-centered approach designed to enhance comfort, relaxation, and sleep for individuals receiving medical care. This method is both cost-effective and associated with minimal side effects, making it an appealing option as a complementary therapy. For centuries, essential oils have been incorporated into care routines to help relieve a variety of symptoms, including pain, anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Their use is especially prominent during significant life events such as pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period, where they support emotional and physical well-being.

This randomized controlled trial has been designed to assess the therapeutic effects of Lavender Sandalwood Elequil Aromatabs in women scheduled for planned cesarean sections. In this study, participants in the experimental group will receive self-adhesive aromatherapy tabs containing a blend of lavender and sandalwood essential oils. These tabs are conveniently placed on hospital gowns and are intended to deliver continuous aromatic benefits for up to 24 hours following surgery, in addition to the standard post-operative care provided. Participants in the control group, on the other hand, will receive only the standard care without aromatherapy exposure.

The primary objectives of this study are to evaluate changes in emotional well-being, pain perception, and overall patient satisfaction among cesarean-section patients. Emotional states will be measured using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), which captures both positive and negative mood dimensions. Pain levels will be assessed with the Defense Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS), a validated tool for quantifying pain intensity. Additionally, the Net Promoter Score (NPS) will be used to gauge patient satisfaction with their care experience. Collectively, these measures will offer comprehensive insights into how aromatherapy may contribute to improved recovery and holistic well-being during the post-surgical period.

Inclusion criteria

• To be eligible for participation in the study, individuals must have a cesarean section scheduled in advance and must be admitted to the postpartum unit following their delivery. Additionally, potential participants are required to undergo pre-admission testing. Patients who meet all these conditions-having a planned cesarean procedure, admission to the postpartum unit after delivery, and completion of pre-admission testing within the specified days-will be considered for enrollment in the study.

Exclusion criteria

• Individuals will be excluded from participation in the study if they meet any of the following criteria: First, patients who have an allergy or hypersensitivity to essential oils, including but not limited to lavender or sandalwood, will not be eligible due to the potential risk of adverse reactions associated with exposure to these substances. Second, participants whose newborns require admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) following delivery will be excluded, as this circumstance may impact maternal mood and recovery, potentially confounding the study outcomes. Third, patients who are admitted to the labor and delivery unit before their scheduled cesarean section procedure will not be considered for enrollment, since the study is specifically designed for individuals undergoing planned cesarean deliveries and admitted directly to the postpartum unit.