A Combination of Thunder-Fire Moxibustion and Shenghua Decoction Enhances Uterine Involution After Cesarean Section and Postpartum Lactation

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the therapeutic effect of thunder-fire moxibustion plus Shenghua Decoction on uterine involution after cesarean section and its influence on lactation. One hundred and twenty parturients with post-cesarean section uterine involution were recruited from our hospital between October 2021 to July 2022. Participants were grouped into A, B, C, and D groups and treated with conventional therapy, Shenghua Decoction, thunder-fire moxibustion, and Shenghua Decoction+thunder-fire moxibustion, respectively. Groups B, C and D, especially group D, had shorter duration of lochia and faster descending speed of uterine fundus height than group A. All the four groups showed decreased uterine cavity volume after treatment, with the lowest volume found in group D. In terms of clinical efficacy, group D also had better treatment outcomes than the other three groups. Furthermore, the breast fullness degree and lactation yield scores were higher in group D than other groups, whilst the four groups were not statistically different in the incidence of adverse reactions. Shorter length of maternal hospital stays, and uterus recovery time were found in group D. In summary, thunder-fire moxibustion plus Shenghua Decoction should be treatment of choice for post-cesarean section uterine involution that can promote maternal breast milk secretion.