Effect of Compression Stockings on Morning Sickness among Primigravidas

Abstract

Background: Morning sickness during pregnancy can range from mild discomfort to significant morbidity that leads to certain complications for mother and fetus. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of compression stockings on morning sickness among primigravidas. Materials and Method: A Quazi experimental research design was used. The study was conducted at the obstetric outpatient clinic of National Medical Institute in Damanhour, El-Behiera Governorate. A purposeful sample of 80 pregnant women was recruited. Subjects who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were assigned to one of the two equal groups: study and control group. Four tools of data collection were used: A structured interview questionnaire, visual analogue scale (VAS) for severity of nausea and vomiting, (NVPQOL) nausea, vomiting pregnancy quality of life and pregnancy unique quantification of emesis and vomiting (PUQE). Results: There was a highly statistically significant differences after two weeks intervention between the study and control group regarding the severity of nausea and vomiting, (P=0.000).There was severe effect of morning sickness on women's quality of life among both study and control group before intervention (77.5% and 75%) respectively. However, there was a greater improvement after the period of compression among the study group and there was a statistically significant differences between the study and control groups post intervention, P=.000. Conclusion: From the results of the current study, it can be concluded that morning sickness decreased among women who used compression stockings for two weeks during early pregnancy. Recommendation: Emphasize the use of compression stockings in the nonpharmacological protocol for the treatment of NVP as an effective strategy for such a problem.