Effect of Electroacupuncture on Bowel Function and Quality of Life in Postpartum Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

NCT07572786 | Not Yet Recruiting

• 1 other identifier: EA constipation
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 60
• Locations: 0 countries
• Sites: N/A

Brief Summary

Postpartum constipation is a common condition affecting women after childbirth, leading to discomfort and reduced quality of life. Pharmacological treatments may have side effects and are sometimes avoided during breastfeeding. Electroacupuncture is a safe, non-pharmacological intervention that may improve bowel motility. However, limited evidence exists regarding its effectiveness in postpartum women, necessitating further investigation

Conditions

Postpartum Constipation

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (2)

• Bristol Stool Form Scale

  This scale will be used to assess stool consistency, which is classified into seven distinct types ranging from hard lumps to entirely liquid stool. It is considered an important indicator of intestinal transit time. The Bristol Stool Form Scale is widely validated and demonstrates high reliability and reproducibility in clinical and research settings. In this study, it will be used as a primary outcome measure to evaluate changes in bowel habits, either independently or alongside bowel movement frequency.

  6 weeks

• Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QOL)

  This questionnaire will be used to evaluate the impact of constipation on patients' daily life, including physical discomfort, psychosocial effects, and overall satisfaction. The PAC-QOL has excellent psychometric properties, including strong validity and reliability. In this study, it will be used as a secondary outcome measure to assess improvements in quality of life following the intervention.

  6 weeks

Study Arms (2)

electro acupuncture group

EXPERIMENTAL

Participants in this group will receive electroacupuncture therapy applied to Quchi (LI11) and Shangjuxu (ST37) acupoints plus abdominal exercises Treatment will be administered \[12 sessions per week\] for \[6 weeks\], with each session lasting approximately \[30 minutes\]. The intervention aims to improve bowel function in postpartum constipation.

Other: electroacupuncture; Other: abdominal exercises for constipation

control group

ACTIVE COMPARATOR

Participants in this group will perform a structured abdominal exercise program designed to improve bowel motility. Exercises will be conducted \[12 sessions per week\] for \[6 weeks\], with each session lasting approximately \[20 minutes\].

Other: abdominal exercises for constipation

Interventions

electroacupuncture OTHER

This study is expected to contribute significantly to maternal healthcare in Egypt by addressing postpartum constipation, a common yet often neglected condition affecting women after childbirth. Constipation can negatively impact quality of life, causing discomfort, pain, and psychological distress. Electroacupuncture offers a safe, non-pharmacological, and cost-effective treatment alternative. This is particularly important for postpartum women who may avoid medications due to breastfeeding concerns or side effects. The findings of this study may support the integration of electroacupuncture into routine postpartum care in Egypt, especially within physical therapy and rehabilitation programs. It may also help reduce dependence on laxatives and improve patient satisfaction.

electro acupuncture group

abdominal exercises for constipation OTHER

Static Abdominal Contractions Lie on your back in "crook lying" (knees bent, feet flat). Gently contract all abdominal muscles (as if bracing for a light punch), hold 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat. Keep breathing normally. This strengthens the abdominal wall to improve bowel support and tone. Activation and exercise of the transverse abdominis muscle has been noted as important, as it brings together the bellies of the rectus abdominus muscle, improving the integrity of the linea alba and increasing fascial tension. While studied primarily for diastasis recti, these exercises engage the deep core and can support improved abdominal function overall.

control group; electro acupuncture group

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 20 Years - 40 Years
• Gender Eligibility Details: postpartum constipated females
• Healthy Volunteers: Yes
• Age Groups: Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Females aged 20-40 years
• Within 6 weeks postpartum
• Diagnosed with constipation
• Willing to participate

You may not qualify if:

• History of gastrointestinal disorders
• Previous colorectal surgery
• Neurological diseases affecting bowel function
• Contraindications to acupuncture (tumor, scar or keloids \& spinal instability ).

Sponsors & Collaborators

• MTI University: lead

MeSH Terms

Interventions

Electroacupuncture

Intervention Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Combined Modality Therapy; Therapeutics; Acupuncture Therapy; Complementary Therapies; Electric Stimulation Therapy; Physical Therapy Modalities; Rehabilitation; Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation; Analgesia; Anesthesia and Analgesia; Anesthesia

Central Study Contacts

shaimaa MH elmarakby

CONTACT

01008585299; shaimaa.mohamed@pt.mti.edu.eg

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: SINGLE
• Who Masked: OUTCOMES ASSESSOR
• Masking Details: The study is assessor-blinded. The individual responsible for outcome evaluation will not be informed of group allocation. Participants and therapists delivering the interventions will be aware of the assigned treatment due to the practical limitations of the study design.
• Purpose: TREATMENT
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Lecturer

Model Details: Participants will be randomized into two parallel groups: an electroacupuncture group and a control group that will receive abdominal exercises. Both groups will undergo interventions over the same period, and outcomes will be evaluated before and after treatment.

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: May 1, 2026
• First Posted: May 7, 2026
• Study Start (Estimated): May 20, 2026
• Primary Completion (Estimated): August 20, 2026
• Study Completion (Estimated): October 20, 2026
• Last Updated: May 7, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-05