Investigating the Impact of Sumac Capsules on Postpartum Bleeding among Women at Risk of Bleeding: a three-blind randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives: Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence suggests that the sumac plant possesses astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce menstrual bleeding. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of sumac capsules on postpartum bleeding among women at risk of excessive bleeding.Methods: This randomized, triple-blind clinical trial was conducted in 2022-2023. Participants were 72 women who were referred for vaginal delivery to the 9th Day Hospital in Torbat Heydariyeh city, Iran. Participants were randomly divided into two groups immediately after delivery, the placebo group received routine care. The intervention group, in addition to routine care, received two oral capsules of 500 mg sumac immediately after the expulsion of the placenta and fetal membranes, as well as two hours later. The amount of bleeding was measured using plastic bags for blood collection, which were weighed along with the sheets and pads used at hours 1, 2, 3, and 4 postpartum. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. 65 women completed the study.Results: The sumac group exhibited lower mean bleeding volumes than the placebo group at all measured time points (first, second, third, and fourth hours after delivery). The independent t-test analysis revealed significant differences between the two groups’ bleeding volume at the end of the first hour (p = 0.013), second hour (p < 0.001), third hour (p < 0.001), and fourth hour (p < 0.001); that was less in sumac group. Overall, the sumac group demonstrated a significantly lower mean total bleeding volume in the first four hours after delivery (215.78 ± 16.92 cc) compared to the placebo group (261.51 ± 17.258 cc) (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Sumac capsules can be considered as a potentially effective and safe intervention for reducing postpartum bleeding among women at risk.

Keywords

• clinical trial
• medicinal plant
• postpartum bleeding
• postpartum hemorrhage
• risk factors
• sumac