Evaluation of the Effect of Rosa damascena Mill. Product on Constipation During Pregnancy: A Single-Arm Clinical Trial

Constipation is one of the most common issues at the time of pregnancy. Traditional Persian medicine (TPM) has always emphasized the use of safe laxatives to relieve constipation during pregnancy.The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Rosa damascena Mill. products on constipation and the quality of life during pregnancy.

This is a single-arm clinical trial study on 35 pregnant women (14-34 weeks) with constipation diagnosed on the basis of Rome IV criteria in Tehran and Qom, Iran during 2018-2019. The consumption of R. damascena products was recommended daily for 4 weeks. Then, the severity of constipation and the quality of life were assessed via the Rome IV criteria and the World Health Organization (WHO) quality of life questionnaires (WHOQOL-BREF), respectively.

This study was performed on 35 pregnant women (14-34 weeks). The consumption of R. damascena products decreased the score of Rome IV criteria (Mean9.4 to 1.1) while increasing the frequency of bowel movements and improving the overall quality of life (P<0.001). The predominant constipation signs, including straining, lumpy and hard stools, a sensation of incomplete evacuation, a sensation of anorectal obstruction, manual facilitation maneuvers, and less than 3 spontaneous bowel movements per week significantly improved after the consumption of R. damascena products (P<0.001).

Rosa damascena products can effectively treat constipation and enhance the quality of life