Comparing the effects of indomethacin suppository and mefenamic acid capsule on post episiotomy pain

Background: Post episiotomy pain affects a large number of women after the delivery. The common method for pain relief is using oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Considering the side effects of these medicines, the aim of present study was to compare the effects of indomethacin suppository and mefenamic acid capsule on post episiotomy pain.

Methods: In a clinical trial study, sixty women with singleton pregnancy and 38-42 weeks of gestation who had episiotomy were randomly assigned into two groups of receiving indomethacin suppository or mefenamic acid capsule. Data collection was performed by questionnaire and visual analog scale (VAS). The intensity of pain was compared with the first compliant of mother and 6, 12 and 24 hours after the delivery.

Results: The individual characteristics had not a significant difference between two groups. In indomethacin group, there was a significant difference in the severity of pain with first compliant and 6 (P<0.001), 12 (P<0.001) and 24 (P=0.02) hours after the delivery. In mefenamic acid receiving group, also a significant difference was found in the intensity of pain with first compliant and 6 (P<0.001), 12 (P<0.001) and 24 (P=0.01) after the delivery. In comparing the mean severity of pain in two groups, there was not a significant difference.

Conclusion: The effects of indomethacin suppository and mefenamic acid capsule on the relief of post episiotomy pain were similar. The indomethacin suppository is a suitable alternative for mefenamic acid capsule for the relief of post episiotomy pain.