The Effect of Using Chlorhexidine Gluconate and Povidone Iodine Solution on the Healing Process Before a Cesarean Section

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the effect of povidone iodine (PI) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) shower groups on the healing process in cesarean section operations.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Methods: Patients were recruited from Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital in Turkey between February and May 2021. In total, 102 pregnant women were scheduled for elective cesareans. They were randomly divided into PI group (A), CG group (B), and CG shower group (C) operated by three gynecology and obstetrics physicians. During the data collection, a demographics form, an incision site evaluation form, a visual analog scale (VAS), and a postpartum comfort questionnaire (PPCQ) were used. Data from the in-house blinding study to avoid bias and follow-up of the women were done for 7-day duration following postnatal to assess postoperative comfort, pain, and wound complications.

Findings: The VAS, pain, erythema, warm, edema, discharge, and wound opening were statistically evaluated at the incision site with 3 measurements for each of the groups. There was a significant difference in the CG groups (2 and 3) (VAS P < .000, erythema P < .05, and edema P < .05). The mean PPCQ score was higher in the CG groups (2 and 3) and showed a significant difference compared with the PI group (P < .000).

Conclusions: Due to the antiseptic and nonirritating properties of CG, showering 6 hours before the operation contributed to the wound healing process according to the incision site evaluation form and to a corresponding increased PPCQ level of the mother in the postoperative period.