Postpartum Urinary Retention With Essential Oils (PURE)

Postpartum Urinary Retention With Essential Oils (PURE): A Randomized Control Trial of Essential Oil Vapor to Reduce Urinary Catheterization in Postpartum Women

The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of peppermint oil to promote voiding and reduce urinary catheterization among postpartum women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• postpartum patients at Mount Carmel East, Mount Carmel West, and Mount Carmel St. Ann's Hospital
• 18 years or older
• able to read and understand English
• unable to spontaneously void within 6 hours after vaginal delivery or within 6 hours after straight catheter or within 6 hours after catheter removal for cesarean delivery.

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients who have an allergy to peppermint oil
• patients who have asthma
• patients who report sensitivity to smells
• patients who have a clinical condition which precludes walking/use of standard toilet