Peppermint Oil for Urinary Retention

Evaluating the Use of Peppermint Oil for Postpartum Women With Urinary Retention

A randomized controlled study will be conducted, with two arms. Postpartum women experiencing urinary retention will be randomized into one of the two following arms:

• Arm 1: Subjects will be exposed to vapor of peppermint oil
• Arm 2: Subjects will be exposed to vapor of placebo (mineral oil) Outcome variables include resolution of urinary retention, time to spontaneous urination, volume of spontaneous urination, frequency of urinary catheterization, and patient satisfaction.

The purpose of the study is to determine if the use of peppermint oil among postpartum women experiencing urinary retention will increase spontaneous urination and decrease the need for catheterization. A randomized controlled study will be conducted, with two arms. Subjects will be randomized into one of the two following arms:

• Arm 1: Subjects will be exposed to vapor of peppermint oil
• Arm 2: Subjects will be exposed to vapor of placebo (mineral oil) Outcome variables include resolution of urinary retention, time to spontaneous urination, volume of spontaneous urination, frequency of urinary catheterization, and patient satisfaction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1. 18 years old or older 2. English speaking 3. Admitted to Bethesda North Mom Baby Unit 4. Postpartum 5. Experiencing urinary retention - defined as meeting at least one of the following criteria:

  • More than 6 hours after delivery or foley catheter removal without being able to spontaneously void
  • Symptomatic urinary retention without being able to spontaneously void
  • Change in fundal height or position without being able to spontaneously void 6. Bladder scan showing bladder containing 400mL or more urine

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Allergy to peppermint
2. Asthma
3. Active herpes lesions
4. Seizure disorder
5. Not able to void in toilet (ex: requiring use of bed pan to void)