Standardized senna in the management of constipation in the puerperium: A clinical trial

Shelton et al., 1980 | S Afr Med J | Rct

Citation

Shelton M G. Standardized senna in the management of constipation in the puerperium: A clinical trial. S Afr Med J. 1980-Jan-19;57(3):78-80

Abstract

Successful treatment of constipation in the immediate postpartum period in 93% of White patients and 96% of Coloured patients was achieved in a clinical trial of standardized senna tablets (Senokot; Reckitt & Colman). This is significantly better than the success rates of 51% and 59% achieved in White and Coloured controls treated with a placebo. Minor abdominal cramps occurred in some 13% of the patients treated with standardized senna, and in 4% of the controls given the placebo. There is no evidence to suggest that standardized senna has any effect whatsoever on a breast-fed baby if taken by the mother.

Key Findings

There is no evidence to suggest that standardized senna has any effect whatsoever on a breast-fed baby if taken by the mother.

Outcomes Measured

Requires manual extraction

Population

Field	Value
Population	See abstract
Sample Size	See abstract
Age Range	See abstract
Condition	See abstract

MeSH Terms

Adult
Breast Feeding
Clinical Trials as Topic
Constipation
Diarrhea, Infantile
Double-Blind Method
Female
Humans
Pregnancy
Puerperal Disorders
Senna Extract

Evidence Classification

Level: Rct
Publication Types: Clinical Trial, Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial
Vertical: senna

Provenance

PMID: 6996138
DOI: (not available)
PMCID: Not in PMC
Verified: 2026-04-12 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-12