Effect of Dry Cupping in Treatment of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy

Aims: This study was conducted to detect the impact of dry cupping therapy on acupuncture point P6 in alleviating nausea and vomiting symptoms during pregnancy.

Study Design: Randomized control trial.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Outpatient Clinic of Obstetrics Department at Sidi Salm Hospital from March, 2016 to January, 2017.

Methodology: Randomized controlled study, 30 pregnant females, their age ranged from (18-30) years, 7- 14 weeks of gestation and their body mass index not exceeds 30 kg/m2. They were randomly divided in to two equal groups (A & B). Both groups were advised to change their life style, divided their diet on five or six meals, avoid spicy or fatty food and advised to take vitamin B6 tablet once daily. In addition to dry cupping on acupuncture point P6 in group A. Both groups were evaluated by pregnancy unique qualification of emesis and nausea questionnaire (PUQE) at the beginning of the study and after 2 weeks.

Results: There was significant reduction in frequency of nausea and vomiting between both groups at post treatment (p<0.05) and this significant reduction in favor to group A. Also there was improvement in the quality of life between both groups at post treatment (p<0.05) and this significant increase in favor to group A.

Conclusion: Dry cupping on acupuncture point p6 is a simple, safe and easy method used in treatment of nausea and vomiting symptoms during pregnancy.