The effect of transversus abdominal plane block on maternal-infant bonding after cesarean delivery: A randomized controlled study.

Abstract

Context: Effective postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery is essential for early functional recovery. Ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block reduces postoperative pain and opioid consumption; however, its effects beyond analgesia remain unclear.

Aims: To evaluate the effects of TAP block on postoperative pain, maternal self-efficacy, and early recovery after elective cesarean delivery.

Settings and design: This prospective randomized study was conducted at a tertiary care center between December 2024 and March 2025.

Materials and methods: Women undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were randomized to receive either bilateral ultrasound-guided TAP block (20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine per side) or standard analgesia. Maternal self-efficacy was assessed at 48 hours postpartum using the Parent Self-efficacy Scale. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores, time to first breastfeeding and mobilization, rescue analgesic use, neonatal caregiving duration within 24 hours, and length of hospital stay.

Statistical analysis used: Appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests were applied, with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of 128 patients completed the study. The TAP block group showed significantly lower pain scores, reduced rescue analgesic requirements, earlier breastfeeding and mobilization, longer neonatal caregiving duration, shorter hospital stay, and higher maternal self-efficacy scores (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided TAP block provides effective analgesia and supports early functional recovery after cesarean delivery, with additional benefits on maternal self-efficacy.