Prolonged use of urinary catheter delays mobilization after a cesarean delivery

Abstract Purpose: Cesarean section is the most common surgery performed on women. According to the enhanced recovery recommendation, early urinary catheter removal and early mobilization are essential elements of postoperative care. The issue of catheter therapy length is still controversial but early mobilization is known to improve the overall postoperative recovery. This study aimed to analyze the possible interaction of these elements and whether the use of urinary catheter itself affects the time of postoperative mobilization. Methods: This retrospective case-control study consisted of cases enrolled in a study concerning early post-operative catheter removal (8-12 hours) and the subsequent patients not in the study as their controls. Apart from the time of catheter removal, the routine postoperative care by the same personnel was given without any advice on patient mobilization. Data on patient demographics, surgery details, post-operative medication, first upright mobilization, the length of hospital stay, and patient satisfaction were analyzed. Results: Fifty-two cases and one control for each case comprised the groups. No difference was detected in maternal characteristics or surgical parameters. The regression analysis showed that the length of the catheter therapy was significantly associated with the time of patient mobilization. The need for additional opioid medication in the groups was equal. No difference was detected in the length of hospital stay or patient satisfaction index. Conclusion: The duration of catheter therapy significantly impacts the timing of postoperative mobilization. It is crucial to understand this relationship and support optimal recovery by avoiding the unwarranted prolongation of catheter therapy after cesarean.