Effect of Dill (Anethum graveolens Linn.) seed on uterus contractions pattern in active phase of labor

Dill is herbaceous and aromatic herb used in order to convenient and shorter labor in Iran. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Dill seed on uterus contractions in active phase of labor. In this historical cohort study, 40 women used Dill seed infusion in the case group and 60 women used nothing in the control group. Interpretable electronic fetal monitoring was obtained for half an hour at the beginning of the active phase. The Fall: Rise ratio was calculated by measuring the duration of time for a contraction to return to its baseline from its peak (fall) divided to the duration of its rise time to its peak (rise). The number of contractions in the case group was significantly more than the control group. The ratio of contraction's fall time to its rise time in the case group was shorter than the control group. The study showed that Dill seed shortens duration of the first stage of labor. Since there is not enough information about correct amount and time for consuming this herb, more complete studies are needed.