Research published in the American Journal of Rhinology, the leading medical journal dedicated to nose and sinus problems, found that Breathe Right® nasal strips helped women breathe easier during labor and delivery. These popular external nasal strips -- frequently used by athletes and consumers alike to relieve nasal congestion and alleviate snoring -- were found to significantly enhance the quality of breathing during labor among the pregnant women participating in the study.
Much like sports, labor is extremely physical, and respiration plays a crucial role, according to co-author Dr. Yehudah Roth, Director of the Institute of Nose and Sinus Therapy and Clinical Investigations, and Chairman of the Otolaryngology Department at the Edith Wolfson Medical Center in Israel. The study demonstrated for the first time that by lowering airway resistance, regardless of the breathing pattern, one may be assisted during labor. The study reported higher satisfaction for the 90 women using the Breathe Right® nasal strips with no side effects for mother or child.
"This is one of the few studies conducted on the nose during pregnancy and labor, when major hormonal changes influence regular physiology, including breathing," Roth said. "I'm glad we were able to improve the ease of breathing throughout the process of active labor without any medication by a simple and safe device."
Co-author Dr. Oscar Sadan, Head of the Labor Ward at the Edith Wolfson Medical Center, said the positive findings have made Breathe Right® nasal strips a routine recommendation for all women preparing for childbirth at the hospital. He said some of the women who participated in the study have returned for another birth and have insisted on using the strips again.
Breathe Right® nasal strips are the #1 drug free nasal congestion remedy in the U.S., according to A.C. Nielsen. They provide instant relief from nasal congestion due to colds or allergies and reduce snoring by gently lifting and opening nasal passages -- reducing nasal breathing resistance by more than 30 percent.
"It's great to see that same nasal strip technology that has helped athletes breathe better and recuperate faster during training and competition for years, is proving to help out in the delivery room as well," said Leah Stevenson, Director of Marketing Services for CNS, Inc., makers of the strips. "Breathe Right® nasal strips can help anyone breathe better and feel better, whether they're suffering from a cold or allergies, looking to stop snoring, participating in sports, and even during child birth."
For more information about Breathe Right products, visit http://www.breatheright.com.