Fenugreek oral capsule improves self-reported sleep quality in primiparous postpartum women
In a triple-blind RCT of 60 primiparous women, fenugreek seed extract (700 mg daily) significantly improved PSQI scores compared to placebo at postpartum days 30 and 60 (p<0.001). At day 60, mean PSQI scores were 5.1±1.4 in the fenugreek group vs 8.9±1.5 in the placebo group, after adjusting for baseline differences.
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Fenugreek oral capsule improves self-reported sleep quality in primiparous postpartum women The current body of evidence comprises 1 study, including 1 randomized controlled trial. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 44/100 (low).
The Claim
Fenugreek oral capsule improves self-reported sleep quality in primiparous postpartum women
This conclusion is most relevant to: Primiparous women in the postpartum period attending health centers in Sabzevar, Iran.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸The effect of fenugreek oral capsule on the sleep quality of primiparous women in the postpartum period: a triple‑blind randomized controlled trial. (Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Fenugreek contains compounds with potential sedative and anxiolytic properties
- ▸May modulate neurotransmitter systems involved in sleep regulation
- ▸Could reduce postpartum stress and anxiety, indirectly improving sleep
- ▸Result: Improved self-reported sleep quality scores
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Primiparous women in the postpartum period attending health centers in Sabzevar, Iran
Recommended Dose
700 mg daily
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Baseline sleep quality scores differed significantly between groups, requiring statistical adjustment
- ▸Sleep quality was assessed via self-report (PSQI) without objective measures (e.g., polysomnography)
- ▸Small sample size (n=60) and single-center design may limit generalizability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended dose of fenugreek for postpartum sleep improvement?▼
The study used 700 mg fenugreek seed extract capsule once daily, starting on postpartum day 3-5 and continuing until day 60.
How quickly does fenugreek improve sleep quality in postpartum women?▼
No significant difference was seen at day 15, but significant improvements were observed by day 30 and day 60 postpartum.
Is fenugreek safe for breastfeeding mothers?▼
The study did not report adverse effects, but safety in breastfeeding was not specifically assessed. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
What sleep outcomes were measured in this trial?▼
The primary outcome was sleep quality measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a self-reported questionnaire.
References
- 1.Mohammadi S, Karimi FZ, Salari R, Mazloom SR. “The effect of fenugreek oral capsule on the sleep quality of primiparous women in the postpartum period: a triple‑blind randomized controlled trial..” Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology, 2026. PMID: 42547874 DOI: 10.1186/s40748-026-00281-8