The effects of aromatherapy on anxiety and sleep quality in maternal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

This study aims to conduct a systematic review of the efficacy of aromatherapy in treating maternal anxiety and improving sleep quality during pregnancy and postpartum, thereby providing scientific evidence for clinical practice.

Methods

We searched databases including PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase from their inception to October 2025, identifying 13 eligible studies. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.0.

Results

Aromatherapy improved anxiety levels [SMD = -0.4, 95% CI (-0.68, -0.14), p = 0.002, I ² = 63.8] and enhanced sleep quality [SMD = -0.59, 95% CI (-0.98, -0.21), p = 0.002, I ² = 88.

SUBMITTER: Wang Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12698402 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature