Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of antenatal group exercise therapy on the mode of delivery and maternal health outcomes in pregnant women.
Methods: A total of 50 female participants were enrolled in an antenatal group exercise program from September 2024 to December 2024. All participants were between 17 and 35 years of age, with a mean age of 25.38 years. Participants received one session of antenatal group exercise therapy after 20 weeks of pregnancy, continuing the exercises until delivery. Data on demographic characteristics, exercise frequency, mode of delivery, and post-delivery recovery were collected. Chi-square tests were conducted to assess relationships between exercise frequency, educational level, and mode of delivery.
Results: Among the 50 participants, 70% delivered via normal vaginal delivery, while 30% delivered via Cesarean section. The study found a significant relationship between the frequency of antenatal exercise and the likelihood of normal vaginal delivery (p< 0.01). Women who exercised more frequently (5-6 days per week) had a higher proportion of normal vaginal delivery. There was no statistically significant association between educational level (p = 0.339) or age group (p = 0.274) and mode of delivery. Notably, 18% of participants with a previous Cesarean section were able to deliver vaginally after participating in the exercise program. Most participants (98%) reported no pain during exercises, and 70% resumed walking on the first day after delivery.
Conclusion: Regular antenatal exercise significantly increases the likelihood of normal vaginal delivery, particularly for women who exercise more frequently. The study also suggests that antenatal exercise may provide women with a previous Cesarean section the opportunity to deliver vaginally in subsequent pregnancies. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these findings and explore the broader benefits of antenatal exercise.
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