Abstract

Background: Antenatal physiotherapy plays a key role in the health of the fetus and the pregnant woman. Awareness regarding the same is very important to motivate women to attend antenatal classes.Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge of antenatal physiotherapy as well as an insight into the attitude and perception of the same among pregnant women of Ahmedabad.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a semi-government hospital. A total of 100 pregnant women, in any trimester were approached with a self-administered multiple choice questionnaire. Questions regarding their knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding antenatal physiotherapy were asked. Descriptive analysis of data obtained was done.
Results: Knowledge regarding antenatal exercises was fairly low. A large number of subject population (91%, n = 91) was aware of the role of physiotherapy in general health and well-being. A sufficient number of subjects (59%, n = 59) were informed regarding the uses of physiotherapy in backache. However, only 2% of the population was familiar with the role of pelvic floor muscle strengthening in urinary incontinence. The attitude of the patients toward antenatal physiotherapy was favorable (72%, n = 72), whereas the attitude toward postnatal physiotherapy was comparatively less favorable (39%, n = 39). The perception of physiotherapy was restricted to exercises (88%, n = 88), massage (63%, n = 63), and hot water fomentation (18%, n = 18).Conclusion: Knowledge and perception regarding antenatal physiotherapy were fairly low, but the attitude of the patients was favorable.